Parsley
Petroselinum
Features
Parsley grows up to 30cm tall with feather-like small leaves which may be flattish or curly depending on the variety. Tiny yellowish green flowers in clusters are producing during summer and produce small brown seeds. The most common varities of this biennial include flat-leaved or Italian parsley and Hamburg or turnip rooted parsley.
Growing Methods
Seeds are usually planted in boxes during warm weather when the soil is warm. They can then be transplanted to the garden once the first true leaves have appeared. Plants should be 25cm apart and can be left to self-sow during summer in the second year of growth.
Keep the soil moist and never let it dry out during dry weather. Pests include parsley worm, root-knot nematode and carrot weevils which will devour the foliage and stunt growth. Little can be done to prevent this so affected plants should be dug up and distroyed.
Harvesting
Always pick parsley from the outside of the plant, frequent pruning will promote growth. Flat-leaf or Italian parsley dries better than curly parsley however curly parsley freezes better when wrapped in plastic wrap.
Uses
Parsley is a vitamin-rich and nutritious herb that is used in salads and as garnish. Parsley is also used as a breath freshener.
