How to Grow Parsley (UK guide)
Parsley is a popular culinary herb renowned for its fresh taste and bright appearance. It’s simple to grow from seed, making it a staple for any home gardener.
How to grow parsley
Parsley flourishes in full sun or partial shade and thrives with regular picking. It grows well both in garden beds and containers and adds a vibrant, leafy green touch to any kitchen garden.
Fresh Herbs
Fresh flavour, easy to grow, suitable for pots or beds
How to Grow Parsley from Seed
- 01Sow parsley seeds thinly on the surface of moist, peat-free compost in early spring or autumn.
- 02Cover seeds very lightly with a fine layer of compost or vermiculite.
- 03Keep trays or pots at around 15–20°C, and maintain moisture while seeds germinate.
- 04Transplant seedlings carefully to their final position when large enough to handle.
- 05Keep plants well-watered and weed-free to promote healthy growth.
You will need
- 01Moist, fertile soil
- 02Consistent watering
- 03Regular harvesting
- 04Monthly feeding
- 05Protection from slugs
Plant Calendar
Caring for parsley
Light and Position
Prefers a sunny spot but tolerates partial shade, making it versatile for different locations.
Soil
Grows best in well-drained, moisture-retentive soil with plenty of organic matter.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells or when grown in pots.
Harvesting
Regular harvesting encourages bushy growth and delays flowering.
Parsley: FAQs & Common Problems
Parsley FAQs
You can harvest parsley regularly as soon as the plant has several stems. Pick outer stalks weekly to encourage new growth and prolong the harvest through late autumn.
Yes, parsley grows well in containers. Choose a pot at least 20cm deep with good drainage and fill with peat-free, multi-purpose compost. Avoid waterlogging.
Parsley prefers moderately fertile soil. Feed a balanced organic liquid fertiliser monthly during the growing season to support leafy growth.
Water parsley regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially in hot weather or when grown in pots. Avoid letting the compost dry out, but do not overwater.
HERBS: Aromatic fresh leaves to bring life to your kitchen cooking.
