Moss Curled parsley is a vigorous and productive variety, characterized by compact plants that produce very dark green, finely cut, and deeply curled leaves. The dense foliage forms thick,
curled branches that create a lush, moss-like appearance, making it not only an excellent culinary herb but also a visually appealing choice for garnishes and garden borders.
Parsley Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow parsley seeds outdoors in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, typically 2–3 weeks before the last frost date. In warmer climates, parsley can also be sown in fall for a winter harvest.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot or an area with partial shade. Parsley thrives in loose, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6–8 inches and incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Seeds:
- Soak parsley seeds in water for 12–24 hours before planting to speed up germination.
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 6–8 inches apart in rows.
- Space rows 12–18 inches apart to allow for proper airflow and ease of harvesting.
- Thinning: Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart once they are about 2 inches tall to give each plant space to grow.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which can take 14–21 days. Water deeply and regularly to maintain healthy growth.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start parsley seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost date for an earlier harvest.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Soak seeds in water for 12–24 hours before planting to encourage germination.
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, placing 1–2 seeds per cell or pot.
- Cover lightly with soil and water gently.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 65–75°F (18–24°C) for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 14–21 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors once the soil temperature reaches at least 50°F (10°C) and the plants have 2–3 sets of true leaves. Space plants 6–8 inches apart.
General Care Tips for Parsley
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for the best growth. Parsley can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
- Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilizing: Parsley is a light feeder. Incorporate compost into the soil before planting and fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water. Mulching helps suppress weeds and maintain soil moisture.
- Harvesting: Begin harvesting parsley once the plants are 6–8 inches tall. Cut outer stems at the base, allowing inner stems to continue growing. Parsley can be harvested continuously throughout the growing season.
- Overwintering: In milder climates, parsley can overwinter and regrow in the spring.
