parsnips

Question

Why do my parsnips look like bulbs with so many roots on them? They taste the same but look like aliens! And some of them get long but turn up and are twisted.

Answer 1

This happens in "tough" soil. If your soil is rocky or clay heavy, the roots will grow into the soft areas of the soil, around the rocks and lumps of clay. This results in some pretty twisted and unusual looking roots. Removing rocks and adding additional compost or peat will help to soften the soil and produce a more uniform shaped roots.