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| 1/4" Deep | 9-12" Apart | 21 Days | 70° F | Spring | Partial shade, full sun | Rich and moist | Asparagus, carrot, chives, onions, roses and tomatoes | 75 |
Growing parsley at home is easier than you might think, and fresh homegrown parsley beats store-bought every time. Whether you're planting from seeds or seedlings, this leafy herb thrives in most gardens with just a bit of attention to the basics.
Choose Your Growing Location
Parsley loves sunlight. Pick a spot in your garden that gets at least 6 hours of direct sun daily—more is even better. If you live in a very hot climate, afternoon shade can help prevent the plant from bolting too quickly. Parsley also grows well in containers on a sunny porch or windowsill, making it perfect for apartment gardeners.
Prepare Rich, Well-Draining Soil
Parsley isn't overly fussy, but it prefers soil that's rich in organic matter and drains well. Mix compost or aged manure into your garden bed before planting. If growing in a pot, use a quality potting mix combined with compost. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged—wet soil can lead to root rot.
Plant Seeds or Seedlings
Parsley seeds germinate slowly, sometimes taking 2-3 weeks. Soak seeds in warm water for a few hours before planting to speed things up. Plant seeds directly in the garden about half an inch deep, or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost. If you prefer faster results, buy seedlings from a nursery and transplant them into your prepared bed.
Water Consistently
Keep the soil evenly moist, especially while your parsley is young. Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to reduce disease risk. Once established, parsley is fairly drought-tolerant, but regular watering produces the most tender, flavorful leaves.
Harvest Regularly to Encourage Growth
Once your parsley is 6-8 inches tall, you can start harvesting. Pinch off the outer stems first, leaving the inner growth to continue. Regular harvesting actually encourages bushier, fuller plants. You can harvest parsley continuously throughout the growing season, and in milder climates, it may produce year-round.
Watch for Common Issues
Parsley is generally pest-resistant, though it occasionally attracts parsley worms (the caterpillars of swallowtail butterflies). If you spot them, simply remove them by hand—or leave a few if you don't mind supporting local butterflies. Fungal diseases can develop in humid conditions, so ensure good air circulation around your plants.
With these simple steps, you'll have a steady supply of fresh parsley for cooking, garnishing, and flavor. Happy growing!
