Italian Giant

Parsley

Zone 5a Save Garden

🌱 70d to harvest Upright

Aromatic, vividly green fronds unfurl with a lush, Italian-flat elegance—tender yet substantial, with a clean, bright parsley per…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 13th
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 8th
Harvest Begins	Jul 17th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	28
Harden Off (days)	7

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage early blight/leaf spotting on Italian parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum)?

Leaf spot and related fungal problems often show up as small brown to yellowing spots that spread across leaf surfaces, especially in damp, crowded plantings. Thin plants for airflow, water at the soil line (not the leaves), and remove heavily spotted leaves to slow spread. If it keeps recurring, treat with a labeled copper-based fungicide and repeat according to the label after rain or persistent humidity.

How often should I water Italian giant parsley during its main growing phase (around weeks 3–10)?

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy from establishment through the main growth phase; aim for even moisture in the top 1–2 inches. In warm weather, this usually means watering about 1–2 times per week, but adjust so the soil never dries out completely. If the surface crusts or leaves wilt midday, increase watering frequency; if water pools or the soil stays wet, reduce watering to prevent root issues.

What are the best signs that Italian giant parsley is ready to harvest at about 70 days?

Harvest when the plants have a full rosette of sturdy, well-developed leaves and the leaves are large enough to cut without stripping the crown. You can start selective leaf picking earlier, but for the “Italian giant” size, harvest once most stems hold strong, vigorous foliage around day ~70. For best regrowth, cut outer leaves and leave the inner crown intact so it continues producing.

Aromatic, vividly green fronds unfurl with a lush, Italian-flat elegance—tender yet substantial, with a clean, bright parsley perfume that feels almost luminous in the garden. Italian Giant’s leaves are broad and finely textured, holding their shape beautifully for garnishes and finishing touches, while its vigorous growth keeps harvests coming through the season. Ideal for fresh use, flavorful sauces, and herb-forward flavoring where true parsley character shines.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 28°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

Soak seeds 12–24 hours and keep soil evenly moist—parsley germinates slowly and unevenly if it dries out.