When to plant
Sow direct or transplant in early spring (parsley tolerates light frost). It can also be sown in late summer for autumn/winter harvest. In mild climates, parsley is almost year-round. It bolts in extreme summer heat — provide afternoon shade.
Soil & site
Parsley prefers rich, well-drained, moist soil. pH 6.0–7.0. Work in compost before planting. It's slower to establish than most herbs (germination can take 3 weeks) but is then productive for 1–2 years.
Feeding
A nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 4–6 weeks keeps parsley producing vigorously. It's one of the leafier herbs and benefits more from feeding than drought-adapted herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Common problems
Parsley caterpillar (beautiful green and black striped caterpillar of the swallowtail butterfly — consider leaving some as they become butterflies). Carrot rust fly (same pest as carrots — row cover prevents). Slow germination frustrates beginners — soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing to speed germination.
When to harvest
Parsley is ready to harvest once the plant has at least 3 sets of leaves and is 15 cm tall. Always harvest outer stems — the inner stems are the youngest growth and should be left to continue developing.
How to harvest
Cut outer stems at the base, as close to the ground as possible — this encourages new growth from the centre. Never cut from the centre of the plant. Harvest stems rather than individual leaves. Parsley is a biennial — in its second year it will flower and go to seed; harvest heavily before this happens.
Storage & use
Stand fresh parsley in a glass of water in the refrigerator (like cut flowers) for up to 2 weeks. To freeze: chop and place in ice cube trays with water, freeze, then transfer cubes to bags. Dried parsley loses most of its flavour — freezing is far better for long-term storage.
Companion planting
Parsley attracts predatory wasps that control aphids. It is a great neighbor for tomatoes.
Useful for growing parsley
A few things that make this one easier — chosen for this plant, not a generic list.
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