(P e t r o s e l i n u m h o r t e n s i s)
Description:
* Parsley is a biennial plant and is in the same family as dill.
* As a garnish and chewing on a few leaves will help freshen one's breath.
* Curly leaved parsley is the most well known and commonly available herb; it contains vitamins A and C as well as other valuable antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
* Flat-leaf varieties: Use in cooking because they have better flavor and are easier to work with than curly-leaf parsley.
* Curly-leaf varieties: Use when you want a fancier garnish
* Harvest in 75 days. Harvest the leaves as needed, taking the large outer leaves first and removing at least 10" of stem with the leaves to keep the plant healthy. The whole plant can be harvested at once, cutting it off just above ground level; more leaves will grow.
How to grow:
* Germination: 14 to 28 days (Slow germination)
* Parsley can be difficult to germinate. To increase the germination rate, soak in warm water for 24 hours and then freeze for a week before planting.
* Plant seeds ¼ inch deep. Transplant can be done after 4 - 6 weeks and space plants 4 to 6 inches apart.
* Prefers full sun to partial shade and well drained rich soil.