How to Grow Parsley
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Parsley
Petroselinum crispum
herbParsley is a biennial herb prized for its nutritious, flavorful leaves used in culinary applications worldwide. It comes in two main types: curly-leaf (decorative, mild flavor) and flat-leaf or Italian (stronger flavor, more tender). Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, parsley is a versatile kitchen staple that's relatively easy to grow.
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Example Parsley timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Parsley
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Parsley
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Parsley dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; grows year-round in mild climates, best as cool-season crop in hot regions
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Get my Parsley timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerging from soil; cotyledons (first leaves) appear pale green
Keep soil evenly moist; maintain 65-75°F; parsley germinates slowly (10-21 days), be patient; provide bright, indirect light
Seedling
3-4 weeksFirst true leaves developing; small rosette forming with distinctive parsley leaf shape
Thin seedlings to 3 inches apart; ensure good air circulation to prevent damping off; maintain consistent moisture; apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksBushy plant developing multiple stems with deeply lobed leaves; robust, spreading foliage
Thin to final spacing of 6 inches; pinch center stem to encourage bushier growth; fertilize every 3-4 weeks; mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature
Mature Production
4-12 weeks or longerFull-sized plant with abundant, dark green foliage ready for regular harvesting
Begin harvesting outer stems once plant has 6-8 leaves; continue regular harvesting to promote bushiness; remove flower buds if growing as annual; water deeply during dry periods
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick caterpillars; allow some damage as they become beautiful butterflies; neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe
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Spray with strong water jet; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Increase humidity; spray with water; neem oil; horticultural oil in severe cases
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and
Hand-pick, especially at dawn/dusk; beer traps; copper tape barriers; diatomaceous earth around base
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Remove affected leaves; floating row covers; spinosad; encourage parasitic wasps
Uses
Garnish & Fresh Cooking
CulinaryParsley's fresh, slightly peppery flavor enhances soups, salads, fish, poultry, and vegetable dishes. It's a classic component of bouquet garni, chimichurri, and European cuisine, adding color and mild herbaceous taste. [source]
Nutritional Powerhouse
CulinaryRich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus minerals like iron and calcium; supports immune function and bone health. Often used as a nutritional supplement in green smoothies and fresh juices. [source]
Digestive & Anti-inflammatory Support
MedicinalTraditionally used in herbal medicine to aid digestion, reduce bloating, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Parsley tea or infusion may help freshen breath and support urinary health. [source]
Natural Breath Freshener
HouseholdChewing fresh parsley neutralizes odors from garlic and onions due to its chlorophyll content. Commonly used as a natural breath mint in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. [source]
Drying & Preservation
CraftParsley dries well for long-term storage and retains flavor when properly dried; commonly used in dried herb blends, seasoning mixes, and herbal teas. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting when plant has 6-8 leaves (typically 60-90 days); pinch outer stems first, working toward center; harvest in morning after dew dries for best flavor; regular harvesting encourages bushier growth; never remove more than 1/3 of plant at once; in first year, may continue harvesting through fall and winter in mild climates; freeze, dry, or refrigerate in water-filled jar for storage
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Parsley seeds can take 2-3 weeks to germinate because they contain germination inhibitors; soaking seeds overnight in warm water or freezing them can speed germination.
- 🌱 The Black Swallowtail butterfly caterpillar feeds exclusively on parsley, fennel, and dill; many gardeners welcome these colorful caterpillars as beneficial insects.
- 🌱 Parsley is biennial, meaning it produces leaves the first year and flowers/seeds the second year; most people grow it as an annual for continuous leafy harvests.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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