How to Harvest Parsley: Tips and Tricks for the Best Results

Parsley is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and sauces. The best part about growing your own parsley is that you can harvest it fresh whenever you need it. However, knowing when and how to harvest parsley can be tricky. In this article, we'll share some tips and tricks for harvesting parsley so you can get the most out of your crop.

1. When to harvest parsley

The first thing to consider when harvesting parsley is when to do it. Parsley can be harvested once it has grown to a height of about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) and has several stems with leaves on each one. You can begin harvesting when the plant is about 70 days old.

It's important to note that parsley is a biennial plant, which means that it will produce leaves during its first year and then flower and go to seed in its second year. To ensure that you get the most flavorful leaves, it's best to harvest parsley during its first year of growth.

2. How to harvest parsley

Now that you know when to harvest parsley, the next step is to learn how to do it properly. Here's what you should do:

• Use a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems of the parsley plant.
• Start by harvesting the outer stems first, working your way inward as needed.
• Leave at least an inch or two of stem attached to the plant, as this will encourage new growth.
• If any stems are yellowing or have begun to flower, remove them completely to keep the plant healthy.
• Remember to give the parsley plant time to recover after each harvest before harvesting again.

3. How often to harvest parsley

When it comes to how often to harvest parsley, the general rule of thumb is to do it frequently but sparingly. This means that you should aim to harvest a few stems every week rather than waiting for the entire plant to mature before harvesting.

Harvesting parsley frequently will not only give you a steady supply of fresh herbs but will also help to keep the plant healthy and encourage new growth.

4. Storing harvested parsley

Once you've harvested your parsley, it's important to store it properly to ensure maximum freshness and flavor. Here are some tips:

• Rinse the parsley under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
• Dry the parsley thoroughly using a salad spinner or paper towels.
• Wrap the parsley loosely in a damp paper towel or place it in a plastic bag with a few drops of water.
• Store the parsley in the refrigerator, where it should keep for up to a week.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the parsley in an airtight container or plastic bag. Alternatively, you can chop the parsley and freeze it in ice cube trays with a little bit of water, then use the frozen cubes as needed in recipes.

5. Using harvested parsley

Now that you know how to harvest and store parsley, the final step is to put it to good use! Here are some ideas for using your freshly harvested parsley:

• Add chopped parsley to soups and stews for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use parsley in marinades and dressings for a fresh, herbal taste.
• Sprinkle chopped parsley over roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
• Make homemade tabbouleh or other Middle Eastern dishes that feature parsley as a main ingredient.
• Blend parsley with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to make a flavorful pesto.

A bunch of fresh parsley on white background

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