When can I plant parsley outside?

Direct sow or transplant 4 weeks before your last spring frost.

How long until parsley is ready to harvest?

70-90 days. Harvest outer stems at base; leave center growth intact; cut regularly to encourage new growth

When to Plant Parsley

Petroselinum crispum

herbZones 3–10beginner

Versatile biennial herb available in flat-leaf (Italian) and curly varieties. Rich in vitamins and minerals. Slow to germinate but produces abundantly once established.

Planting calendar

Start seeds indoors

8 weeks before your last spring frost.

Direct sow / transplant

4 weeks before your last spring frost.

Seeds are very slow to germinate (3-4 weeks); soak in warm water overnight to speed up

Spacing & harvest

Plant spacing: 6-8 inches
Row spacing: 12-18 inches
Days to harvest: 70-90 days
Ready when: Harvest outer stems at base; leave center growth intact; cut regularly to encourage new growth

Companion planting

Plant near

Tomato — Attracts beneficial insects that prey on tomato pests
Asparagus — Attracts beneficial insects

Get parsley planting dates for your exact zone

Lawn Guardian turns this guidance into a schedule timed to your USDA zone and this week's actual weather — and adapts every time you log what you've done.

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Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns