How to Grow Parsley

Updated June 2026

A year-round herb for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Parsley is a rewarding year-round crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

In frost-free regions parsley can be grown almost year-round. Elsewhere, plant in the milder months on either side of summer. See your region on the parsley page for exact timing.

Varieties

Italian Flat-Leaf, Best flavor for cooking (Johnny's Selected Seeds)
Moss Curled, Decorative garnish type (Baker Creek)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: part sun to light shade, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 8 in between plants.
Sowing: barely cover the seed.
Water: roughly 1.1 gal per plant every 2 days in hot weather.
Containers: grows well in a pot of 8 in+.

Pests & problems

Watch for Slugs. In humid regions, Septoria leaf spot can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Parsley is usually ready to harvest in about 3 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant parsley where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →