How to Grow Parsley, Curly

Parsley, Curly

Petroselinum crispum var. crispum

herb

Curly parsley is a biennial herb with densely frilled, deep green leaves that form attractive mounding plants. It is commonly used as a culinary garnish and flavoring agent in kitchens worldwide. The plant is cold-hardy, decorative, and prolific when given proper growing conditions.

Looking for a specific variety?

Moss Curled Forest Green Triple Curled Afro Petite Giant of Italy

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun to partial shade; 6+ hours of sunlight daily (tolerates 3-4 hours in hot climates)

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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply 2-3 times weekly, more frequently in hot weather. Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

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Spacing: 6 inches

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Days to maturity: 70-90 days from seed; 3-4 weeks from transplant

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Planting depth: 1/4 inch for seeds; transplant at soil line

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy soil rich in organic matter

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

compost aged manure peat moss perlite for drainage

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 3-9; grows as annual in warmer zones (10+)

3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a

Growth Stages

Seedling

2-3 weeks

Tiny seedlings with simple oval cotyledons emerge; first true leaves are fernlike and delicate

Keep soil moist; provide bright indirect light; thin seedlings to prevent damping off; be patient—parsley germinates slowly (14-21 days)

Vegetative Growth

4-8 weeks

Plant develops multiple stems with increasingly frilly, deeply cut compound leaves; forms a mounding bushy shape

Water consistently; pinch off flower buds to extend leaf production; apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 3-4 weeks

Mature Foliage

6-12 weeks

Plant reaches full size (12-18 inches tall) with dense curly foliage ready for regular harvesting

Begin harvesting outer leaves; maintain moisture and fertility; remove any yellowed or damaged foliage

Flowering (Year 2)

4-8 weeks

Plant bolts, sending up tall flower stalks with small yellow-green flowers in flat-topped clusters (umbels)

Flowering signals the end of the plant's useful life in the garden; allow some flowers to set seed if desired for next season

Seed Production

3-4 weeks

Flowers develop into small brown seeds; foliage becomes coarse and less palatable

Allow seeds to dry on plant if saving for next season; harvest seed heads when they turn brown

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

tomatoes asparagus basil chives oregano rosemary lettuce carrots onions

Avoid planting near:

fennel dill rue

Common Pests

Allow some caterpillars to develop into butterflies for pollination; remove by hand if population is excessive; neem oil spray
Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs
Increase humidity; mist foliage regularly; insecticidal soap; neem oil
Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap; neem oil; improve air circulation
Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply copper fungicide if severe

Uses

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Garnish & Fresh Seasoning

Culinary

Curly parsley is a classic garnish for soups, salads, and plated dishes. Fresh leaves add mild herbal flavor to sauces, dressings, egg dishes, and Mediterranean cuisines. [source]

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Chlorophyll & Breath Freshener

Culinary

High chlorophyll content helps neutralize odors and freshen breath naturally. Often chewed after meals or added to smoothies for this benefit. [source]

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Digestive & Diuretic Support

Medicinal

Traditionally used as herbal tea to aid digestion, reduce bloating, and support kidney function. Contains volatile oils that may help stimulate digestive enzymes. [source]

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Antioxidant & Nutrient-Rich

Medicinal

Rich in vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and potassium. Contains flavonoids and carotenoids that support immune function and reduce inflammation. [source]

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Natural Deodorizer

Household

Fresh parsley leaves can be simmered with water or lemon to create a natural air freshener for the home or to eliminate cooking odors. [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 is 6-8 inches tall by pinching or cutting outer stems at the base, working from outside inward. Harvest regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent bolting. Cut stems just above a leaf node. Harvest in morning after dew dries for best flavor. Can be harvested continuously throughout the growing season; productivity peaks in cool season.

Fun Facts

🌱 Parsley seeds can take 3-4 weeks to germinate because they contain germination-inhibiting oils; some gardeners soak seeds overnight or scar them lightly to speed sprouting.
🌱 Curly parsley is the preferred larval food plant for Black Swallowtail butterflies, making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens—many gardeners deliberately plant extra to support these beautiful insects.
🌱 In ancient Greece and Rome, parsley was associated with death and was traditionally used in funeral wreaths, yet today it's one of the most popular culinary herbs worldwide.

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