PARSLEY, PLAIN/SINGLE 1 LB. EACH

The Plain/Single Parsley is a flat-leafed variety known for its bold flavor and versatility in culinary dishes. With a taste more pronounced than the curly type, this herb is a favorite ingredient in salads, dressings, soups, poultry dishes, and even pesto. 

Easy to grow in gardens or containers, it is a reliable choice for both home gardeners and professional growers. Whether you’re enhancing a dish or adding greenery to your garden, this parsley variety is a flavorful and rewarding herb to cultivate.

Key Characteristics

Plain/Single Parsley is a versatile and resilient herb valued for its culinary and gardening appeal. With its flat, flavorful leaves and adaptable growing conditions, it’s a staple in kitchens and gardens alike. Below are the key characteristics that define Plain/Single Parsley:

Botanical Details

• Type: Flat-leaved parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum)
• Zones: USDA Hardiness Zones 5–9
• Germination Time: 28–42 days
• Days to Maturity: 70–90 days

Growth Specifications

• Maximum Height: 12–24 inches
• Spread: 4–6 inches
• Light Requirements: Full Sun
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil
• Bloom Color: Green (non-ornamental; parsley is primarily valued for its foliage)

Why Grow Plain/Single Parsley?

There are certain reasons why growing Plain/Single Parsley is a great idea.

Bold Culinary Flavor

Unlike the curly parsley variety, flat-leaf parsley delivers a robust and aromatic flavor that improves a variety of dishes:

• Salads and Dressings: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to green salads and vinaigrettes.
• Poultry and Soups: Perfect for seasoning broths, chicken, and hearty stews.
• Pesto and Sauces: Use as an alternative to basil in pestos or as a garnish for pasta dishes.

Easy to Grow

Plain parsley thrives with minimal effort when grown in full sun and well-draining, moist soil. With its ability to grow in USDA Zones 5–9, it adapts to a variety of climates and growing conditions.

Nutritional Benefits

Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, parsley is a powerhouse herb with several health benefits:

• High in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Vitamin A.
• Contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
• Supports digestion when consumed fresh.

Versatile Garden Addition

Parsley is not only useful in the kitchen but also improves your garden:

• Use it as a companion plant for tomatoes and peppers to deter pests.
• Grow it in borders, raised beds, or containers for easy access in your kitchen garden.

How to Grow

Sowing the Seeds

• Germination Time: Parsley seeds take 28–42 days to germinate, so patience is key.
• Soak seeds in water for 12–24 hours before sowing to speed up germination.
• Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-prepared soil.
• Space rows or plants 4–6 inches apart for proper airflow and growth.

Soil and Light Requirements

• Plant parsley in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
• Choose a location with full sun for optimal growth, though parsley can tolerate partial shade.

Watering and Maintenance

• Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Parsley thrives with consistent watering.
• Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting

• Begin harvesting leaves once the plants reach about 6 inches in height (usually 70–90 days after sowing).
• Use sharp scissors to cut stems at the base, encouraging continuous regrowth.
• For the best flavor, harvest early in the day when the essential oils are most concentrated.

Culinary Uses of Parsley

Plain parsley’s strong flavor makes it a kitchen staple for both chefs and home cooks:

• Garnish: Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it on soups, roasted vegetables, or pasta dishes.
• Seasoning: Use as a base for sauces, dressings, and marinades.
• Pesto Alternative: Blend parsley with garlic, olive oil, nuts, and parmesan for a unique pesto.
• Herb Blends: Combine with thyme, oregano, and rosemary for a versatile herb mix.

Growing Tips for Success

• Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is rich in nutrients by incorporating compost or organic matter before planting.
• Succession Planting: Sow parsley seeds every 3–4 weeks for a continuous harvest.
• Pest Control: Keep an eye out for aphids and caterpillars; use organic pest control methods if needed.
• Overwintering: In mild climates, parsley can be overwintered and will continue producing the following spring.