Photo: "Parsley in Morning Light" by Don LaVange
· CC BY-SA 2.0
Herb · Biennial-culinary
Flat-Leaf Parsley
Open-pollinated · Apiaceae
The professional chef's choice. Flat, deeply divided leaves with robust, slightly peppery flavor that holds up in cooking. 'Giant of Italy' is the standard variety. Slow germination (14-30 days) is the main challenge — soak seeds overnight. Once established, remarkably productive and low-maintenance via cut-and-come-again. Biennial: overwinters in zones 6a+ for early spring harvest before Year 2 bolt. Host plant for black swallowtail butterfly.
At a Glance
Days to Maturity
70–90 days
Sun
4+ hours
4-6+ hours
Spacing
8–12 "
Seed Start
8–10 weeks
before transplant
Container
Yes
1+ gallon pot
Height
1–1.5 ft
Zone Planting Guide
Growing Guide
Germination
Germination Time14–30 days
Optimal Temp70°F
Seed Depth0.25"
Transplanting
Min Soil Temp50°F
Harden Off7 days
Watering
Weekly Water1–1.5 "
NeedsConsistent-moderate
MethodDeep watering preferred.
Soil
pH Range6–7
Soil TypeMoist, fertile, well-drained, high organic matter
Resilience
Heat: ModerateCold: Moderate-highDrought: Low
Common Problems
septoria-leaf-spot
Cause: Fungal. Small brown spots with dark margins.
Prevention: Good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, remove affected leaves, crop rotation.
parsleyworm
Cause: Black swallowtail butterfly larvae. Green/black/yellow-striped caterpillars.
Prevention: Handpick and relocate (they become desirable butterflies). Plant extra as sacrifice host. Bt works but kills beneficial butterfly.
slugs
Cause: Irregular holes. Worst in wet conditions.
Prevention: Iron phosphate baits. Copper tape. Water in morning.
Planting dates for Flat-Leaf Parsley vary by USDA hardiness zone. Select your zone below for frost dates, start-indoors timing, and a full monthly planting calendar.
