GROW GUIDE

Italian Flat Leaf Parsley

Petroselinum crispum

Plant Description

Italian Flat Leaf Parsley

A vibrant herb recognized by its flat, dark green leaves that extend from slender stems.

As a member of the carrot family, it is noted for its bright, refreshing flavor that brings a balanced bitterness to both classic and modern recipes.

Gardening Level: easy

Quick Facts:

  • Sun Requirements

    Full Sun to Partial Shade

  • Days To Sprout

    14-28 Days

  • Days To Harvest

    70-90 Days

  • Plant Spacing

    6-8"

  • Seeds Per Hole

    3

  • Planting Depth

    1/4"

Best Planting Locations

  • Windowsills

    Ideal for small herbs, providing adequate sunlight.

  • Raised Beds

    Excellent for outdoor growth with good drainage and soil conditions.

  • Indoor Gardens

    Grow lights and hydroponic systems ensure optimal growth conditions year-round.

  • Containers

    Patios or hanging baskets, allowing easy mobility and a controlled growing environment.

Getting Started

  • 1

    Find the Spot

    Parsley thrives in cool, partial shade. Choose a planting spot that enjoys morning sunlight but is shielded from the harsh afternoon rays, receiving about 4-6 hours of light each day. If growing indoors, an east-facing window that offers gentle morning light is perfect.

  • 2

    Prep the Soil & Fertilizer

    Use well-draining, rich soil. Parsley prefers a nutrient-dense environment, so mix in plenty of organic compost before planting or apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer for optimal growth.

  • 3

    Plant the Seeds

    Before planting, pour warm water over the seeds and let them soak for 24 hours. Discard any seeds that float to the top.

    Plant 3 seeds or 1 seedling 1/4 inch deep in pots or the ground. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, during germination.

    Aim for a soil temperature between 70° to 80°F. Space seedlings or plants about 6-8 inches apart to provide enough room for their bushy growth.

Good Neighbors:

  • Basil:

    Both herbs benefit from similar growing conditions and can repel pests from each other

  • Chives:

    Help deter pests and enhance the overall health of parsley

  • Tomato:

    Parsley repels tomato hornworms and attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies that feed on aphids

  • Asparagus:

    Parsley deters asparagus beetles and stimulates foliage growth in asparagus

  • Rose:

    Parsley deters pests and is believed to enhance the scent of rose flower

Enemy Plants:

  • Dill & Mint:

    Cross-pollination can lead to undesirable results

Attractants:

  • Butterflies & Bees:

    Attracted to parsley's nectar

Repellents:

  • Asparagus Beetle

    Repelled by parsley's aroma

Best Time to Plant

USDA Hardiness Zones

Day to Day Maintenance

  • Watering

    Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, as parsley thrives in damp conditions. Be cautious not to overwater, as standing water can lead to root rot.

  • Pruning

    Parsley does not typically require pruning, but you can trim any overgrown or yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy and tidy.

The Harvest

  • Gathering

    Snip leaves as needed from the outside of the plant. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and can increase yield throughout the season.

  • Extra Tip

    For the best flavor, harvest parsley in the morning when the plant's essential oils are most concentrated.

Favorite Uses

  • Sauces

  • Soup

  • Grilled Meat

  • Salad

  • Garnish

How to Store

  • Room Temperature

    • Duration: One week
    • Location: Keep on a countertop away from direct sunlight
    • Method: Treat parsley like cut flowers. Trim the stems slightly and place them in a glass or jar of water, ensuring no leaves are submerged to prevent rotting. Change the water every few days.

  • Refrigeration

    • Duration: Up to two weeks
    • Location: Store in the refrigerator
    • Method: Wrap parsley leaves gently in a damp paper towel to maintain moisture but prevent the leaves from getting wet and soggy. Place the wrapped leaves in a plastic bag or an airtight container.

  • Freezing

    • Duration: Several months
    • Location: Store in the freezer
    • Method: Chop fresh parsley and mix with water, then freeze in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container for easy use in cooking.

  • Drying

    • Duration: One year
    • Location: Warm, dry, and well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight
    • Method: Hang bunches of parsley upside down or use a food dehydrator set to a low

Fun Facts

  • Rich in Nutrients:

    Parsley is highly nutritious—it's packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and contains antioxidants and minerals like iron and potassium. It's more than just a garnish; it's a boost to your diet.

  • Breath Freshener

    Chewing on parsley can help freshen your breath. This is because it contains high levels of chlorophyll, which is a natural deodorizer.

  • Grows as a Biennial

    Although often grown as an annual, parsley is actually a biennial plant. This means it completes its life cycle over two years, flowering and seeding in the second year.

  • Butterfly Attraction

    Parsley is a host plant for the larvae of the black swallowtail butterfly. Planting parsley in your garden can help attract these beautiful butterflies.