PARSLEY - ITALIAN FLAT GIANT

Organic Parsley Italian Flat Giant 

    200 Seeds Pack   

Italian parsley, also known as flat-leaf parsley, is a versatile and aromatic herb that grows compactly, reaching about one foot in height and spreading to a similar width. This multi-branched plant features bright green, tender stems when young, which become woody as the plant matures. Its flat, triangular leaves are deeply toothed and divided into three sections, with clusters of leaves adorning the tops of the stems.

Compared to the curly variety, Italian parsley is hardier, with a stronger aroma and flavour profile. Its taste is often described as fresh and green, with subtle hints of citrus, clove, nutmeg, and an earthy undertone. This robust flavour makes it a favourite among chefs and home cooks for use in soups, salads, sauces, and garnishes.

In its second year, Italian parsley shifts from leafy growth to flowering, producing delicate, circular clusters of small white blossoms atop slender stems. This biennial plant thrives in rich, well-moisturized soil and performs best in regions with cooler summers, as excessive heat and humidity can hinder its growth. Italian parsley is available year-round, making it a staple in herb gardens and kitchens alike. 

      PLANTING & GROWING

The aromatic herb can grow in plant containers in your balcony garden or inside near a sunny window.

Soaking needs to be done at least a few hours before planting, and preferably overnight. To prevent damping off when starting seeds indoors, it’s essential that you disinfect all of your pots, plastic grow trays, seed cells, and seedling tray covers before you reuse them.  

Parsley thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers full sun or partial shade. It grows best in light, neutral soils and struggles in overly acidic or sandy conditions. Germination takes 2-3 weeks with bottom heat or 4-6 weeks without it. Once seedlings are large enough and mid-spring temperatures rise, transplant them into containers or a prepared garden bed, spacing plants 15cm (6”) apart.

For direct sowing, plant seeds thinly in rows 30-45cm (12-18”) apart and about 3cm (1”) deep, keeping the soil consistently moist to ensure germination. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 8cm (3”) apart and later to 15cm (6”) apart for optimal growth.

Parsley is an excellent companion plant, especially for roses, tomatoes, carrots, chives, and asparagus, as it boosts their vigor and helps repel pests such as carrot root flies and rose beetles. However, avoid planting parsley near alliums, dill, or cilantro, as these can cross-pollinate and affect parsley’s growth.