How to Plant Parsley Seeds

How to Plant Parsley Indoors

For early sowing, plant parsley seeds in small pots or jars and keep them at around 15°C. Lightly cover the seeds with about ¼ inch of soil and keep the compost moist. Parsley can also be grown indoors all year round on a warm, bright windowsill.

If you prefer to grow outdoors, sow seeds 1.5 cm (½ inch) deep into finely prepared soil once temperatures are consistently warm. Choose the final growing position carefully, as parsley does best when left undisturbed.

Where to Place Your Indoor Herb Garden

Place your parsley in a warm, sunny window with plenty of natural light. Avoid drafty spots or windows that become very cold at night. Rotate your pots regularly so the plants grow upright rather than leaning toward the light.

Using grow lights?

  • Keep them on for 14 hours a day using a timer.

  • Position them a few inches above the seedlings.

  • Raise the lights as the plants grow taller.

If plants become leggy, move the lights closer. If leaves show pale or white spots, the lights are too close. Thin out crowded seedlings using scissors to promote airflow and stronger growth.


When to Water Parsley

Water lightly once per day to keep the soil evenly moist—but avoid over-watering. If parsley plants begin to crowd the pot, thin them out with scissors so each plant has room to develop.


How to Harvest Parsley Indoors

You can harvest parsley all year round by picking a few leaves from each plant. This encourages fast, healthy regrowth.

Parsley grows well indoors on a windowsill throughout the year. In autumn, you can dig up a small outdoor clump, repot it, and bring it indoors for fresh herbs during the winter months.

Parsley is rich in Vitamins K, A, C, and iron, making it a nutritious addition to soups, stews, salads, and garnishes.


How Long Does Parsley Take to Grow?

Parsley seeds can be slow and erratic to germinate, sometimes taking up to 6 weeks—so patience is key. Keep the soil moist, especially during dry weather or warm indoor conditions.