Planting and Growing Guide for Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Description
Parsley, also known as curly leaf Parsley, or Italian or flat leaf Parsley is a versatile annual herb that is easily to grow in pots or in your herb garden patch. It grows easily from seed, and self sows, but quickly shoots to flower in warm weather. When this occurs the leaves are less tasty. Plant seed in batches so you can continuously harvest the leaves before they bolt to seed. It grows well in pots. It reaches maturity in about 8 weeks after sowing in warm weather. Plants can get quite large. After the flower heads appear, the plant will stop producing more leaves. Harvesting the leaves from the outer part of the plant delays the onset of flowering. Sow Parsley seed in small batches, several weeks apart for a continuous supply of leaves. It also self-seeds easily and can tolerate light frosts.
Parsley leaves are a classic herb, widely used as a fresh herb in salads and as a leafy green. It is also widely used in meat dishes and for making a white sauce. It is a favorite for fish and seafood dishes and for making ratatouille and many Italian dishes. It is widely used to make sauces and salad dressings.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Plant seed directly into the garden or in pots at a depth of about 5-10 mm (1/4 inch). Seeds take a long time to germinate (3-5 weeks) and so be patient. Can be grown in deep seed trays or small pots and transplanted, but best sown into garden beds.
Space between plants: Space plants about 20-30 cm (9-12 inches) apart.
Harvest Time: Harvest in 8-12 weeks. Leaves can be harvested as the plant grows by cutting stalks off from outer part of plant.
Hints:
- Does best in full sun in cooler areas, but can grow in partially shaded areas
- Plant the seeds in late Spring to early Summer, after the weather is warmer
- Parsley does not transplant very well, so plant the seeds directly into the garden
- Water frequently and cover the soil around the plant base with mulch to control weeds
- Can survive light frosts and snow if covered with compost or straw
- Keep the plants growing vigorously with regular watering and feeding to increase yield and to ensure the leaves have that special zest and zing
- Does best in deep, rich, well-drained soil with neutral to slightly acid pH
- Self sows easily and so you can have Parsley patch in your Herb patch that looks after itself from year to year
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!