As parsley seed is so obstinate about germinating in spring, it does
better if sown in autumn, as soon as ripe. Where that is not possible,
the seed may be sown in spring, but “don’t look for the plants till you
see them coming,” since parsley seed just comes up when it feels like
coming up, and not before. The plants should be given a moist, rich
soil and a partly-shaded situation. The curled sorts are ornamental,
but the plain-leaved is best for general use in cookery. When once
established, a supply can easily be kept up from self-sown seed.[19]