Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
The frilled green of culinary perfection. ‘Moss Curled’ parsley forms tight clusters of finely curled, deep green leaves with rich flavor and tender texture. The taste is fresh and mildly sweet, ideal for garnishing, seasoning, and brightening dishes year-round.
Plants grow 10–12 inches tall and remain compact, lush, and productive throughout the season. Excellent for containers, borders, or garden beds, with strong regrowth after cutting.
A traditional variety cultivated for centuries, ‘Moss Curled’ embodies both beauty and utility—ornamental in the garden, indispensable in the kitchen.
How to Sow and Plant — Moss Curled Parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. crispum)
1. Choosing the Right Location
Light Requirements:
Moss Curled Parsley thrives in full sun, though it tolerates partial shade, especially in hot summer regions. Aim for 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for dense, vibrant foliage.
Soil Requirements:
Prefers well-drained loamy soil enriched with compost or aged organic matter. The ideal soil pH range is 6.0–7.0. Soil should be fertile but not overly rich in nitrogen, which can lead to weaker flavor.
Soil Preparation Tip:
Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of 8–10 inches and incorporate 2–3 inches of compost or leaf mold. For heavy soils, mix in sand or fine perlite to improve drainage.
2. Starting Seeds Indoors
Timing:
Start seeds 8–10 weeks before the last frost date. Parsley seeds are slow to germinate, so early starting ensures transplants are ready for spring planting.
Containers and Medium:
Use deep cell trays or small biodegradable pots filled with a light, moisture-holding seed-starting mix. Moss Curled Parsley forms a fine taproot that benefits from gentle transplanting.
Sowing Depth:
Sow seeds ¼ inch deep, cover lightly with soil, and mist to maintain consistent moisture.
Germination Conditions:
Seeds germinate in 14–28 days at 65–75°F (18–24°C). Pre-soaking seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before planting helps improve germination speed and uniformity.
Light After Germination:
Provide 14–16 hours of light daily under grow lights or in a bright window. Keep lighting close to seedlings to prevent stretching.
3. Transplanting Seedlings
Thinning:
Thin seedlings to one per cell or pot when true leaves appear. Select the strongest plants with well-formed stems and deep green color.
Potting Up:
If needed, transplant to larger pots once seedlings are 3–4 inches tall. Handle gently to avoid root disturbance.
Hardening Off:
Begin hardening off 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors. Gradually expose plants to increasing sunlight and outdoor airflow to strengthen foliage.
4. Planting Outdoors
Timing:
Transplant outdoors once frost danger has passed and soil has warmed above 55°F (13°C).
Planting Depth:
Plant seedlings at the same depth as they grew indoors, keeping crowns just above soil level.
Spacing:
Space plants 8–10 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart. This promotes healthy airflow and easy access for harvesting.
Watering at Planting:
Water thoroughly to settle roots and maintain consistent soil moisture during establishment.
5. Watering and Moisture Management
Provide about 1 inch of water per week, adjusting for rainfall. Keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy.
Mulch with straw, shredded leaves, or compost to conserve moisture and regulate temperature. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, as stress reduces leaf curl quality.
Tip: Deep watering promotes a strong taproot and more resilient, flavorful plants.
6. Temperature and Climate Conditions
Moss Curled Parsley prefers cool to moderate temperatures, growing best between 60–75°F (16–24°C). It tolerates light frost and can overwinter in milder climates under a layer of mulch.
In hot southern areas, provide partial afternoon shade or use row covers to extend the season.
7. Fertility and Soil Feeding
Mix compost into the soil before planting and feed every 4–6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer (e.g., fish emulsion or compost tea).
Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen—this can produce lush but bland leaves. Instead, encourage slow, steady growth for maximum flavor and oil concentration.
Organic Tip: Adding bone meal or kelp meal midseason supports leaf structure and nutrient density.
8. Direct Sowing (Optional)
Timing:
Sow directly in the garden 2–3 weeks before the last frost, or in early autumn for overwintering in mild climates.
Sowing Depth:
Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in fine soil and keep consistently moist during germination.
Thinning:
Thin seedlings to 8 inches apart once they have two sets of true leaves. Use thinnings in cooking—young parsley is flavorful and tender.
9. Mulching and Maintenance
After plants are established, apply a 2-inch mulch layer to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Remove yellow or older leaves regularly to improve airflow and encourage fresh, compact growth.
For continuous harvest, cut outer stems first, allowing the inner crown to regenerate.
10. Pest and Disease Prevention at Planting
Moss Curled Parsley is largely pest-resistant but may attract aphids or leaf miners.
Inspect undersides of leaves weekly and remove affected foliage early. Neem oil or insecticidal soap may be used if necessary.
Maintain clean beds and proper spacing to prevent fungal diseases such as leaf spot.
Companion Planting:
Excellent companion for tomatoes, asparagus, and roses—its aromatic foliage attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and predatory wasps. Avoid growing near carrots to reduce pest overlap.
How to Grow – Moss Curled Parsley (Organic) (Petroselinum crispum var. crispum)
Watering
Provide 1–1¼ inches of water weekly, maintaining consistent moisture for steady leaf production and tight curl formation. Moss Curled Parsley prefers evenly moist soil—dry periods followed by heavy watering can stress plants and reduce leaf quality.
Water deeply and slowly at the base to encourage deep rooting. Avoid overhead watering, which increases fungal risk on the dense, ruffled foliage.
Mulch with 2–3 inches of compost, straw, or shredded leaves to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature through seasonal shifts.
Tip: Regular, deep watering ensures tender, richly green foliage—parsley grown under stress develops coarse texture and diminished flavor.
Fertilizing
Before planting, mix 2–3 inches of compost or aged manure into the top 6 inches of soil.
Feed every 4–6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer such as 5-5-5 or liquid compost tea.
Moss Curled Parsley benefits from moderate fertility; avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages weak, floppy growth and diluted flavor.
A midsummer side-dressing of compost maintains soil health and prolongs harvests.
Tip: Parsley responds best to slow, organic nutrition—consistent soil fertility builds deep color, strong stems, and superior aroma.
Weeding & Mulching
Weed regularly during early growth to minimize competition for water and nutrients.
Once plants mature, apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the base to reduce weed pressure and protect shallow feeder roots.
Weed carefully to avoid disturbing the crown—parsley roots are sensitive to soil disruption.
Tip: A mulch layer of compost or leaf litter mimics natural conditions, fostering beneficial fungi and moisture retention that keep plants vigorous and resilient.
Sun & Heat Management
Provide 6–8 hours of sunlight daily for strong, compact growth. In very warm climates, light afternoon shade preserves leaf tenderness and color.
Ideal temperature range: 60–80°F (16–27°C). Prolonged heat may trigger early bolting, so maintain even soil moisture and partial shading during midsummer.
Ensure good airflow between plants to reduce humidity and discourage fungal disease.
Tip: The tight curls of Moss Curled Parsley hold their form and vibrant green color best when grown in mild temperatures and filtered light.
Spacing & Support
Space plants 8–10 inches apart in rows 12–15 inches apart to promote air circulation and easy harvesting.
No structural support is required, but frequent trimming maintains compact, ornamental form.
For uniform, market-ready bunches, harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage new central growth.
Tip: Regular cutting not only extends productivity but also stimulates denser curls, ideal for both culinary and decorative use.
Attract beneficial insects: Flowering parsley provides nectar for hoverflies, lacewings, parasitic wasps, and native bees.
Pollinator habitat: Leave a few plants to overwinter—flowering in the second year supports early pollinators like bees and swallowtails.
Companion plants: Pair with tomatoes, carrots, onions, or peppers for pest balance and soil diversity.
Ecological benefit: As part of the carrot family, parsley supports natural predator species while enriching soil microbial life through its dense root system.
Tip: When swallowtail caterpillars appear, relocate them gently to dill or fennel rather than removing them—each one signals a thriving, pollinator-friendly ecosystem.
Container Growing
Grow Moss Curled Parsley successfully in 10–12 inch deep containers filled with rich organic potting mix and compost.
Keep the soil consistently moist—containers dry quickly in warm weather. Mulch lightly to maintain even hydration.
Feed with diluted organic fertilizer or compost tea every 3–4 weeks during active growth.
Tip: Containers allow for a steady supply of fresh parsley indoors through winter—place near a bright window or under grow lights for year-round harvests.
Season Extension
In temperate regions, Moss Curled Parsley can overwinter with light protection. Apply 3–4 inches of straw mulch around the crowns before frost to insulate roots.
In colder climates, use cold frames, low tunnels, or frost cloths to extend the harvest well into late autumn.
In spring, remove mulch gradually to encourage early regrowth.
Tip: Cool weather enhances the sweetness and color of parsley leaves—late-fall harvests often yield the most vibrant, flavorful greens of the year.
Begin harvesting Moss Curled Parsley when plants reach 8–10 inches tall, about 70–80 Days after sowing. Use clean shears to cut the outer stems first, letting new growth emerge from the plant center.
For the fullest flavor and highest oil concentration, harvest in the early morning before sun exposure. Avoid removing more than one-third of the foliage at a time to maintain strong regrowth.
Frequent light harvesting encourages lush, compact plants and keeps the frilled leaves dense and vibrant throughout the season.
Flavor & Culinary Use:
Moss Curled Parsley offers a fresh, mild, and slightly sweet flavor that complements most dishes without overpowering them. Its finely crimped leaves make it ideal for both culinary and ornamental use.
The variety’s tender texture and appealing appearance have long made it a staple for garnish, though it also shines finely chopped in soups, sauces, herb butters, tabbouleh, and vegetable dishes.
Because the leaves hold their structure longer than flat types, Moss Curled is particularly valued in cold salads, prepared platters, and fresh herbal blends where visual presentation is key.
Handling & Storage:
To preserve freshness, keep harvested stems in a glass of cool water or wrap them in a damp cloth inside a breathable bag in the refrigerator.
Moss Curled Parsley maintains color and texture for up to a week under high humidity.
For long-term use, chop and freeze the leaves in small portions with olive oil or water. If drying, do so gently in shade—high heat will reduce both flavor and aroma.
Growth & Maintenance:
This variety prefers well-drained, loamy soil enriched with compost, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during early growth, to prevent stress or bitterness. Mulch well to retain moisture and reduce weed competition.
Moss Curled Parsley can be grown as an annual or biennial. In mild climates, it overwinters well with a layer of straw or compost mulch and resumes growth in early spring.
Sun & Water Tips:
Provide 6–8 hours of sun daily for rich color and tight curls. In regions with intense summer heat, offer partial afternoon shade to maintain leaf tenderness.
Water deeply once or twice per week, ensuring consistent moisture without waterlogging. Apply mulch to stabilize soil temperature and suppress weeds.
Seed Saving:
Allow second-year plants to bolt and produce umbels of small yellow-green flowers. When seed heads turn dry and brown, harvest and hang them upside down in paper bags to dry completely.
Separate the seeds from the chaff and store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark location.
Seeds remain viable for 2–4 years and should be isolated from other parsley types by at least 800 feet for purity.
Ecological & Pollinator Notes:
Moss Curled Parsley’s blooms attract native bees, hoverflies, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, contributing to natural pest control and overall garden balance.
It also serves as an important host plant for Eastern Black Swallowtail butterflies. When larvae appear, relocate them gently to nearby dill or fennel instead of removing them—each represents an active sign of a healthy, pollinator-friendly ecosystem.
Interplant parsley with tomatoes, peppers, carrots, and onions to encourage beneficial insects and reduce aphid pressure.
Culinary Pairings & Presentation Tips:
The soft curls and bright green hue of Moss Curled Parsley elevate presentation and plate appeal. Use fresh leaves to accent roasted meats, fish, root vegetables, and grain salads.
It blends well with butter, lemon, garlic, and olive oil, and is an excellent finishing herb for creamy sauces and soups.
When displayed at market, bunch stems neatly and mist lightly to highlight the vivid green curls. Its refined, decorative look communicates freshness, care, and organic integrity—symbolizing the balance between beauty and nourishment in traditional herb gardening.
Common Pests & Problems — Moss Curled Parsley (Organic) (Petroselinum crispum var. crispum)
Insects & Mites
Aphids (curled leaves, sticky honeydew, and weakened growth)
Controls: Aphids are one of the most common pests of parsley, especially during cool or humid weather. Check leaf undersides weekly and remove colonies by rinsing with a strong stream of water. Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days until infestations subside. Encourage beneficial insects such as lady beetles, lacewings, and hoverflies. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, which creates soft growth that aphids prefer.
Parsley Worm (Black Swallowtail Caterpillar) (chewed leaves and stems during midsummer)
Controls: These bright green caterpillars with black and yellow banding are the larvae of the Eastern Black Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio polyxenes), an essential native pollinator species across much of North America. Though their feeding can appear heavy, they rarely harm mature parsley plants and should never be killed or treated as pests.
If you find them feeding, gently relocate caterpillars to nearby host plants such as dill, fennel, or Queen Anne’s lace rather than removing or harming them. Consider planting “pollinator rows” or sacrificial host stands of these species to sustain butterfly populations while protecting your main herb crop. Their presence is a sign of a thriving and ecologically balanced garden.
Encourage this harmony by avoiding pesticides entirely, maintaining healthy soil, and embracing these native insects as living proof that your garden supports biodiversity and regeneration — the true measure of ecological success.
Leaf Miners (narrow tunnels or blotches in leaves)
Controls: Remove and destroy affected leaves immediately to interrupt larval development. Cover young plants with floating row covers to prevent egg-laying. Apply neem oil as a deterrent. Encourage natural control by supporting parasitic wasps (Diglyphus isaea), which attack leaf miner larvae.
Spider Mites (fine webbing, stippling, and bronzing of leaves during hot, dry periods)
Controls: Maintain high humidity and even watering to deter mites. Hose down foliage regularly to remove dust and insects. Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap weekly if needed. Avoid drought stress, which increases susceptibility.
Cutworms (seedlings cut at soil level overnight)
Controls: Protect seedlings with cardboard collars or rings around stems. Remove weeds and debris that harbor larvae. Tilling soil before planting exposes overwintering cutworms to predators. Apply beneficial nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae) for biological control.
Diseases
Leaf Spot (Septoria petroselini) (small brown or black spots on lower leaves, yellow halos)
Controls: Remove and destroy infected leaves immediately. Water at the soil line to avoid splashing spores. Apply copper-based fungicide preventively in wet weather. Rotate crops yearly and avoid planting parsley or related species (carrot, celery) in the same soil for at least two years.
Powdery Mildew (white, powdery film on upper leaf surfaces)
Controls: Space plants for airflow and avoid overcrowding. Water early in the morning to reduce nighttime humidity. Apply sulfur or potassium bicarbonate sprays at first signs of infection. Maintain healthy soil fertility to strengthen plant resistance.
Downy Mildew (yellow blotches on upper leaf surfaces, fuzzy gray growth underneath)
Controls: Avoid overhead watering and improve airflow. Water early in the day to keep foliage dry overnight. Use copper fungicide as a preventive measure during prolonged damp conditions. Remove and destroy infected foliage promptly.
Crown or Root Rot (wilting, yellowing, and rotted crowns in soggy soil)
Controls: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering. Plant in raised beds or containers with loose, loamy soil. Do not allow water to pool around plants. Remove affected plants immediately and do not compost them.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Bolting (premature flowering) (triggered by heat, drought, or stress)
Controls: Maintain consistent soil moisture and provide partial shade during hot summer months. Harvest leaves frequently to encourage vegetative growth. Mulch around plants to moderate soil temperature and retain moisture.
Yellowing Leaves (nutrient imbalance or overwatering)
Controls: Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea monthly. Check soil drainage and avoid waterlogging. Loosen compacted soil to restore root oxygen flow.
Tough or Bitter Leaves (caused by heat, drought, or irregular harvest)
Controls: Keep soil evenly moist and harvest regularly to stimulate new, tender growth. Mulch to maintain soil coolness and moisture balance.
Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist
Inspect plants twice weekly for aphids, miners, and mildew.
Avoid overhead watering; irrigate early and at soil level.
Rotate crops every two years to reduce fungal and pest buildup.
Maintain mulch 2–3 inches deep to prevent soil splash and retain moisture.
Space plants properly (8–10 inches apart) for airflow and disease prevention.
Encourage beneficial insects through companion planting (dill, fennel, yarrow).
Remove diseased foliage immediately and disinfect cutting tools.
Keep soil rich in organic matter but well-drained.
Maintain consistent watering to prevent stress and flavor loss.
Q: What is Moss Curled Parsley?
Moss Curled Parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. crispum) is a finely curled heirloom variety with lush, frilled leaves resembling soft moss. This organically grown strain maintains the traditional beauty of European kitchen gardens while delivering mild, fresh flavor perfect for both cooking and garnish. Its compact form makes it ideal for borders, containers, and decorative herb beds.
Q: How long does Moss Curled Parsley take to germinate?
Seeds germinate in 14–28 Days under ideal temperatures between 65–75 °F (18–24 °C). Like other parsley types, Moss Curled germinates slowly. Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before sowing, and keep soil evenly moist until emergence.
Q: Is Moss Curled Parsley annual or biennial?
Parsley is a biennial, producing leaves its first year and flowers its second. Most gardeners grow it as an annual for the best-tasting foliage.
Q: What soil conditions are best for Moss Curled Parsley?
This variety thrives in loamy, fertile soil with steady moisture and good drainage. A pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal. Work compost or aged manure into the soil before planting for lush, dark-green growth.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
Moss Curled Parsley performs best in full sun, though it tolerates partial shade, especially during hot midsummer conditions. In northern climates, full sun promotes dense, compact leaves.
Q: How tall does Moss Curled Parsley grow?
Plants reach 8–10 inches tall and spread up to 12 inches wide. Their finely curled foliage forms tight rosettes, giving them a decorative, almost floral appearance in the garden.
Q: How much water does it require?
Keep the soil consistently moist — parsley has shallow roots that dislike drying out. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on heat, and mulch to retain moisture and cool the soil.
Q: Can Moss Curled Parsley be grown in containers?
Yes. It thrives in containers at least 8 inches deep, using rich potting soil with good drainage. Container-grown plants are perfect for patios or kitchen windowsills where fresh herbs are within reach.
Q: How should I harvest Moss Curled Parsley?
Harvest outer stems and leaves regularly, cutting them close to the base of the plant. Leave the inner crown intact for continuous new growth. Frequent harvesting encourages fuller foliage and prevents early flowering.
Q: Can I overwinter Moss Curled Parsley?
In Zones 6–9, the plant can overwinter outdoors with heavy mulch. In colder climates, grow it in pots that can be brought indoors before frost or start new seeds in late winter for spring transplanting.
Q: How is Moss Curled Parsley used in cooking?
It’s excellent for garnishes, herb butters, sauces, and fresh salads. The curled leaves have a mild, clean flavor that brightens soups, vegetables, and meats. Its texture makes it ideal for fine chopping or decorative plating.
Q: What pests or diseases affect it?
Parsley is relatively hardy but may attract aphids, leaf miners, or fungal leaf spot. Keep foliage dry, space plants well, and remove older leaves regularly to reduce risk.
Q: Can I save seeds from Moss Curled Parsley?
Yes. Allow plants to overwinter and flower in their second year. Collect seeds when the umbels turn brown and dry. Store seeds in a cool, dry place for the next season.
Q: What makes the organic variety special?
Organic Moss Curled Parsley is grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, relying instead on natural compost and soil stewardship. This preserves biodiversity, strengthens soil ecology, and ensures cleaner, more aromatic herbs — a living example of sustainable agriculture in practice.
Q: What is the historical significance of Moss Curled Parsley?
Curled parsley forms like this date back to 17th-century Europe, where they were cultivated for beauty and refinement in monastic and manor gardens. The “moss curled” type, perfected in France and England during the 18th century, was valued both for table garnish and culinary elegance. Today’s organic strain continues that lineage, connecting modern growers to centuries of careful selection and stewardship.
History & Culture — Moss Curled Parsley (Organic) (Petroselinum crispum var. crispum)
Moss Curled Parsley represents the continuity of Europe’s most enduring garden herbs — a plant cultivated not only for flavor but for form. Originating from the same lineage as flat-leaf parsley, curly varieties emerged through centuries of selection by European gardeners who prized their finely crimped leaves and decorative symmetry. By the late medieval period, these curled forms were treasured in monastery and manor gardens alike, serving both kitchen and table.
The “moss curled” type gained prominence in France and England during the 18th century, when herb gardens became an art form in themselves. Gardeners selected plants with ever-tighter curls and deeper green color, until the leaves took on the soft, moss-like texture that gives this variety its name. Its visual appeal made it a favorite garnish for formal banquets, while its gentle flavor suited sauces and soups that demanded freshness without dominance.
Through the 19th century, Moss Curled Parsley spread across Europe and into the Americas, where it was sold by early seed merchants to homesteaders and cooks who valued both beauty and practicality. The curled leaves stayed fresher longer after harvest, making them ideal for market growers and restaurant kitchens alike.
The Organic Moss Curled Parsley offered today continues that long tradition through regenerative growing methods that honor soil health and biodiversity. In every frilled leaf lies a legacy of centuries of human cultivation — an herb that reflects both our appetite for beauty and our enduring partnership with the living earth.
Seed Saving — Moss Curled Parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. crispum)
1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving
Select healthy, deeply curled parsley plants with compact growth, uniform frilling, and a rich green color. Choose plants that exhibit the true Moss Curled habit—dense rosettes of finely divided leaves and strong stems that resist early bolting.
As a biennial, Moss Curled produces its seed in the second season. Mark your best specimens in the first year and allow them to overwinter naturally. Preserve diversity by collecting seed from 10–15 plants each cycle.
2. Overwintering and Flowering
In regions with cold winters, mulch plants heavily with straw or leaf litter to insulate crowns from frost. In mild climates, Moss Curled parsley will overwinter in place and bloom the following spring.
The second-year growth sends up slender stems topped with umbels of small, white blossoms that attract beneficial pollinators such as hoverflies and native bees. Allow full bloom and seed set for maximum yield and genetic strength.
3. Pollination and Isolation
Parsley is insect-pollinated and crosses readily between varieties.
To maintain a pure Moss Curled strain, isolate by 800–1,600 feet (250–500 m) from any other parsley in flower.
In smaller gardens, fine mesh bags can be placed over umbels before bloom to prevent unwanted pollen transfer while allowing airflow and limited self-pollination.
4. Harvesting Seeds
When the seed heads turn light brown and dry on the plant, harvest umbels early in the day after dew has evaporated.
Clip umbels before seeds begin to shatter and place them upside-down in paper bags or open baskets. Allow to cure indoors for 1–2 weeks in a shaded, well-ventilated space.
5. Cleaning Seeds (Organic Methods)
Once umbels are fully dry, gently rub them by hand or over a mesh screen to separate the seeds from stems and chaff.
Winnow gently or blow across the surface to remove lightweight debris.
To minimize fungal pathogens, optionally sanitize with:
Hydrogen peroxide (3%) for 3–5 minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly, or
Chamomile tea rinse for 2–3 minutes as a mild organic antifungal.
6. Drying Seeds
Spread cleaned seeds evenly on parchment, ceramic, or mesh trays.
Dry in a shaded, airy space at no more than 95°F (35°C) until seeds are crisp and brittle.
For humid regions, use a small fan or low-temperature dehydrator (85°F / 29°C) to ensure thorough drying.
7. Storing Seeds
Store completely dry seeds in paper packets or airtight jars. Add a natural desiccant such as baked rice, powdered milk, or silica gel wrapped in paper.
Label with variety name, year, and location.
Keep stored in a cool, dark, and dry place (35–45°F / 1–7°C).
Parsley seed remains viable for 2–4 years, with best germination achieved in the first two years.
8. Testing Seed Viability
To test for viability:
Place 10 seeds on a damp paper towel inside a sealed container.
Keep at 70–75°F (21–24°C) for 14–21 days.
Count germinated seeds.
8–10 sprouts: excellent
6–7 sprouts: fair; sow thickly
Below 6: low viability; refresh seed stock
9. Preventing Cross-Pollination
If multiple parsley varieties are grown nearby, prevent crossing by isolation or bagging flower umbels prior to bloom.
Saving seed from several plants (at least 10) helps preserve healthy variability within the Moss Curled population.
Drying and germination outcomes
Such documentation ensures long-term improvement and adaptation of your Moss Curled parsley strain to local growing conditions.
11. Organic Tips for Success
Use rainwater or dechlorinated water during cleaning or rinsing.
Compost old umbels and stalks to enrich the soil.
Rotate parsley beds every 2–3 years to reduce disease buildup.
Encourage beneficial pollinators—hoverflies and small wasps enhance seed set naturally.
Avoid chemical seed treatments that strip away protective microbial coatings.
Tip: Saving seed from your best Moss Curled parsley ensures a dependable lineage of fine, deeply frilled foliage—ideal for both kitchen garnishes and lush herb garden borders.
Uses and Benefits — Moss Curled Parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. crispum)
Culinary Uses
Moss Curled Parsley is a beloved kitchen staple and ornamental herb, prized for its finely frilled leaves, bright flavor, and visual appeal. Its crisp texture and mild, clean taste make it equally suited to cooking, garnishing, and decorative plating.
Fresh Use:
Finely chopped leaves add freshness and color to salads, grain dishes, roasted vegetables, and sauces. The delicate flavor balances rich foods like butter, cream, and cheese while enhancing lighter fare such as fish, poultry, and greens.
Cooking:
Add near the end of cooking to preserve its aroma. In soups, stews, and sautés, it softens into a subtle herbal base note, brightening complex flavors without overwhelming them.
Garnish:
Moss Curled’s fine frills hold shape and color exceptionally well, making it a signature finishing herb for classic European and American cuisine.
Preserving and Preparation Methods
Drying: Air-dry in shade or use a low-heat dehydrator to retain vivid color.
Freezing: Chop and freeze in ice cube trays with olive oil or water for quick use.
Herb Butter: Blend with lemon, garlic, and butter for a versatile compound spread.
Infused Vinegars or Oils: Impart gentle herbal aroma to dressings and marinades.
Nutritional Benefits
Moss Curled Parsley is rich in nutrients and cleansing properties:
Vitamins: High in vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immunity, collagen, and bone strength.
Minerals: Contains calcium, potassium, and magnesium for cardiovascular health.
Antioxidants: Provides flavonoids and chlorophyll for cellular protection and detoxification.
Fiber: Aids digestion and supports metabolic health.
As both garnish and ingredient, it offers nutrition as vibrant as its color.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Curled parsley traces back to the Mediterranean and has been cultivated for over two millennia. Its curled form arose through careful selection in Europe, where it symbolized festivity, vitality, and renewal.
By the 19th century, “Moss Curled” types became the standard for both garden and garnish use, valued for their compact habit and ornamental charm.
Adaptability: Thrives in full to partial sun, tolerates light frost, and performs well in pots, garden borders, or raised beds.
Ease of Growth: Steady regrowth after cutting and low maintenance make it ideal for home and market growers alike.
Seed Stewardship: Open-pollinated and faithful to type—easy to save from year to year.
Everyday Benefits and Kitchen Versatility
Moss Curled Parsley fits effortlessly into daily cooking:
Soups & Sauces: Adds color and brightness to broths, gravies, and chowders.
Vegetables & Grains: Enhances potatoes, rice, lentils, and roasted roots.
Eggs & Poultry: Complements omelets, chicken, and turkey dishes.
Garnish: Holds structure for elegant plating and presentation.
Pairs beautifully with garlic, lemon, and olive oil, as well as complementary herbs such as dill, thyme, and chives.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Pollinator Attraction: Flower umbels support hoverflies, parasitic wasps, and other beneficial insects.
Companion Planting: Pairs well with tomatoes, peppers, and onions, supporting pest resistance and mutual growth.
Soil Health: Provides light groundcover, stabilizing soil and retaining moisture.
Container Friendly: Compact habit and decorative foliage make it ideal for edible landscaping and patio gardens.
Tip: Moss Curled Parsley is the gardener’s classic—graceful in form, generous in flavor, and steadfast in tradition. Its beauty nourishes both the plate and the garden.
Shipped from U.S.A.
Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
Triple tested
We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
Soil Readiness
for Parsley Plants (Petroselinum crispum)
Where to get a soil test
Best option: your state’s Cooperative Extension soil testing lab.
Tip: Arid or alkaline regions often use Olsen (bicarbonate) for phosphorus.
Interprets P by extractant and assumes ppm. Results are approximate.
Enter at least one value above, then Calculate.
Summary
Recommended Amendments (per 100 sq ft)
How to Use
Mix P and K sources into the top 3-6" a week or two before sowing or transplanting.
If pH is low, apply lime 3-4 weeks pre-plant or in fall or winter.
Side-dress parsley with about 0.05-0.10 lb N per 100 sq ft after establishment or after first clipping, then lightly every 3-4 weeks as needed.
Keep soil evenly moist and mulch to moderate heat and reduce bitterness or early bolting.
Add 1-2" finished compost yearly to build organic matter.
Container mix - use a peat or coco based mix with compost and slow-release organic fertilizer. pH is usually already correct.
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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Parsley Seeds - Moss Curled
$200 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
The frilled green of culinary perfection. ‘Moss Curled’ parsley forms tight clusters of finely curled, deep green leaves with rich flavor and tender texture. The taste is fresh and mildly sweet, ideal for garnishing, seasoning, and brightening dishes year-round.
Plants grow 10–12 inches tall and remain compact, lush, and productive throughout the season. Excellent for containers, borders, or garden beds, with strong regrowth after cutting.
A traditional variety cultivated for centuries, ‘Moss Curled’ embodies both beauty and utility—ornamental in the garden, indispensable in the kitchen.
