---
title: Parsley
created: 2026-05-24
updated: 2026-05-25
type: entity
tags: [herbs, heirloom, open-pollinated]
sources: [raw/articles/seedvault-home-page.md]
---

# Parsley

## Overview
Flat leaf parsley — versatile herb for cooking, salads, and garnishes. Slow germination but hardy once established.

- **Category:** Herbs
- **Price:** $3.12
- **Variety Type:** Open-pollinated
- **Days to Harvest:** 70-80 days from transplant
- **Germination:** 6-14 days at 70-80°F
- **Fruit Weight:** ~3 oz
- **Type:** Bush (no staking required)

## Growing Instructions
- **Sowing:** Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Seeds 1/4" deep, 1" apart. Keep 70-75°F.
- **Transplant:** When soil temp reaches ~70°F, full sun. Harden off a week before.
- **Care:** Protect from temps below 55°F. Thick mulch layer. Water once a week, avoid wetting leaves.
- **Harvest:** Pick when fully red and firm.

## Soil & Conditions
- **pH:** 6.0-7.0, well-drained. Tolerates partial shade.

## Seed Storage
- **Viability:** 2-3 years. Hard seed coat slows germination.
- **Pre-treatment:** Soak 24h or nick seed coat. Or refrigerate moist seeds 2 weeks before sowing (cold stratification).

## Yield
- **Per Plant:** 0.5-1 lb per plant
- **Harvest Season:** Cool seasons, biennial
- **Note:** Two-year crop, harvest leaves throughout
Biennial. Bolts year 2 with umbel flowers. Bag to prevent cross-pollination. Harvest when seeds turn brown on plant.

## Pest & Disease
Aphids, parsley webworm, leaf spot. Ensure good drainage and air circulation.

## Harvest & Preservation
Cut outer stems, center regenerates. Store wrapped in damp paper towel, refrigerated 1-2 weeks. Dry whole or freeze in oil.

## Companion Planting

### Good Companions
- **[[roma-tomatoes]], asparagus** — Repels asparagus beetles, tomato hornworms

## Related
- [[seedvault-market]]
- [[grow-guides]]
- [[seed-catalog]]