Growing Parsley in Iowa
Iowa’s climate, with cold winters and mild to warm summers, makes parsley a seasonal herb that thrives in the spring and fall. While the growing window is shorter than in some warmer regions, parsley can be a productive addition to an Iowa garden.
Best Time to Plant
In Iowa, the ideal time to plant parsley is in early spring (late April to early May) after the last frost, or in late summer (August) for a fall harvest. Since parsley is frost-tolerant, it can survive light frosts and grow into the early winter if planted in the fall. Start seeds indoors in late winter, 6-8 weeks before the last frost, and transplant them outside once the soil has warmed.
Soil and Watering Needs
Parsley grows well in rich, well-draining soil. Adding compost or well-rotted manure before planting will help improve soil fertility and texture. Iowa’s soil is often fertile, but ensuring proper drainage is important to prevent root rot. Water parsley consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells in the summer.
Sunlight and Temperature
Parsley prefers full sun in Iowa, but it can tolerate partial shade, especially in the hotter months. Iowa’s moderate summers make it ideal for parsley, but in the peak of summer, partial shade during the hottest part of the day will prevent the plant from wilting. Ideal daytime temperatures for parsley range from 60-70°F, so aim to grow parsley during the cooler parts of the growing season.
Harvesting Tips
Harvest parsley once the plant reaches around 8 inches in height. Cut the outer leaves first, and let the inner leaves continue growing. Regular harvesting keeps the plant producing and prevents it from going to seed (bolting), which can happen when temperatures rise in late summer. Fall-planted parsley can sometimes survive into the winter with protection, allowing you to harvest even later in the season.
