Curly Parsley
Petroselinum crispum
Family: Apiaceae
Curly parsley has tightly ruffled, bright green leaves that make it perfect for garnishing. While Italian parsley has stronger flavor, curly parsley holds up better for decoration.
Days to Harvest
65-80 days
Sun Needs
Full Sun to Part Shade (4-6+ hours)
moderate
Germination Temp
65°F optimal
Start Indoors
8 weeks before last frost
Germination
14-28 days
Seed Depth
1/4 inch
Light to Germinate
No
đź’ˇ Tip: Soak seeds overnight to speed germination. Be patient - parsley is slow to sprout.
Soil Type
Rich, moist, well-draining soil
pH Range
6 - 7
Spacing
8-10 inches between plants
⚠️ Avoid planting near:
History
Parsley has been cultivated for over 2,000 years. Ancient Greeks used it in funeral wreaths and to crown athletic champions.
Nutritional Benefits
- âś“Extremely high in Vitamin K
- âś“Rich in Vitamins A and C
- âś“Contains antioxidants
Optimal Growing Temp
50°F - 70°F
Parsley prefers cool to moderate temperatures. Grows best in spring and fall. Tolerates light frost. Bolts in hot weather.
Survival Range
25°F - 85°F
Can survive these temperatures
Frost Note: Tolerates light frosts (to 25°F). Can overwinter with protection in zones 6-7. Biennial that bolts second year.
Best USDA Zones
Humidity
40-60%
Tolerates moderate humidity. Good air circulation prevents fungal issues.
Height
12-18 inches
Spread
10-14 inches
Growth Habit
clumping
Germination
14-28 days
Very slow germination. Soak seeds overnight to speed germination. Be patient—parsley is notoriously slow to sprout.
Seedling Stage
Duration: 4-6 weeks
True leaves: First true leaves are small and divided. Grow slowly at first.
Transplant ready: Transplant when 3-4 inches tall (8-10 weeks from sowing). Handle taproot carefully.
Vegetative Growth
Duration: First year—continuous production
Forms rosettes of curly, decorative leaves. Harvest outer leaves regularly.
Flowering
Timing: Second year in spring/summer
Duration: 3-4 weeks
Umbel flowers attract beneficial insects. Flowering signals end of harvest—leaves become bitter.
Harvest Maturity
Timing: 70-90 days to harvest
- Full rosette of leaves
- Vigorous growth
- Dark green color
Per Plant
2-4 cups fresh leaves per plant over the season.
Per Square Foot
4-6 plants per square foot
Harvest Frequency
Harvest outer leaves every 1-2 weeks once established.
Factors Affecting Yield
- •Cool weather produces best quality
- •Regular harvest extends production
- •Second-year plants bolt quickly
Seedling Stage
Keep soil consistently moist during slow germination period.
Established Plants
Water when top inch of soil is dry. Typically every 3-4 days. Consistent moisture important.
During Fruiting
N/A—harvest before flowering.
Preferred Method
Water at soil level. Parsley needs more water than Mediterranean herbs.
Pro Tips
- Parsley needs consistent moisture
- Mulch to retain moisture
- Morning watering reduces disease
Feeding Schedule
Planting
Compost
Once
Growing
Liquid fertilizer
Every 3-4 weeks
Organic Options
Feed monthly for steady leaf production.
Minimum Size
8 inch pot
Recommended Size
10-12 inch pot
Depth Required
At least 10-12 inches deep for taproot
Best Varieties for Containers
Container Tips
- Parsley grows well in containers
- Deep pots accommodate taproot
- Keep soil consistently moist
- Bring indoors for winter harvest
Plant Every
Every 3-4 weeks
Sowings/Season
2-3 plantings
Duration
Spring through early summer; again late summer
Tips
- Plant in spring and late summer for year-round harvest
- Fall plantings may overwinter in mild climates
