Better growing conditions in Michigan have made for yields this season that are superior to those from the previous year.“Yields improved by 15 percent or so,” said Steven Defouw of VanSingel Farms. “Last year was not a very good year for yields, but this year was much better.” Planting is done in April and harvesting takes place in October. Some growers can get their fall crop harvested in a few weeks, though Defouw said others can take up to six weeks. Another harvest takes place in spring after the first thaw.
“Quality is much better this year,” said Defouw. “The parsnips are smoother, straighter and there's less size variation.” Michigan's soil also contributes to the quality of parsnips from the state, but, even for high-quality product, prices are low.
“Some of the marketing practices are iffy,” said Defouw, “and some people are selling too cheap.”
For more information:
Steven Defouw
VanSingel Farms
+1 231 834 5617