Can parsley survive winter conditions outdoors?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Parsley's winter survival is closely tied to your climate zone, as well as the protection methods you use. As a cold-climate gardener, I have successfully overwintered parsley once in zone 5b. You need to understand temperature limits and the types of protective measures. Parsley can tolerate some light frost, but it starts to fail below 28°F.
Zone-Specific Strategies
- Zones 7-10: Apply 6-inch mulch layer after first frost
- Zones 5-6: Use cold frames or cloches with venting
- Zones 3-4: Harvest completely or transplant pots indoors
Mulching Methods
- Cover plants with straw or shredded leaves before ground freezes
- Create 8-inch mound around base for root insulation
- Add snow cover as natural insulator when available
Container Plants
- Move pots to unheated garage or shed before hard freeze
- Water monthly when soil thaws slightly
- Provide 4 hours of light weekly during dormancy
Parsley variety and plant age influence how tolerant they are to temperature. Established plants can tolerate 28°F (only the leaves will die) whereas seedlings are killed at 32°F. I check the forecast frequently, using wireless thermometers. I take action to protect the plants as I see temperatures getting close at those critical levels.
Spring recovery requires careful attention after winter. Remove mulch bit by bit when the temperature is above 40°F. Monitor for new growth at the center of the plant. Diluted fertilizer can be applied as soon as you see green shoots. Cloches can be used to protect early growth from late frosts.
Biennial plants act differently in their second winter. They place energy in flowering rather than foliage growth. I typically harvest these plants entirely in the fall. There are residues of flowers on the plants, from which I collect seeds for planting in the following season.
Microclimate selection enhances the likelihood of surviving a winter. Plant in proximity to south-oriented walls that experience radiation from the heat. Avoid depressions that are low spots where cold air will settle. Throughout my experience, the most successful plants have been located near brick foundations with overhanging eaves.
Read the full article: How to Grow Parsley: Complete Expert Guide
