How to Grow Parsley at Home – Indoors or Outdoors

Parsley is more than just a garnish—this nutrient-rich herb is a staple in many dishes and is surprisingly easy to grow. Whether you want to plant it in your garden bed, balcony, or kitchen counter, parsley thrives with basic care and regular harvesting.

This guide will show you exactly how to grow parsley successfully in pots or in soil, from seed to harvest.

Two Main Types of Parsley

• Flat-leaf parsley (Italian): Stronger flavor, best for cooking

• Curly-leaf parsley: Decorative, milder taste

Both grow well under the same conditions and can be harvested similarly.

How to Plant Parsley

• From seed: Soak seeds in warm water overnight for better germination

• Planting depth: ¼ inch deep

• Spacing: 6–8 inches between plants

• Light: 6 hours of sun daily (partial shade in hot zones)

Parsley grows slowly at first—be patient, especially during the germination stage (can take 14–21 days).

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Soil: Loamy, well-draining soil rich in organic matter

• pH level: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, not soggy

• Container: Minimum 6–8 inches deep if growing in pots

Add mulch around the base to retain moisture if outdoors.

How to Harvest Parsley

• Wait until the plant has at least 3 mature stems

• Cut stems from the base (not just the tops)

• Always harvest from the outer edges first

• Frequent harvesting promotes new, healthy growth

Avoid removing more than ⅓ of the plant at once.

Indoor Care Tips

• Place near a south-facing window or under grow lights

• Rotate the pot weekly to ensure even growth

• Keep away from heat vents or cold drafts

If leaves turn yellow, it's usually a sign of overwatering or lack of light.

Common Parsley Problems

• Slow growth: Normal at first; ensure consistent warmth and moisture

• Leaf spots: Could be fungal—improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering

• Aphids or whiteflies: Spray with neem oil weekly as prevention