How to propagate parsley from cutting in water is one of the easiest ways to multiply this herb without using seeds. All you need is a healthy parsley stem, a glass of water, and a little patience to see new roots forming.
I have been gardening since childhood, and I often grow herbs like mint, coriander, and parsley in my home garden. Earlier, I used to grow parsley from seeds, but when I tried water propagation for the first time, I was surprised. Within just two weeks, I saw tiny roots forming in a glass jar. Here, I will share my experience in detail.
IN THIS ARTICLE
About Parsley Plant
- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a popular herb used in cooking and garnishing.
- There are two main types:
- Curly parsley – with ruffled leaves.
- Flat-leaf parsley – with broader leaves and stronger taste.
- Both types can be propagated in water with the same method.
Quick Tips Before Starting
- Select green and healthy stems about 4–6 inches long.
- Always cut the stem just below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves before keeping in water.
- Use a transparent glass jar with clean water.
- Place in bright but indirect sunlight.
- Change water every 2–3 days.
How to Propagate Parsley from Cutting in Water
Step 1: Select and Cut Healthy Stems
- I always begin by choosing fresh, green parsley stems from my plant.
- Avoid old, woody, or very tender stems because they do not root well.
- The stem length should be around 4–6 inches.
- I cut the stem just below a leaf node because roots grow from this point.
- From my experience, if you cut above the node, the cutting usually fails.
Step 2: Prepare the Cutting
- After cutting, I prepare the stem before placing it in water.
- I remove the lower leaves, keeping only a few leaves at the top.
- This helps the stem save energy and focus on root growth.
- In my early attempts, when I left too many leaves, the cuttings dried up quickly.
- Now, I always follow this method, and my success rate has improved.
Step 3: Place the Cutting in Water
- I take a clean glass jar and fill it with room-temperature fresh water.
- I place the cuttings inside so that the leaf node is underwater and the leaves stay above.
- I usually keep the jar on my kitchen windowsill, where it gets bright indirect sunlight.
- Avoid keeping in direct sunlight because it heats the water and damages the cuttings.
- From my experience, indirect light helps the cuttings stay fresh and encourages rooting.
Step 4: Change Water and Wait for Roots
- One of the biggest lessons I learned is the importance of changing water.
- I now change water every 2–3 days to keep it clean and oxygen-rich.
- If the water is not changed, it turns dirty and smells bad, and cuttings often rot.
- After 10–15 days, I usually see small white roots coming out.
- Sometimes, in cooler weather, it can take up to 2–3 weeks.
- The first time I saw roots forming, I felt very proud and motivated to grow more.
Step 5: Transfer to Soil for Growth
- Once the roots are about 2 inches long, I carefully move the cutting into soil.
- I use a mix of 50% garden soil, 30% compost, and 20% sand/cocopeat.
- This mix provides nutrients and proper drainage.
- After transplanting, I water lightly and keep the plant in semi-shade for 2–3 days.
- Once the plant adjusts, I shift it to a place with 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.
- This step is very important for long-term healthy growth of parsley.
Care After Transplanting
- Watering – Keep soil moist but not soggy. I water every 2–3 days, depending on the season.
- Sunlight – Parsley grows best in morning sunlight and afternoon shade.
- Fertilizer – I use homemade compost tea or cow dung compost once every 2–3 weeks.
- Temperature – Ideal growth happens between 18–25°C. I move pots to shade in hot summers.
My Experience and Results
- The first time I propagated parsley in water, I used 6 cuttings.
- Out of those, 4 cuttings rooted well and grew into healthy plants.
- 2 cuttings failed, but that’s normal, so now I always try multiple cuttings at once.
- Today, I never buy parsley plants. I grow them from cuttings and always have fresh supply.
- For me, this method is not only easy but also brings a lot of joy. Watching roots appear in water feels like a small gardening success every time.
Benefits of Propagating Parsley in Water
- Faster than seeds – no need to wait for germination.
- Free and cost-effective – just multiply plants from one mother plant.
- Simple for beginners – no gardening tools required.
- Fun for kids and family – watching roots form in water is exciting.
- Endless supply – keep propagating cuttings and enjoy parsley all year round.
Conclusion
Propagating parsley from cutting in water is a natural, simple, and enjoyable way to grow this herb at home. With just 5 easy steps—selecting stems, preparing cuttings, placing them in water, changing water while waiting for roots, and finally transferring to soil—you can grow fresh parsley successfully. From my personal gardening experience, I can say that this method always gives me joy and a continuous supply of fresh herbs. If you love parsley in your cooking, try this method once and you will enjoy the same happiness I feel whenever new roots appear in my jar.
