How to Grow Parsley in New Hampshire: A Biennial Herb
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a versatile, nutritious herb that grows well in New Hampshire’s cool, temperate climate. Though parsley is technically a biennial, it is often grown as an annual for its leaves. With proper care, you can grow a healthy parsley crop throughout New Hampshire’s growing season.
New Hampshire’s Climate
New Hampshire’s climate features cold winters and cool to mild summers, which is ideal for parsley, a cool-season herb. Parsley grows best in temperatures between 50°F and 70°F, so it can be planted early in the spring and again in late summer for a fall crop.
Preparing the Soil
Parsley thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. New Hampshire’s soil tends to be rocky or clay-heavy in some areas, so it’s important to loosen the soil and amend it with compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Raised beds or containers are great options for growing parsley, especially in areas with less-than-ideal soil conditions.
Planting Parsley
In New Hampshire, parsley can be sown directly into the garden after the last frost, usually around mid to late April. Parsley seeds can take up to three weeks to germinate, so soaking the seeds overnight before planting can speed up the process.
Plant parsley seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them about 6 to 8 inches apart. If transplanting seedlings, wait until the soil has warmed up to at least 50°F before planting. Parsley grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in New Hampshire’s hot summer months.
Watering and Care
Parsley requires consistent moisture, so water it regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and prevent weeds from competing with parsley for nutrients.
Parsley is a relatively low-maintenance herb, but removing any yellow or damaged leaves will keep the plant looking healthy and encourage better growth.
Harvesting Parsley
You can begin harvesting parsley once the plant has produced enough leaves to sustain continued growth, typically when it reaches 6 to 8 inches tall. Harvest the outer leaves first, allowing the inner leaves to keep growing.
Parsley can be harvested continuously throughout the growing season. For the best flavor, harvest in the morning when the oils in the leaves are most concentrated. Parsley can be dried or frozen for long-term storage.
