I would like to add our experiences to the loo roll debate. Until recently we have generally struggled to grow parsnips successfully, finding germination when sown outside very erratic. We have tried germinating the seed on damp kitchen roll but found that more often than not that the tap root broke when potting on. Last year we sowed them directly into compost-filled loo rolls and had nearly 100% success with germination. When the tap root reached the bottom of the roll, they were planted out roll and all. They look to be the strongest and best parsnips we have ever grown! We will certainly use this method with the salsify seeds that came with the magazine. I would support Helen Hicks when she suggests that this method of sowing is best suited to deep-rooted plants, especially where we are in the dry south-east. For most other sowings we reuse plastic pots and trays until they fall apart!