Parsley Seeds - Dark Green Italian - Petroselinum crispum

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 2-11 - Parsley is grown as a hardy annual in most climates. It is technically a biennial and can overwinter in zones 5-9 to provide an early crop in its second spring before it flowers.

Best Performance - Thrives in the cool temperatures of spring and fall across all zones. The most tender and flavorful leaves are produced when temperatures are between 50-75 degrees F.

Northern Zones (2-5) - Sow seeds in early spring after the danger of a hard freeze has passed. It will produce a bountiful harvest from early summer through the fall and can withstand several light frosts.

Hot Climate Zones (8-11) - For the best results, plant in the fall for a long and productive harvest season through the winter and into the spring. Intense summer heat will cause the plant to bolt (go to seed) and the leaf flavor to decline. Planting in a spot with afternoon shade can help extend the spring harvest.

Soil Temperature - Germination is notoriously slow. Soaking seeds overnight can help. The optimal soil temperature range for germination is 60-75 degrees F.

Growing Season - Ready for a light harvest in approximately 70-90 days from sowing. Once mature, it can be harvested continuously throughout the growing season.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your last frost date. To direct sow, plant seeds in the garden in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, typically 2-4 weeks before your last frost. For fall and winter harvests in mild climates, sow seeds in late summer.

Where to Plant:
Choose a site that receives full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, a location with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal. Parsley thrives in rich, deep, and moist soil that is well-drained.

How to Plant:

Pro Tip for Germination: Parsley is known for being very slow to germinate (14-30 days). To significantly speed up the process, soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours right before planting.

Direct Sow: Prepare the garden bed with compost. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep. Space seeds about 1-2 inches apart in rows, and later thin the seedlings to stand 6-10 inches apart.

Indoor Start: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and warm. Once seedlings are large enough to handle and have been hardened off, transplant them to the garden.

Care & Maintenance:

Watering: Parsley requires consistent moisture for the best growth and flavor. Water deeply and regularly, ensuring the soil does not dry out completely.

Fertilizing: To encourage lush foliage, feed your parsley plants with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Harvesting: Begin harvesting when the plant has developed several stems with full leaves. Always harvest the outer stems first by snipping them at the base. This encourages the plant to produce new growth from its center and extends the harvest period.

Pests: Look for the distinctive striped caterpillars of the Black Swallowtail butterfly. To protect your harvest while supporting wildlife, consider planting a separate patch just for them!