How to Grow Parsley in Raised Beds

How to Grow Parsley

Parsley is slower than basil and tougher than cilantro. Seed can take 2–3 weeks to sprout. It is a biennial: leaves the first year, flowers the second. For kitchen use, treat it as an annual and resow.

Key growing facts for Parsley
Spacing	6–8 in
Soil	Compost-rich, even moisture
Sunlight	6+ hours; light shade in heat
Planting depth	¼ inch
Water	Steady; it sulks if a raised bed dries out
Days to harvest	Often 70–90 days from seed; faster from starts

Soil requirements

Average-to-rich mix. It is a moderate feeder.

Watering

Do not let it wilt repeatedly. Flat-leaf and curly want the same moisture.

Sunlight

Full sun in the North; part afternoon shade in hot summers.

Planting

Soak seed overnight to speed the slow germinate. Or buy transplants.
Harvest outer stems. Leave the center.

Spacing

6–8 inches. A few plants supply a household.

Common problems

Slow germination
Normal. Keep the seedbed moist for weeks, not days.
Swallowtail caterpillars
They eat parsley and dill. Hand-pick or plant extra for them.

Helpful tools

Patience, or transplants

Product links will be added when independently researched. See the garden tools hub for buying criteria.

Frequently asked questions

Curly or flat-leaf parsley?

Flavor is a kitchen choice. Growing conditions are the same. Flat-leaf is what most cooks prefer.