If you’re planning your herb garden, a common question is how tall does parsley grow. Knowing the maximum height of parsley helps you place it correctly, so it doesn’t get shaded out or shade other plants.
Parsley is a versatile biennial, usually grown as an annual. Its height can vary quite a bit depending on the type you choose and how you grow it. Let’s look at what you can expect.
How Tall Does Parsley Grow
On average, most parsley plants reach between 8 to 14 inches in height. However, under ideal conditions, they can grow taller. The maximum height of parsley is generally considered to be around 24 to 36 inches, but this is typically only seen in its second year when it flowers.
There are two main types of parsley, and their growth habits are different:
- Curly Leaf Parsley: This is the more compact type. It usually forms a dense, bushy clump of ruffled leaves. It normally stays between 8 and 12 inches tall in the first season.
- Flat-Leaf (Italian) Parsley: This type tends to grow taller and more upright. In its first year, it can easily reach 12 to 18 inches. Its leaves are broader and have a stronger flavor, which many cooks prefer.
What Influences Parsley’s Final Height?
Several key factors determine whether your parsley stays short or reaches for the sky. It’s not just about the seed packet label.
1. Plant Variety and Genetics
This is the starting point. Dwarf cultivars like ‘Moss Curled’ are bred to stay very compact. Meanwhile, a robust Italian variety like ‘Giant of Italy’ is genetically programmed to grow taller. Always check the variety description.
2. Growing Conditions (Sun, Soil, Water)
Parsley thrives in full sun but tolerates light shade. Less than 6 hours of sun can lead to leggy, stretched growth as the plant reaches for light. This can add inches to it’s height but results in a weaker plant.
The soil should be rich, moist, and well-draining. Consistent watering is crucial. Stress from drought or poor soil can stunt growth, keeping plants shorter than their potential.
3. The Biennial Growth Cycle
This is the biggest factor for maximum height. In its first year, parsley focuses on building a leafy rosette. In the second spring, it sends up a tall, central flower stalk (called “bolting”). This stalk can shoot up to 3 feet tall, topped with lacy white flowers. After seeding, the plant dies.
4. Harvesting and Pruning Practices
How you harvest directly controls height and bushiness. Regular picking of the outer stems encourages the plant to grow more leaves from the center, creating a denser, bushier plant rather than a tall one.
How to Manage Your Parsley’s Growth
You probably want lush leaves, not just a tall plant. Here’s how to encourage healthy growth and manage height.
- Choose the Right Spot: Plant in a location that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Ensure the soil is amended with compost.
- Harvest Correctly and Often: Don’t just snip the tops. Cut outer stems at the base, near the soil line. This stimulates new growth from the center and prevents a leggy appearance.
- Prevent Early Bolting: To keep your parsley in its leafy first-year stage, remove any flower buds that appear in the first season. Stress from heat or transplant shock can cause early bolting.
- Provide Consistent Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
- Feed Lightly: A monthly dose of a balanced organic fertilizer or a side-dressing of compost can support steady growth without forcing it.
Common Problems That Affect Height
Sometimes, parsley doesn’t grow as expected. Here’s what might be happening.
- Too Tall and Leggy: This is almost always due to insufficient sunlight. The plant stretches to find more light. The solution is to move it to a sunnier location if possible.
- Stunted Growth: Poor, compacted soil, lack of water, or overcrowding can keep plants tiny. Thin seedlings to about 6-8 inches apart and improve the soil.
- Bolting in First Year: If your parsley suddenly shoots up a tall stalk in year one, it’s stressed. Causes include extreme temperature shifts, root disturbance, or underwatering. Harvest it fully once it bolts, as the leaves become bitter.
Parsley in Containers vs. In-Ground
Where you grow parsley can influence its size. Container-grown parsley often stays slightly smaller due to restricted root space, which can be a good thing for managing height. Use a pot at least 10 inches deep and wide. In-ground parsley, with unlimited root run, has more potential to reach its maximum size, especially if it overwinters and enters its second year.
Remember, the goal for culinary parsley is usually a bushy plant, not necesarily a tall one. By harvesting regularly and providing good care, you’ll get a plentiful supply of leaves from a manageable plant.
FAQ: Your Parsley Height Questions Answered
How tall does parsley get before harvesting?
You can start harvesting when the plant has developed a good set of leaves, typically around 6-8 inches tall. Don’t wait for it to reach maximum height; early and often harvesting is better.
What is the maximum height of parsley in pots?
In containers, parsley usually stays more compact. Curly types may reach 8-10 inches, and flat-leaf varieties might get 12-18 inches, rarely exceeding 24 inches even in its second year if allowed to bolt in the pot.
Does parsley grow back after cutting?
Yes, if you cut it properly. Always cut stems from the outside at the base. New growth will emerge from the center. This is how you keep the plant productive.
How tall does parsley grow when it goes to seed?
This is when it achieves its maximum height of parsley. The flowering stalk can soar to 24-36 inches tall, looking quite different from the low leafy plant you started with.
Should I let my parsley grow tall?
For leaf production, no. Keep it bushy by harvesting. If you want to save seeds or attract beneficial insects, let one or two plants bolt and grow tall in their second year. The flowers are great for pollinators.
Understanding how tall your parsley can grow helps you be a better gardener. You can plan your garden layout better and use harvesting to control the plants shape. Whether you want a low border of curly parsley or a few towering seed producers, you now know how to achieve it. With the right care, this humble herb will thrive in your garden for months.