How to Plant, Grow and Harvest Parsley
- Jonathan Valencia
- Oct 10
- 4 min read
Parsley is one of the most popular herbs in the kitchen, loved for its fresh, bright flavor and versatility. Whether sprinkled over salads, stirred into soups, or used as a garnish, parsley can instantly elevate a dish.
The great news is that parsley is also one of the easiest herbs to grow whether in your garden, on a balcony, or even indoors on a sunny windowsill.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about planting, growing, and harvesting parsley, explained in a simple and beginner-friendly way.
What is Parsley?
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a biennial herb, which means it naturally lives for two years. In the first year, it produces plenty of leaves, and in the second year, it flowers and sets seeds before dying back.
There are two main types:
Curly leaf parsley – Decorative and often used as a garnish.
Flat-leaf parsley (Italian parsley) – Stronger flavor and preferred for cooking.
Both types grow well in gardens and containers.
How to Plant Parsley
1. Choosing the Right Spot
Sunlight: Parsley loves full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Aim for at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily.
Soil: Rich, loamy, well-drained soil is ideal. Mix in compost before planting to boost nutrients.
2. Planting from Seeds
Parsley grows best from seeds, but they take time to sprout (2–4 weeks). Here’s how to improve success:
Soak the seeds in warm water overnight before planting. This softens the seed coat and speeds up germination.
When to plant: Sow seeds outdoors in early spring or start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
How to sow: Plant seeds ¼ inch deep and cover lightly with soil. Keep soil evenly moist until seedlings appear.
Spacing: Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart for healthy growth.
3. Growing in Containers
Parsley grows well in pots. Choose a container at least 8–10 inches deep, with good drainage. Place it in a sunny spot and water regularly.
How to Grow Parsley
1. Watering
Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot weather.
Avoid overwatering soggy soil can cause root rot.
2. Ideal Soil Types for Parsley
Parsley thrives in a deep, fertile, and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral) is preferred.
Loam: This is the ideal soil. It's a balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay, which provides excellent drainage while still retaining enough moisture and nutrients.
Sandy Loam: A good option, especially if amended heavily with organic material like compost, as it drains very well and warms up quickly in the spring.
3. Fertilizers
For vigorous, lush parsley growth, a consistent feeding schedule is key, but avoid over-fertilizing, which can compromise flavor. The ideal strategy is to incorporate well-rotted manure or rich compost into the soil before planting.
During the active growing season, which generally runs from spring through fall, feed your parsley every 4 to 6 weeks with a balanced, gentle liquid feed. Excellent choices include fish emulsion or a diluted compost tea.
When selecting a commercial fertilizer, look for one with an N-P-K ratio (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) that is relatively balanced, such as 1-1-1. Nitrogen (N) is the most crucial component, as it specifically encourages the development of the dense, green foliage you want in parsley. Apply these supplements according to the product's instructions to ensure robust, leafy production.
Alternative Fertilizers for Parsley
While manure and fish emulsion are excellent, here are a few more high-quality options to consider:
Blood Meal (Organic): This is a great high-nitrogen organic source, perfect for that initial boost of leafy growth. Use it sparingly, and water it in well, as too much can "burn" the plants.
Worm Castings (Organic): These are the manure of earthworms and are one of the best all-around soil amendments. They are nutrient-rich, completely gentle, and improve soil structure without any risk of over-fertilization. They can be mixed into the potting mix or used as a top dressing.
Slow-Release Granular Fertilizer: If you prefer less frequent application, a slow-release granular fertilizer formulated for herbs or vegetables (again, with a balanced N-P-K like 10-10-10 or a similar ratio) can be applied once at the start of the season. The nutrients are released slowly over several months.
Liquid Seaweed/Kelp Extract (Organic): Excellent for overall plant health. It contains trace minerals and growth hormones that help strengthen the plant, making it more vigorous and resistant to stress. It's often used in combination with other fertilizers.
4. Maintenance
Remove weeds around parsley to prevent competition.
Mulch lightly around the plants to keep soil moist and cool.
Pinch off any yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth
4. Companion Planting
Parsley makes a great companion for tomatoes, peppers, carrots, and onions. It attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies. Avoid planting near mint, which can spread aggressively.
How to Harvest Parsley
1. Harvesting Leaves
Start harvesting once the plant is 6–8 inches tall.
Cut the outer stems near the base, leaving the inner stems to continue growing.
Regular harvesting actually encourages new growth.
2. Harvesting Seeds
If you let parsley grow into its second year, it will flower and produce seeds.
Collect seeds once the flower heads turn brown and dry. Store them in a paper bag until you’re ready to replant.
Tips for Success
Succession planting: Plant new seeds every 4–6 weeks for a continuous supply.
Indoor growing: Parsley grows well in pots by a sunny kitchen window — perfect for year-round harvesting.
Preserving parsley: Chop and freeze fresh parsley in ice cube trays with a little water, or dry it in a cool, dark place for long storage.
Common Problems and Solutions
Slow germination → Soak seeds overnight before planting to speed things up.
Yellowing leaves → Usually a sign of overwatering or poor soil. Adjust watering and add compost.
Bolting (flowering too early) → Happens in hot weather. Harvest leaves frequently to delay flowering.
Final Thoughts
Parsley is one of the easiest and most rewarding herbs to grow. With just a little sun, regular watering, and some care, you’ll have a steady supply of fresh parsley to brighten up your cooking. Whether you grow curly or flat-leaf varieties, parsley will reward you with flavor all season long.
So grab some seeds, soak them overnight, and start planting your kitchen will thank you!
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