Parsnips
Parsnips are a minor crop in New York, but can be found at farmer's markets and retail stands. They are harvested in April and May or from October through December. Parsnips can be stored over the winter and are a good crop for winter farmers markets. Parsnips are a member of the Apiaceae or carrot family. They are grown much the same way as are carrots and are susceptible to many of the same diseases and insects. Like carrots they require a deep, well-drained soil. They can be grown on either mineral or muck soils.A good summary of parsnip production can be found at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs website.
Relevant Events
Pest Management for Small-Scale Growers
July 23, 2026
Rochester, NY
Vegetable Pest and Cultural Management Field Meeting for Auction Growers -- Ontario
July 28, 2026
Canandaigua, NY
Vegetable Pest and Cultural Management Field Meeting for Auction Growers -- Seneca
July 29, 2026
Romulus, NY
Vegetable Pest and Cultural Management Field Meeting for Auction Growers -- Yates
July 31, 2026
Himrod, NY
Video: New York State Produce Auctions
Currently, there are 11 produce auctions in New York State. These auctions are aggregation points that allow local farmers to sell their produce in wholesale lots to buyers from across the region. To document the economic impact of produce auctions on agriculture, local businesses, family farms, and produce buyers, the Cornell Vegetable Program worked with Harvest New York to survey top sellers and buyers.
A new Cornell Vegetable Program video shares general information about produce auctions, how buyers and sellers use the auctions to expand their businesses, and how local communities benefit from them.
Crop Cooling and Storage
Robert Hadad, Extension Vegetable Specialist
Cornell Vegetable Program
On-Farm Cold Storage of Fall-Harvested Fruit and Vegetable Crops is an in-depth look at the planning and designing cooling for late season and winter storage but it also is useful for general cooling as well. This was written by Scott Sanford, Distinguished Outreach Specialist, UW-Extension, and John Hendrickson, Outreach Program Manager, Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
O-zone Injury on Vegetables
Crystal Stewart-Courtens, Extension Vegetable Specialist
Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture
Hot, humid weather with stagnant air masses may lead to ozone damage on crops. Ozone warnings were recently issued for much of New York. These warnings are intended for people with respiratory problems and let them know they should limit their outdoor activity and try to stay as much as possible in air-conditioned locations. These warning are also a good indicator that ozone damage may occur in plants.

Upcoming Events
Pest Management for Small-Scale Growers
July 23, 2026
Rochester, NY
Join us for a hands-on field day exploring integrated pest management tools for small-scale growing spaces and the opportunity to build community with local growers! Learn the best practices for using row covers, biocontrols, trapping, and more.
Vegetable Pest and Cultural Management Field Meeting for Auction Growers -- Ontario
July 28, 2026
Canandaigua, NY
A field walk will demonstrate pest management in fresh market vegetables in both field and greenhouse (high tunnel) vegetables, primarily for those growing for wholesale auction. CCE Cornell Vegetable Program Specialist Judson Reid will identify weeds, insects and diseases in vegetables and will go over management options such as inter-row cover crops, grafting, and where appropriate, spray options.
DEC recertification credits available: 2.0 in categories 10, 1a, 23 and 24.
Vegetable Pest and Cultural Management Field Meeting for Auction Growers -- Seneca
July 29, 2026
Romulus, NY
A field walk will demonstrate pest management in fresh market vegetables in both field and greenhouse (high tunnel) vegetables, primarily for those growing for wholesale auction. CCE Cornell Vegetable Program Specialist Judson Reid will identify weeds, insects and diseases in vegetables and will go over management options such as inter-row cover crops, grafting, and where appropriate, spray options.
DEC recertification credits available: 2.0 in categories 10, 1a, 23 and 24.