How To Grow Parsley in Australia

Quick Guide: Growing Parsley in Australia

• Optimal Growing Temperatures: Between 10°C and 30°C.
• Ready to Harvest: 9-19 weeks after planting.
• Space Between Plants: Plant 20-30 cm apart.
• Companion Plants: Carrots, Chives, Tomatoes (See More)
• Plants to Avoid: None (See More)
• Plant Type: Seed.

When to Plant Parsley in Australia

Tropical

Best planting months for Parsley in the Tropical regions are March to July. This includes areas like Cairns, Darwin, and Broome.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec

Subtropical

For the Subtropical region, parsley can be planted from January to June. Cities in the Subtropical region include Brisbane, Central Coast, and Sydney.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec

Temperate

Parsley can be planted year round in the Temperate regions of Australia. Cities in the Temperate region include Melbourne, Adelaide, Geelong, and Perth.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec

Cool

For the Cool region, parsley can be planted from January to April and August to December. Cities in the Cool region include alpine regions of Victoria and Tasmania.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec

Arid

Best planting months for parsley in the Arid region are January to June.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec

Getting Started with Parsley

As an organic gardener, growing parsley in Australia has been a rewarding journey for me. In this section, I will share my tips and experiences to help you get started with growing parsley successfully.

Choosing the Right Variety for Australian Climate

When it comes to parsley, there are two main varieties to choose from: flat-leaf parsley (also known as Italian parsley) and curly parsley. Both varieties thrive well in the Australian climate, but each has its own unique characteristics.

• Flat-leaf parsley: This variety features flat, dark green leaves with a robust flavour. It is commonly preferred for its stronger taste and is often used in cooking and garnishing dishes. Flat-leaf parsley is more tolerant of heat and has a higher concentration of essential oils, giving it a more intense flavour.
• Curly parsley: Known for its tightly curled, bright green leaves, curly parsley has a milder flavour compared to flat-leaf parsley. It is often used as a decorative garnish and adds a fresh touch to salads and other dishes. Curly parsley is slightly more delicate and may require some extra care in hot weather.

Choose the variety that suits your taste preferences and culinary needs. Both varieties can be grown successfully in Australian gardens. For more information on growing other vegetables and herbs, check out our articles like rhubarb, silverbeet, and amaranth. 

Preparing the Soil for Parsley

Parsley thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, it's important to prepare the soil to provide the best-growing conditions for your parsley plants.

1. Choose a sunny location: Parsley prefers full sun or partial shade. Select a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
2. Loosen the soil: Use a garden fork or a tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of about 8 inches (20 cm). This helps to improve drainage and allows the parsley roots to penetrate easily.
3. Amend the soil: Mix plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil. This helps to improve the soil structure and nutrient content. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0, which is optimal for parsley growth.
4. Remove any weeds: Before planting your parsley, remove any weeds or grass from the planting area. This helps to minimise competition for nutrients and water.

Once the soil is prepared, you are ready to move on to the next steps of planting and caring for your parsley. In the next section, we will explore the process of sowing parsley seeds and transplanting seedlings. Stay tuned!

Planting and Caring for Parsley

When it comes to growing parsley in Australia, proper planting and care are essential for a successful harvest. In this section, I will guide you through the steps of sowing parsley seeds, transplanting parsley seedlings, and watering and fertilising parsley.

Sowing Parsley Seeds

To start growing parsley, you can sow seeds directly in the soil or begin with seedlings. If you choose to sow seeds, follow these steps:

1. Choose a well-draining location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Parsley can tolerate partial shade, making it suitable for various garden spaces.
2. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris. Ensure that the soil is loose and fertile. If needed, enrich the soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve its nutrient content.
3. Sow the parsley seeds about 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 6 to 8 inches apart. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and gently pat it down.
4. Water the area gently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to seed rotting or fungal diseases.
5. Parsley seeds typically take 2 to 4 weeks to germinate. During this time, ensure that the soil remains consistently moist. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out, leaving the strongest ones spaced at least 6 inches apart.

Transplanting Parsley Seedlings

If you prefer to start with seedlings, follow these steps:

1. Purchase healthy parsley seedlings from a reputable nursery or start your own indoors using peat pots or seed trays.
2. Choose a location with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight. Prepare the soil as mentioned earlier.
3. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the seedling. Gently remove the seedling from its container and place it in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
4. Backfill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the base of the seedling. Water the area thoroughly to settle the soil.
5. Space the parsley seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart to allow proper airflow and prevent overcrowding.

Watering and Fertilizing Parsley

Parsley requires consistent moisture to thrive. Water the plants regularly, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist. However, avoid overwatering, as parsley prefers slightly drier conditions compared to other herbs. To avoid waterlogging, ensure that the soil has good drainage.

When it comes to fertilising parsley, a balanced organic fertiliser applied every 4 to 6 weeks can provide the necessary nutrients. Alternatively, you can incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting to provide a nutrient-rich environment.

Remember to check the moisture levels of the soil before watering and adjust accordingly. It's also a good practice to mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

By following these steps for sowing, transplanting, and caring for parsley, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this versatile herb. For more information on growing other vegetables and herbs in Australia, check out our comprehensive A-Z Grow Guides section. Happy gardening!

Harvesting and Using Parsley

Once your parsley plants have grown and flourished, it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Harvesting parsley at the right time ensures the best flavour and freshness. In this section, I will guide you on when to harvest parsley, as well as provide tips on preserving parsley and share some delicious recipes that make the most of this versatile herb.

When to Harvest Parsley

Parsley leaves can be harvested as soon as they become large enough to use. It's generally recommended to wait until the plant has reached a height of around 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) before harvesting. At this stage, the leaves will have developed their characteristic vibrant green colour and distinct aroma.

To harvest parsley, simply snip off the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves and central stalk intact. This allows the plant to continue growing and producing more leaves for future harvests. Regular harvesting promotes bushier growth, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh parsley throughout the growing season.

Preserving Parsley

If you find yourself with an abundance of parsley, preserving it allows you to enjoy its flavour and nutritional benefits even after the growing season. One popular method of preserving parsley is freezing. Simply wash and pat dry the parsley leaves, then finely chop them. Place the chopped parsley in ice cube trays, fill each compartment with a little water, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the parsley cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. These frozen parsley cubes can be added directly to soups, stews, sauces, or other dishes whenever you need a burst of fresh parsley flavour.

Another way to preserve parsley is by drying. Gather a bunch of parsley stems and tie them together at the base with twine or a rubber band. Hang the bunch upside down in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once the leaves are completely dry and crumbly, remove them from the stems and store them in an airtight container. Dried parsley can be used as a seasoning or added to herbal tea blends.

Growing and harvesting parsley is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy this flavorful herb right from your own garden. Whether you use it fresh, preserve it for later, or incorporate it into delicious recipes, parsley is sure to enhance your culinary creations and bring a touch of green goodness to your plate.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

No matter how experienced you are in growing parsley, it's natural to encounter some common issues and challenges along the way. In this section, I will address pests and diseases that can affect parsley plants and provide some tips for successful parsley growth.

Pests and Diseases

Parsley is generally a hardy herb, but it can still fall prey to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:

1. Aphids: These tiny insects can cluster on the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. Regularly inspect your parsley plants and wash them off with a strong jet of water if you notice any aphid infestations.
2. Caterpillars: Caterpillars, such as parsley worms or swallowtail butterfly larvae, may feast on the leaves. Handpick them off the plants or use organic insecticides if necessary.
3. Fungal Diseases: Parsley can be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew or root rot. To prevent these issues, ensure proper air circulation around the plants by planting them with adequate spacing. Avoid overwatering and water the plants at the base to minimise moisture on the leaves.
4. Slugs and Snails: These slimy creatures can chew through parsley leaves, leaving behind ragged edges. Use organic slugs and snail control methods, like beer traps or copper tape, to protect your plants.

Remember, prevention is key to maintaining the health of your parsley plants. Regularly inspect the foliage, practice good garden hygiene, and promptly address any signs of pests or diseases. For more information on dealing with pests and diseases in your organic garden, check out our article on common garden pests.

Tips for Successful Parsley Growth

To ensure the best possible growth and flavour of your parsley, consider the following tips:

1. Location: Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Parsley thrives in well-draining soil, so ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
2. Soil Preparation: Before planting parsley, enrich the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This helps improve soil fertility and moisture retention.
3. Watering: Parsley prefers consistently moist soil, so water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant prevents wetting the foliage, which can encourage fungal diseases.
4. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and keeps the roots cool during hot weather.
5. Harvesting: Harvest parsley by cutting the outer leaves, leaving the centre intact to allow for continued growth. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prevents the plant from bolting.

By following these tips and addressing any issues promptly, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of healthy and flavorful parsley. For more guidance on growing other vegetables and herbs in Australia, check out our collection of A-Z Grow Guides.