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Curled Parsley Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Updated: August 26, 2022

Curled parsley is a popular herb for culinary use, and many people choose to grow it in their own gardens. Parsley is an easy-to-grow herb that adds flavor and nutrition to dishes, and it can be harvested throughout the growing season. However, if you want to grow curled parsley from seed, you’ll need to know how to properly store, sow, and germinate the seeds.

Storing Curled Parsley Seeds

The first step in growing curled parsley from seed is to obtain high-quality seeds. You can purchase these from a reputable seed supplier or harvest seeds from an existing plant. If you choose to harvest your own seeds, wait until the flowers have dried out and turned brown. Then, shake the seeds out of the flowers and store them in a cool, dry place.

If you purchase your seeds, they will likely come in a packet with instructions on how to store them. Generally speaking, parsley seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place like a pantry or refrigerator. They can last for up to three years if stored properly.

Sowing Curled Parsley Seeds

Once you have your high-quality curled parsley seeds, it’s time to sow them. You can start your seeds indoors or outdoors, depending on your climate and personal preference.

Indoor Seed Starting

Indoor seed starting allows you to get a head start on the growing season and ensures that your plants will be ready to transplant outside when the weather warms up. To start your parsley seeds indoors:

  1. Fill a seed tray with potting soil.
  2. Moisten the soil so it’s damp but not soaking wet.
  3. Sprinkle the parsley seeds over the soil.
  4. Cover the tray with plastic wrap or a clear lid.
  5. Place the tray in a warm, bright location.

Your parsley seeds should germinate within two to four weeks. Once they have sprouted, remove the plastic wrap or lid and move the tray to a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.

Outdoor Seed Sowing

If you live in a climate with mild winters, you can sow your parsley seeds directly in the garden in the fall. The seeds will overwinter and begin to grow when the weather warms up in the spring. To sow your parsley seeds outdoors:

  1. Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun.
  2. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 6 inches.
  3. Scatter the parsley seeds over the soil.
  4. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
  5. Water gently.

Your parsley seeds should germinate in two to four weeks.

Germinating Curled Parsley Seeds

Germinating parsley seeds is relatively easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure success:

  • Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
  • Provide plenty of light, whether that’s natural sunlight or grow lights.
  • Keep the temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Parsley seeds should germinate within two to four weeks.

FAQ

How often should I water my parsley seeds?

Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil daily and water when it feels dry to the touch.

How much light do parsley seeds need?

Parsley seeds need plenty of light to germinate and grow. If you’re starting your seeds indoors, place them in a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.

Can I plant parsley seeds outside in the spring?

Yes, you can plant parsley seeds outside in the spring after the last frost date for your area. Make sure to choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil.

How long does it take for parsley seeds to germinate?

Parsley seeds should germinate within two to four weeks.

Can I use curled parsley seeds for flat-leaved parsley?

No, curled parsley seeds and flat-leaved parsley seeds are two different types of seeds. Make sure you’re using the correct type of seed for the variety of parsley you want to grow.