How to Grow Parsley in New York
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a biennial herb often grown as an annual in the cool climate of New York. It’s a versatile herb used in cooking and garnishes, and it can thrive in New York’s varied weather conditions with proper care.
1. Choosing the Right Variety
Parsley comes in two main varieties:
- Curly Leaf Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Commonly used as a garnish, this variety has tightly curled leaves and is decorative in the garden.
- Flat-Leaf or Italian Parsley (Petroselinum neapolitanum): Preferred for its stronger flavor and ease of chopping, it’s a favorite for cooking.
2. When to Plant
Parsley is a cool-season herb that can tolerate light frost, making it ideal for early planting in New York. The best time to plant parsley is in early spring, around mid-April to early May, after the soil has warmed to about 50°F.
Starting from Seed:
- Start parsley seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost, typically in early February.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors once the soil is warm and all danger of frost has passed.
Starting from Transplants:
- Buy young plants from a nursery and transplant them outside in mid- to late spring.
3. Soil Preparation
Parsley prefers rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. New York’s soil can be clay-heavy, so it may need some preparation.
Soil Tips:
- Add organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to enrich the soil and improve drainage.
- If necessary, amend the soil with sand or perlite to enhance drainage.
4. Sunlight and Watering
Parsley grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially during New York’s hot summer afternoons.
Watering Tips:
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.
5. Mulching and Weed Control
Mulching helps parsley stay cool in New York’s sometimes unpredictable weather. Apply a light layer of mulch, such as straw or compost, around the base of the plant to suppress weeds and maintain moisture.
Weed regularly, especially when the plants are young, as weeds can compete for nutrients and space.
6. Pruning and Maintenance
Parsley requires minimal pruning but benefits from regular harvesting to encourage more growth.
Pruning Tips:
- Snip outer leaves regularly for kitchen use, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing.
- Remove yellowing or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy and tidy.
7. Pests and Diseases
Parsley is relatively pest-free but can occasionally suffer from issues like aphids, spider mites, and carrot rust flies in New York.
Pest Control Tips:
- Inspect plants regularly and remove any pests by hand or with insecticidal soap.
- Plant parsley near companion plants like tomatoes or carrots to deter pests.
8. Harvesting
Parsley can be harvested as soon as the leaves are large enough to use, typically about 70-90 days after planting. Regular harvesting will encourage continuous growth.
Harvesting Tips:
- Cut the outer leaves from the plant, leaving the inner growth to continue developing.
- Harvest parsley in the morning for the best flavor.
Conclusion
Parsley is a cool-season herb that thrives in New York’s spring and fall weather. With proper soil preparation, consistent watering, and regular harvesting, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh parsley throughout the growing season. Whether you’re growing curly or flat-leaf parsley, this herb will add flavor to your dishes and beauty to your garden.
