Plant Description When to Plant Maintenance Harvest Uses How to Store Quick Facts Getting Started Companion / Enemy Plants Attractants/Repellents Where to Plant Grow Guide to Parsley Petroselinum crispum
Plant Description 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 Parsley
~70% Germination Rate Full Sun to Partial Shade Sun Requirements Biennial Plant Type 70-90 Days Days to Harvest 3-4 Seeds per Hole 14-28 Days Days to Sprout 6-8“ Plant Spacing 1/4" Planting Depth Quick Facts
Best Planting Locations Ideal for small herbs, providing adequate sunlight. Windowsills Grow lights and hydroponic systems ensure optimal growth conditions year-round. Indoor Gardens Raised Beds Excellent for outdoor growth with good drainage and soil conditions. Containers Patios or hanging baskets, allowing easy mobility and a controlled growing environment.
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. 2. Prep the Soil & Fertilizer 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. Plant 3-4 seeds or 1 seedling 1/4 inch deep in pots or the ground. Space seedlings or plants about 6-8 inches apart to provide enough room for their bushy growth. 3. Plant the Seeds Getting Started
Cilantro, Dill & Mint: Cross-pollination can lead to undesirable results Enemy Plants Attractants Bees: Attracted to its nectar Butterflies: Attracted to its nectar Companion Plants Asparagus: Deters asparagus beetles and stimulates foliage growth in asparagus Basil: Both herbs benefit from similar growing conditions and can repel pests from each other Chives: They help deter pests and enhance the overall health of parsley Rose: Deters pests and is believed to enhance the scent of rose flower Tomato: Repels tomato hornworms and attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies that feed on aphids
Zone 7: February (indoors), March (outdoors) Zone 8: December (indoors), February (outdoors) Zone 9: December (indoors), February (outdoors) Zone 10: January (outdoors) Zone 3: March (indoors), April (outdoors) Zone 4: March (indoors), April (outdoors) Zone 6: February (indoors), March (outdoors) Zone 5: February (indoors), March (outdoors) Best Time to Plant USDA Hardiness Zones
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. Day to Day Maintenance
Extra Tip For the best flavor, harvest parsley in the morning when the plant's essential oils are most concentrated. 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.
Favorite Uses Sauce Soup Grilled Meats Salads
Method: Keep parsley in an airtight container or a sealed bag with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. This method is suitable for short-term storage when refrigerator space is limited. Location: Store in a cool, dark cupboard Duration: Several Days Cool, Dark Cupboard 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. Location: Store in the refrigerator Duration: Up to Two Weeks Refrigeration 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. Location: Store in the freezer Duration: Several months Freezing 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. Location: Keep on a countertop away from direct sunlight Duration: Up to One Week Room Temperature How to Store
Breath Freshener Chewing on parsley can help freshen your breath. This is because it contains high levels of chlorophyll, which is a natural deodorizer. 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. Fun Facts Grows as a Biennial Butterfly Attraction 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. Parsley is a host plant for the larvae of the black swallowtail butterfly. Planting parsley in your garden can help attract these beautiful butterflies.