How to grow parsley in pots and keep it going all year

Pot and soil

A pot at least 20 cm (8 in) deep, because it grows a long taproot. A 15-20 cm (6-8 in) wide pot holds 2-3 plants. Rich, free-draining potting mix.

Sun or bright part shade. A few hours of shade help in midsummer; in mild winters it can stay outdoors.

Keep the soil lightly moist: about every 2 days in summer, much less in winter. It dislikes both drought and soggy soil.

A nitrogen-rich leafy-plant feed every 2 weeks in spring and summer.

When it's ready

Stems have at least 3 segments of fully open leaves.

How to harvest

Cut the outer stems at the base and leave the centre growing.

Seeds don't sprout

Parsley takes 2-4 weeks to come up. Soak the seeds overnight before sowing and keep the soil moist.

Yellow leaves

Too much water or too little food. Check drainage and resume feeding.

It flowers and turns bitter

In its second year it bolts: that's the time to sow again.

How long does parsley take to grow?

From seed, 2-3 months before the first cut. From a nursery plant, 4-6 weeks.

How do I harvest parsley?

Cut the outer stems at the base and let the centre keep growing: the plant keeps producing.

Is parsley frost hardy?

Yes, it handles light frost. In cold areas, keep it against a wall in deep winter.