Parsley is a biennial herb commonly cultivated as an annual, prized for its distinctive flavor and bright green foliage. It produces leaves in the first year, which is the preferred stage for culinary use. Establishing new parsley plants can be achieved reliably through two distinct methods: sowing seeds or rooting stem cuttings. Both approaches offer a steady supply of this popular herb but require different techniques and patience levels.
Propagating Parsley from Seed
Starting parsley from seed is the most common method, though germination is slow. The seeds contain inhibitors, causing them to take two to four weeks to sprout, even under ideal conditions. To overcome this dormancy, soak the seeds in warm water for 24 to 36 hours before planting (scarification).
The soil temperature significantly influences germination speed, with an optimal range between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If starting indoors, use a seedling heat mat to maintain warmth and encourage quicker sprouting. Seeds should be sown shallowly, covering them with only about one-quarter inch of fine soil or seed-starting mix.
For indoor starts, sow six to eight weeks before the last expected frost, placing two to four seeds per pot to ensure at least one successful sprout. When direct sowing outdoors in early spring, plant seeds six to eight inches apart. Keep the growing medium consistently moist using a gentle mist, as drying out can stop the process entirely.
Starting New Plants from Cuttings
Propagating parsley from stem cuttings is faster than seeds and allows cloning of healthy plants or overwintering varieties. Take cuttings from a non-flowering stem that is four to six inches long. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut just below a leaf node, where new roots will emerge.
Strip away all leaves from the bottom two to three inches of the stem to prevent rotting once submerged. Place the prepared stems in a glass of fresh water, ensuring the submerged portion includes at least one leaf node. Place the container in a location that receives bright, indirect light.
Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and reduce bacterial growth. Fine, white roots typically begin to emerge from the nodes within one to two weeks. Once these roots have grown to approximately two inches in length, the new plant is ready to be transplanted into a moist growing medium.
Essential Care for New Parsley Plants
Once parsley seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves or cuttings have rooted, they require specific care to transition into productive plants. Seedlings started indoors should be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions over a period of seven to ten days, known as hardening off, before being permanently transplanted. This process involves slowly increasing their exposure to direct sun and wind.
Parsley thrives in a site that receives full sun to partial shade, ideally with four to six hours of sunlight daily. The soil should be rich in organic matter and well-draining, as the plant does not tolerate standing water, which can lead to root rot. Consistent moisture is necessary, particularly for young plants, so water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
The new plants should be spaced about eight to twelve inches apart, whether in the garden or in individual containers, to allow for good air circulation and growth. Harvesting can begin once the plant is at least six to eight inches tall and has sufficient foliage. Always snip the older, outer stems first near the base, which encourages new growth from the center of the plant.