The Right Potting Soil for Parsley

Well-Draining Potting Soil

• Parsley grown in pots need well-drained, lightweight potting mixes to thrive. Garden soils are too heavy and may cause the roots to rot. Garden soil may also contain weed seeds or diseases. Instead, look for a soilless commercial potting mix that contains peat moss or compost. These materials add texture to the potting soil so oxygen can reach roots and water drains.

Nutrients

• Nutrients leach quickly from pots, potentially causing nutrient deficiency, slow growth and yellow leaves in parsley. Select a potting soil with slow-release fertilizers in the bag. Take note of how long the nutrients can be expected to support plant growth so you'll know when to begin providing additional fertilizer.

Moisture Retention

• Containers tend to lose moisture more quickly than the ground. Parsley becomes bitter or may develop seeds if allowed to dry out. Select a potting mix with vermiculite or perlite added to the mixture. Vermiculite absorbs moisture and keeps it available for plants without water logging the roots, while perlite keeps soil aerated.

Homemade Potting Mix

• Make an economical homemade potting mix for parsley by mixing 8 gallons shredded sphagnum peat moss, 8 gallons vermiculite, 1 1/4 cups ground limestone, 1/2 cup 0-45-0 fertilizer, and 1 cup slow-release 5-10-5 fertilizer. Moisten the mixture slightly before placing it in a 1-gallon pot or container. Plant the parsley in the pot and keep the soil evenly moist. Place the parsley in full sun for best growth.