Italian “Gigante” Parsley

Biennial, Grown as Annual

Spring/summer/fall harvest.

Frost hardy.

Easiest To Start Outdoors

Start parsley in spring when weather is settled but still cool and/or in late summer in mild winter climates. Plant in full sun or half-day sun if climate is very hot. Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart into a well-worked fertile seed bed. Cover ¼ inch deep. Parsley germinates unevenly over several weeks; be patient and keep seed bed evenly moist. Using synthetic row covers to hold moisture during germination is helpful; remove when seedlings are well established.

To Plant Indoors

Sow parsley seeds in early spring in a container of seed starting mix. Cover ¼ inch deep, and keep con-tainer moist but not soggy until seedlings emerge. Provide a good light source. Feed seedlings frequently until ready to transplant when several inches tall.

Thin or Transplant

Space 3 to 4 inches apart when seedlings are large enough to handle.

Growing Notes

Parsley needs rich moist soil and ample spacing for lush harvests. Thin early and keep well-weeded and watered. Begin to harvest sparingly once plants have 8 to 10 leaves. Fertilize frequently with a high nitrogen source.