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Herbs - Parsley
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'Q' (Question)  I planted parsley seeds over two weeks ago, and still there is nothing coming up. How long does it take parsley to germinate? Do you think I may still get some plants, or did I get bad seed?

'A' (Answer)  Parsley germination can be quite slow unless you pretreat the seeds. An old saying has it that parsley seed must go to the devil and back seven times before the seed will germinate. On its own, it can take three weeks before you see sprouts. Presoaking the seeds in warm water overnight before planting can help to speed things up. For now, be patient, or go buy some small transplants. them back by half. Move the plants outside and they should thrive.

'Q' (Question)  I would like to plant parsley this winter for extra color in my garden, but my seeds haven’t come up. I figure we’re getting too late now for the seedlings to even survive. What do you think?

'A' (Answer)  Parsley is slow to germinate from seed. An old wive’s tale, claims the seeds go to the devil and back several times before they come up, but regardless of when they germinate, they wouldn’t be able to be planted outside for at least six to eight weeks later. Then the winter temperatures would be too much for them. Why don’t you continue to wait on your seedlings for a spring planting, and buy some plants at a local nursery. That way you can get a full plant that can give you bright green color all winter long. Parsley looks great planted with pansies and other winter color.


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