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USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 3-11 - Grows as an annual in most climates and as a biennial in Zones 7-10. It is a cool-season herb that can withstand light frost.

Best performance in Zones 3-9, where it can be grown in the spring and fall.

Northern zones (3-5) - Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date. Direct sow after the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed. In late fall, you can cover plants with a thick mulch to extend the harvest.

Hot climate zones (9-11) - Plant in fall for a winter and spring harvest. The extreme heat of summer will cause the plants to bolt (go to seed) and become bitter.

Soil temperature - Germination is best in a cool soil, with an optimal temperature range of 50-70F. Consistent moisture is crucial for germination.

Growing season - Requires 70-90 days from seed to first harvest, making it a good choice for consistent production.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

Planting Tips

When to Plant:
Parsley seeds are notoriously slow to germinate. Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date. For a continuous harvest, you can direct sow seeds every few weeks in early spring. For a fall crop, sow seeds in late summer.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun in cooler climates and partial shade in warmer climates to prevent bolting. Parsley thrives in rich, moist, well-draining soil with a good amount of organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.

Sowing Seeds:

Seed Preparation: For faster germination, you can soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting.

Sowing Indoors: Fill seed starting trays with a fine, sterile seed starting mix. Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep.

Water to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Place the trays in a warm location, but be patient as germination can take up to 3 weeks or more.

Sowing Outdoors: Prepare a garden bed by loosening the soil and mixing in compost. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them about 6-8 inches apart.

Keep the seedbed consistently moist until seedlings emerge.

Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Parsley does not like to dry out.

Fertilizing: Amend the soil with compost before planting. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied every few weeks to support vigorous leafy growth.

Harvesting: Begin harvesting when the outer leaves have 3 segments. To harvest, cut the outer stems at the base of the plant, leaving the inner growth to continue producing new leaves.

Overwintering: In colder climates, a thick layer of mulch can protect the roots, allowing the plant to survive the winter and produce an early spring harvest. In its second year, it will bolt and produce seeds.

Parsley Seeds - Triple Curled - Petroselinum crispum

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