Italian parsley is a variety of the parsley plant used as an herb in a wide range of cuisines around the world. The slender stems give way to dark, flat leaves that taste robust and fresh. This herb, also known as flat-leaf parsley, is sold on the stems but only the leaves are most commonly used in cooking, which can be added whole or chopped. Italian parsley is also sold dried, which is more muted in flavor than fresh. Italian parsley is available year-round and is easy to grow at home.
Italian parsley herbs require temperate conditions. They don't perform well in extremely hot areas and are prone to freezing back in cold climates. Choose a sunny site in well-draining soil with plenty of organic amendment. If you're planting several plants together, allow at least 18 inches (36 cm.)
2. Plant Characteristics
Before diving into the steps for growing Italian flat leaf parsley, let's explore its characteristics:
History of the Seed: Native to the Mediterranean region, Italian flat-leaf parsley has been cultivated for centuries for both its culinary and medicinal properties.
Days till maturity: Approximately 70-90 days.
Planting depth: 1/4 inch.
Plant spacing: 10-12 inches apart.
Days to germination: 14-30 days.
Start indoors or direct sown: Both methods work well, though starting indoors is recommended in colder climates.
Full sun or partial shade: Prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
When to harvest: Harvest when the leaves are large and deep green, typically after 70-90 days.
Plant height: 12-18 inches tall.
Plant width: 9-12 inches wide.
Native: Mediterranean region.
Family: Apiaceae.
3. Preparing to Plant
To start your herb garden, gather the following materials:
Italian flat leaf parsley seeds
Seed starting mix or potting soil
Seed trays or small pots
Garden beds or containers with well-draining soil
Trowel
Watering can or hose
4. Starting Italian Flat Leaf Parsley Seeds
Follow these steps to start your Italian flat leaf parsley seeds:
Choose a location: Select a sunny window or another spot with plenty of sunlight for starting your herb seeds.
Prepare the seed trays: Fill seed trays or small pots with seed starting mix or potting soil, making sure to leave a 1/4-inch gap at the top.
Plant the seeds: Place one parsley seed in each cell or pot, and cover with a 1/4 inch of soil.
Water the seeds: Gently water the seeds until the soil is moist, but not soaking wet. Keep the soil moist throughout the germination process.
Maintain optimal conditions: Maintain a temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C) for best germination results.
5. Transplanting Seedlings
Once your parsley seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into the garden or a larger container. Follow these steps to transplant your parsley seedlings:
Harden off the seedlings: Gradually expose your seedlings to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days to help them acclimate to the environment.
Prepare the garden beds: Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Loosen the soil with a trowel or garden fork and mix in some compost or aged manure to enrich the soil.
Plant the seedlings: Dig small holes in the garden bed or container, spaced 10-12 inches apart. Gently remove the seedlings from their trays or pots, being careful not to damage their roots, and place them in the holes. Fill the holes with soil and gently firm it around the base of the seedlings.
Water the seedlings: Water the transplanted seedlings thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
