The Gardeners Guide

Parsley Care: Planting, Growing, and Harvesting Parsley

Parsley, often regarded as a simple garnish or an afterthought in culinary preparations, is actually a versatile and nutrient-dense herb with a rich history. This green leafy plant belongs to the Apiaceae family and is native to the Mediterranean region.

With its vibrant green leaves and distinct flavor, is not only a versatile ingredient in the kitchen but also has a wide range of medical uses and health benefits. It is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and folate, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. Not only does this flavorful herb add a refreshing taste to dishes, but it also boasts antioxidant properties that may promote heart health and reduce inflammation. In addition to being packed with nutrients, parsley is low in calories and carbohydrates. Making it a popular choice for those watching their waistline.

Aside from its nutritional value, parsley can be easily grown. It is very adaptable to both in or outdoors in the gardens. It’s best harvested when they are young for maximum flavor intensity. However, even mature parsley leaves can be used when finely chopped or cooked.

Planting

• It is best to sow parsley seeds directly in the ground around 2-3 weeks before the last frost date. This will give them enough time to establish themselves before the hot summer months arrive. Alternatively, you can start the seeds indoors in peat pots and transplant them after the danger of frost has passed.
• Parsley loves full sun or partial shade. However, it does not tolerate intense heat very well, so providing some shade during the hottest part of the day may be necessary. If you are growing it indoors, place it near a bright window or use grow lights for optimal growth.
• When planting parsley, give each plant about 6 to 8 inches of space between each other. This ensures that they have enough room for their roots to grow and spread out without competing with neighboring plants.
• Avoid planting parsley in extremely hot weather as it can cause stress or even lead to bolting (premature flowering). Additionally, it is important to note that parsley has a slow germination process, so avoid planting too late into summer.

Growing

• In order to ensure healthy growth and development, it is crucial to water your parsley seedlings regularly. While they do require consistent watering, it’s important to strike a balance and avoid over-watering. Over watering can lead to root rot. Aim for moist soil, but not soggy or waterlogged conditions.
• After ensuring your seedlings have reached a suitable size (around 3-4 inches), you can transplant them into larger pots or directly into the ground. When planting, make sure to space them at least 6-8 inches apart from each other. This will allow enough room for each plant’s roots to spread out and prevent overcrowding.
• Once you have planted your parsley seedlings, be sure to continue providing them with adequate water. Newly transplanted seedlings may require more frequent watering until they establish their root systems in their new environment. Keep an eye on the soil moisture levels and adjust your watering routine accordingly.
• As your parsley plants start growing, it’s essential to thin them out if they become too crowded. This process involves selectively removing weaker or excess seedlings from a cluster. It will provide the remaining ones ample space for optimal growth.
• When parsley reaches maturity, its watering needs change slightly compared to when it was still a young seedling. At this stage, you want to make sure the soil remains consistently moist but not overly saturated.

Remember: Download our Fact Sheet Below!

You’ll be able to refer to this reference whenever you need to look up the ideal growing conditions. 

Recommended Varieties

When it comes to choosing parsley varieties for your garden, there are a few standouts that are definitely worth considering.

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Italian flat-leaf parsley

This particular variety is known for its robust flavor and is often considered the preferred choice for culinary use. Its broad leaves make it easy to chop and add to dishes like soups, stews, and salads. Plus, Italian flat-leaf parsley offers a slightly more intense flavor than curly leaf parsley.

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Moss Curled parsley

Features deeply curled leaves that make an attractive addition to any garden bed or container. This variety not only adds visual interest with its lush green foliage but also offers a milder flavor compared to Italian flat-leaf parsley. Moss Curled parsley works well as both a garnish and an ingredient in various dishes.

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Rooted Hamburg

Also referred to as turnip-rooted or root parsley. This unique variety has a flavorful white root that can be harvested and used similarly to carrots or parsnips. The young leaves of Hamburg Parsley can also be enjoyed raw in salads or cooked into soups and sauces alongside the flavorful root. Adding this versatile option will provide you with a distinct flavor profile in your cooking endeavors.

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Harvesting

• Parsley can be harvested once the plant has reached about 6 inches in height. It’s important to wait until it has established a good amount of foliage before harvesting. This will ensure that the plant will continue to grow and produce more leaves.
• Harvesting can be done throughout the growing season, from spring through fall. However, it’s best to avoid harvesting too much at once, as parsley needs time to recover and regrow.
• You’ll know that parsley is ready for harvest when the leaves are lush and vibrant green. The leaves should also have a strong aroma when crushed or rubbed between your fingers.
• Avoid harvesting parsley that has started to bolt or flower. This indicates that the plant is reaching the end of its life cycle.
• To harvest parsley, simply snip off individual stems or branches from the outer edges of the plant using sharp scissors or pruning shears.
• Be sure not to cut off more than one-third of the plant at a time. Cutting more can stress it out and hinder future growth.
• Freshly harvested parsley can be stored in a few different ways depending on how you plan on using it.
• For short-term storage, place washed and dried parsley in a plastic bag with some air holes poked into it before storing in the refrigerator. This method allows moisture to escape while keeping the herb fresh for up to a week.

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Interesting facts

Parsley, often seen as a mere garnish on our plates, has a flavor profile that is quite unique. Describing the taste of parsley can be elusive. Some say it is mildly bitter with hints of earthiness. While others compare it to fresh grass or even slightly peppery. This diversity in description could be attributed to the fact that parsley’s taste can vary depending on various factors like soil condition and maturity.

Despite its many benefits, parsley can also be toxic when consumed in excessive amounts. The compound responsible for this is called apiol. Apiol can interfere with certain enzymes and molecules in the body if consumed in large quantities. Symptoms of parsley poisoning include stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and even kidney or liver damage. Use parsley in moderation and avoid consuming large quantities of the herb to prevent any adverse effects on your health.

Behind its culinary and medical uses lies an interesting history associated with symbolism and hidden mysteries. In ancient Greece, parsley was believed to have sprung from the blood of the mythical hero Archemorus. This connection led to its association with funerals and death rituals among Greeks and Romans. On the other hand, in medieval Europe, parsley was thought to have magical properties such as warding off evil spirits and bringing good luck. These diverse beliefs highlight how this humble herb has been woven into various cultures throughout history.

Pest and Diseases:

• Aphids: These small insects can infest parsley plants, sucking the sap and inhibiting growth. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or a homemade solution of water and dish soap to spray on the affected areas.
• Cabbage Loopers: These green caterpillars can chew through parsley leaves, leaving behind unsightly holes. Handpicking them off the plants is an effective method of control. Alternatively, you can attract natural predators like birds or introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs to your garden to keep these pests in check.
• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease manifests as a white, powdery substance coating the leaves of parsley plants. It thrives in humid conditions and can hinder photosynthesis, leading to stunted growth. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure proper air circulation around your plants by spacing them adequately apart.
• Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-drained soil can result in root rot in parsley plants. This condition causes the roots to become slimy and decayed, ultimately resulting in plant death. To avoid root rot, make sure that you allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions and choose well-draining soil for planting parsley.

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Bonide Fung-onil Multi-Purpose Fungicide 32 oz. Ready to Use.

Protect and prevent common fungal diseases with Fung-onil Multi-Purpose Fungicide Concentrate from Bonide. Controls leaf spot, rust, blight, mildew, scab mold and other listed diseases.

Download Our Fact Sheet

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, it’s important to understand the basic needs of plants to ensure successful growth and bountiful harvests. That’s why we’ve created a downloadable Fact Sheet for your journal or garden planner, so you have all the key information at your fingertips.

Our fact sheet provides a quick overview of details on plant care. You’ll be able to refer to this reference whenever you need to look up the ideal growing conditions for this plant, including soil type and temperature requirements. With this quick reference guide in hand, you can easily consult it whenever you need reminders about caring for your plants.

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