How to Grow Petroselinum Plants

Gardener's HQ Guide to Growing Parsley

The herb Parsley is a member of the Petroselinum plant genus, and it is beloved by chefs.

Parsley can reach a height of 15 to 45 cm (6 to 18 inch) and is usually grown as an hardy annual.

Parsley is actually a hardy perennial and will flower in its second year if allowed.

The leaves of parsley can be removed at any time before flowering occurs (spring time).

Curley parsley

Italian parsley

As with most herbs, parsley is best used fresh. Curly varieties are usually the best to use raw, whilst flat leaved parsleys are great for cooking with.

Parsley can also be frozen, be sure to clean and dry the parsley thoroughly before freezing.

Parsley
Parsley by Larryjh1234; creative commons.

Petroselinum crispum
Petroselinum crispum – Curly Leaf Parsley by Carl E Lewis; creative commons.

Petroselinum Plant Growing and Care Guide

Common Names: Parsley: Curly leaf; Italian; Flat leaf; Hamburg Root.
Life Cycle: Hardy perennial commonly grown as a hardy annual or a biennial.
Height: 6 to 20 inches (15 to 50 cm).
Native: Europe, Asia.
Growing Region: Zones 4 to 9.

Flowers: Early spring.
Flower Details: Yellow, white. Small. Grown for its leaves.
Foliage: Lobed. Toothed, Curly.

Sow Outside: 1/4 inch (6 mm). Before the last frost or in autumn. Spacing 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm).
Sow Inside: Use peat pots. Soak seeds overnight. Germination time: two to six weeks in the dark. Temperature 70°F (21°C). Seven or eight weeks in advance. Transplant outdoors before the last frost.

Requirements: Full sunlight or light shade. Good drainage. Soil pH 5.5 to 6.5. Rich soil. Moist soil. Mix cow manure to the soil when planting. Regular watering. Requires feed. Harvest leaves for culinary use.
Family: Apiaceae.
Miscellaneous: Parsley attracts predatory insects such as wasps and is therefore a good companion plant. It also emits a similar scent to tomatoes; therefore many pests lay eggs on parsley by mistake.

How to Grow Parsley

For a prolonged growing and harvesting period start the parsley plants off indoors by sowing into peat pots in the second half of winter.

First soak the parsley seeds for a day in water, sow at a depth of 6 mm (1/4 inch), then germinate in the dark at about 20 degrees centigrade (68°F).

It should take about 3 to 6 weeks for Parsley to germinate.

The plants should then be grown in an area where it will receive plenty of light, also at a temperature of 20 degrees (68°F).

The plants can be transferred outdoors. Space at about 20 cm apart at the start of spring before the last frost has occurred.

If starting Parsley (Petroselinum) outdoors then sow at a depth of 6 mm (1/4 inch) before the last frost of spring.

Parsley is able to grow in either lightly shaded or sunny parts of the garden.

The soil should be slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.5) and richly manured.

Caring for Parsley, Petroselinum Plants in the Garden

Once growing, Parsley and other Petroselinum plants should be fertilised once they reach about 12 cm (1 foot) in height. A month later feed them again.

In mid-summer, mix some fresh compost into the ground that the parsley is growing in.

Common Questions

How many members does the Petroselinum genus contain?

The Petroselinum genus contains only two species, the most well-known of which is Parsley.

Do Petroselinum members make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Petroselinum plants, particularly parsley, are excellent in herb gardens, mixed borders, and as edging plants. Their rich green foliage can be a beautiful addition to any landscape.

Which Petroselinum species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

The species Petroselinum crispum is widely grown in gardens, with several cultivated varieties including Curly-leaf parsley, and Italian or Flat-leaf parsley.

Are Petroselinum plants fragrant?

While not particularly fragrant, Petroselinum plants, such as parsley, have a fresh, green scent when leaves are crushed or cut.

What is the perfect location to grow Petroselinum?

Petroselinum plants prefer a sunny or partially shaded location with rich, well-drained soil.

Is Petroselinum invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

As of now, Petroselinum is not considered invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Petroselinum plants from my garden?

To remove Petroselinum plants, simply pull up the entire plant, ensuring that all roots are removed.

Summary

The Petroselinum genus is part of the Apiaceae family, and it's best known for its single species, Petroselinum crispum, commonly known as parsley. Parsley is a biennial herb and a staple in many kitchens, used both for its flavorful leaves and its root.

Parsley plants prefer a sunny or partially shaded location with rich, well-drained soil. It can be grown from seed in early spring or autumn. An excellent addition to herb gardens, vegetable gardens, or even as a border plant, parsley is a must-have for any culinary gardener.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Petroselinum plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Cumin, Aloe vera plant, Yucca plant, and Astrantia plants.