Start indoors or direct sow?

Start parsley indoors and transplant it for an earlier, more reliable crop. It can be direct sown, but slow and uneven germination makes weeds harder to manage.

When to start Parsley seeds

Start indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the average last spring frost. Direct sow outdoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost, once the soil is workable.

How to sow the seeds

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in a sterile, finely textured seed-starting mix. Use cells or small pots at least 2 inches deep because parsley develops a taproot. Keep containers warm and covered only until seedlings begin to emerge.

Germination

Germination often takes 14 to 28 days, sometimes longer. Soil temperatures around 65 to 75 F and steady moisture improve results. Do not let the mix dry out during this long waiting period.

Seedling care

After emergence, provide strong light for 14 to 16 hours daily and good airflow. Water gently whenever the surface begins to dry, and avoid keeping the mix constantly wet to prevent damping off. Thin to one strong seedling per cell if several emerge.

Transplanting & hardening off

Harden seedlings off for 7 to 10 days before moving them outside. Transplant after the risk of severe frost has passed, keeping the root ball intact and planting at the same depth. Space plants about 8 to 12 inches apart.

Tips

Soaking seeds in water for several hours before sowing may help speed germination. Label pots and be patient, because parsley seedlings are easy to mistake for weeds when direct sown.

General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.