Want to Know How to Grow Parsley?
Here Are Some Tips

Why should you need to know how to grow parsley? Well... as it's the world’s most popular herb, growing it yourself is a great way to add fresh herbs to any garden. 

Not only is it attractive, and fairly easy to grow, but with its multitude of uses, its rich vitamins and many health benefits, this herb is a must for any kitchen and herb garden.

Tips & Advice on Growing Parsley Plants

The most common varieties are either the flat leaved or curly leaf parsley.
Read more about curly leaf.

And depending on the climate where you live, for two harvests, the best times to sow the seeds are once in the spring (indoors) and again in the summer (indoors or out).

As it requires warm temperatures for germination, it’s usually a good idea to start the seeds inside in a warm place.

The germination period can take 2-3 weeks if you use a propagator set at 18-20°C (65-68°F) or 4-6 weeks if you don't.

How to Grow Parsley Indoors:

• Soak seeds in warm water overnight (speeds up germination)
• Plant seeds in individual pots or plugs. Do NOT use seed trays
• Grow inside for 6-8 weeks or until the seedlings are about 3 inches high
• Plant outside into a prepared area after the risk of frost has passed (see below)

How to Grow Parsley Outdoors:

In general, the parsley plant likes a sheltered spot, well-draining soil and plenty of light.

• After the last frost plant out any seedlings you grew indoors or any purchased young plants 8-10 inches (20-25cm) apart
• If you’re sowing your parsley seeds directly outside in the spring, prepare drills 12-18 inches apart
• Sow and cover the seeds with about half an inch (1½cm) of general potting compost
• Keep the soil moist whilst waiting for the slow germinating seedlings to appear
• When the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin out to about 8-10 inches (20-25cm) apart
• Water the plants frequently during hot weather
• Adding mulch to the soil can help reduce moisture loss. Mulch also helps protect the plants from the cold

Harvesting Parsley:

Just pick the fresh leaves when you need them. When you’re harvesting, cut the outermost stalks just above the ground to encourage further growth. Having a few plants will ensure you do not overpick.

If you've grown Hamburg parsley, dig up the roots in late autumn.

At the end of the season, it is possible to dig up your plants and bring them inside and harvest over winter, it does well in deep pots on a sunny kitchen windowsill.

Notes: If you make 2 sowings, one in the spring and one in mid summer, you'll be able to harvest all through the season for cooking.

You can also make a drink from the leaves. Click for a parsley tea recipe.

To return to the main how to grow herbs page, click here.

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