Pennsylvania’s short growing season makes an early indoor start for parsley seeds a smart move. Knowing the best time to plant parsley in pennsylvania is the key to a steady harvest of this versatile herb. Parsley is a biennial that behaves like an annual in our climate, so timing matters more than you might think.
Parsley seeds are notoriously slow to germinate, often taking 2 to 4 weeks. If you wait until the ground warms up in late spring, you might miss the window for a full harvest before frost returns. That’s why planning your planting date around Pennsylvania’s last frost date is essential.
Best Time To Plant Parsley In Pennsylvania
The ideal window for planting parsley in Pennsylvania depends on whether you start seeds indoors or direct sow. For most gardeners, the best time to plant parsley in pennsylvania is 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected spring frost. This usually falls between mid-February and early March for central and southern parts of the state.
For northern Pennsylvania, including areas near the Poconos or Erie, aim for late March to early April. If you prefer direct sowing, wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 50°F, which typically happens in late April or early May. Parsley seeds germinate best when soil is between 50°F and 70°F.
Understanding Pennsylvania’s Growing Zones
Pennsylvania spans USDA hardiness zones 5a to 7b. This affects your planting calendar significantly. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Zone 5a/b (northern PA): Last frost around May 15–20. Start seeds indoors by March 1.
- Zone 6a/b (central PA): Last frost around April 25–May 5. Start seeds indoors by February 20.
- Zone 7a/b (southeastern PA): Last frost around April 10–20. Start seeds indoors by February 10.
Always check your local frost dates using the Pennsylvania Extension Service resources. A simple soil thermometer is your best friend for direct sowing.
Indoor Seed Starting Schedule
Starting parsley indoors gives you a head start. Follow these steps for success:
- Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before planting. This softens the seed coat and speeds germination.
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Use small pots or cell trays.
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Cover trays with plastic wrap to retain humidity.
- Place trays in a warm spot, around 70°F. A heat mat helps maintain temperature.
- Provide bright light once seedlings emerge. A grow light or sunny windowsill works.
- Thin seedlings to one per pot when they have two sets of true leaves.
- Harden off seedlings for 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors.
Transplant parsley outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil is workable. Space plants 6–8 inches apart in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade.
Direct Sowing Tips For Pennsylvania
If you prefer direct sowing, wait until soil warms up. Parsley seeds germinate slowly, so be patient. Here’s how to do it right:
- Prepare the bed by loosening soil to 6 inches deep. Mix in compost for nutrients.
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 2 inches apart. Cover lightly with soil.
- Water gently with a fine spray to avoid displacing seeds.
- Keep soil moist until seedlings appear, which may take 2–4 weeks.
- Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart once they reach 2 inches tall.
Direct sowing works best in late April or early May for most of Pennsylvania. In warmer zones like 7a, you can sow as early as mid-April. In colder zones, wait until mid-May.
Fall Planting For A Second Harvest
Parsley can also be planted in late summer for a fall harvest. This is a great way to extend your growing season. The best time to plant parsley in pennsylvania for fall is 8–10 weeks before the first expected frost.
For most of Pennsylvania, this means planting in late July or early August. Direct sow seeds in a spot that gets afternoon shade to protect them from heat. Keep soil consistently moist during germination.
Fall-planted parsley often tastes sweeter because cooler temperatures concentrate sugars. You can harvest until a hard freeze kills the plants. Mulching around the base can protect roots and extend harvest into early winter.
Overwintering Parsley In Pennsylvania
Parsley is biennial, meaning it lives for two years. In milder winters, it can survive with protection. In Pennsylvania’s colder zones, overwintering is tricky but possible.
- Apply a thick layer of straw or mulch around plants after the first frost.
- Cover with a frost blanket or row cover during extreme cold spells.
- In zones 5 and 6, parsley rarely survives the winter outdoors. Consider moving potted plants indoors.
- In zones 7a and 7b, parsley may survive with heavy mulching and snow cover.
If you want parsley year-round, grow it in containers and bring them inside before frost. Place pots in a sunny window or under grow lights.
Soil Preparation And Site Selection
Parsley grows best in rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Test your soil before planting. Add lime if pH is too low, or sulfur if too high.
Choose a location that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. In hot summers, afternoon shade prevents bolting. Parsley bolts when temperatures exceed 85°F, sending up a flower stalk and turning bitter.
Prepare the bed by removing weeds and rocks. Mix in 2–3 inches of compost or well-rotted manure. This improves drainage and provides nutrients.
Watering And Fertilizing
Parsley needs consistent moisture. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Aim for 1–2 inches of water per week. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize sparingly. Too much nitrogen produces lush leaves but reduces flavor. Use a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 at planting time. Side-dress with compost mid-season if leaves look pale.
Companion Planting With Parsley
Parsley is a great companion for many vegetables. It attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps. Plant it near:
- Tomatoes: Parsley repels tomato hornworms.
- Asparagus: Parsley deters asparagus beetles.
- Roses: Parsley improves rose health and fragrance.
- Corn: Parsley attracts predators that eat corn earworms.
Avoid planting parsley near mint or lettuce, as they compete for nutrients. Parsley also does well with chives, basil, and carrots.
Common Parsley Varieties For Pennsylvania
Choose varieties that perform well in Pennsylvania’s climate. Here are top picks:
- Italian Flat-Leaf: More flavorful and heat-tolerant than curly types. Great for cooking.
- Curly Parsley: Decorative and milder. Used as garnish and in salads.
- Hamburg Parsley: Grown for its edible root. Tastes like celery and parsnip.
- Giant of Italy: Large leaves and vigorous growth. Ideal for zone 6 and 7.
All varieties can be grown in Pennsylvania. Flat-leaf types are easier to clean and preferred for cooking. Curly types hold up better in cold weather.
Harvesting Parsley Correctly
Harvest parsley when stems have at least three segments. Cut outer stems at the base, leaving inner stems to grow. Never harvest more than one-third of the plant at once.
Harvest in the morning when oil content is highest. Rinse and dry leaves before storing. Parsley keeps in the refrigerator for up to two weeks if wrapped in a damp paper towel.
You can also freeze or dry parsley. Freezing preserves flavor better than drying. Chop leaves and freeze in ice cube trays with water or oil.
Pests And Diseases In Pennsylvania
Parsley is relatively pest-free, but a few issues arise. Watch for:
- Swallowtail caterpillars: These eat leaves but are beneficial butterflies. Hand-pick or leave them.
- Aphids: Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Leaf spot: Avoid overhead watering. Remove infected leaves.
- Root rot: Ensure good drainage. Don’t overwater.
Pennsylvania’s humid summers can cause fungal diseases. Space plants for air circulation and water at soil level.
Using Parsley In The Kitchen
Parsley is more than a garnish. Use it fresh in tabbouleh, salads, and sauces. Add it to soups, stews, and roasted vegetables. Parsley pairs well with garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
Flat-leaf parsley is best for cooking because it holds up to heat. Curly parsley works for garnishing and cold dishes. Both are rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
Store fresh parsley in a glass of water on the counter, like cut flowers. Change water every few days. This keeps it fresh for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant parsley in Pennsylvania in the summer?
Yes, but summer heat causes bolting. Plant in late summer for fall harvest. Provide shade and consistent moisture.
How long does parsley take to grow from seed in Pennsylvania?
Parsley takes 70–90 days from seed to harvest. Starting indoors speeds this up significantly.
What is the latest time to plant parsley in Pennsylvania?
For fall harvest, plant by early August. For spring harvest, plant indoors by early March.
Does parsley come back every year in Pennsylvania?
Parsley is biennial and usually dies after two years. In mild winters, it may survive. Most gardeners treat it as an annual.
Can I grow parsley indoors in Pennsylvania year-round?
Yes. Use a sunny windowsill or grow lights. Parsley grows well indoors in containers with proper care.
Final Tips For Success
Parsley is a forgiving herb once established. The biggest challenge is germination. Be patient and keep soil moist. If seeds fail, try soaking them longer or using fresh seeds.
In Pennsylvania, timing is everything. Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. For direct sowing, wait until soil is warm. For fall harvest, plant in late July or early August.
With the right timing and care, you’ll have fresh parsley from spring through fall. It’s a rewarding herb that adds flavor and nutrition to your meals. Happy gardening in the Keystone State.