Parsley isn't just a garnish. It's packed with goodies like vitamins C and A and iron, plus it's a natural breath freshener. Don't those simple facts make you want to go out and plant some? Here's the deal.

Parsley can take three or four weeks to start growing so you’ll need a little patience. Your best bet is to grow your parsley in a pot, starting indoors. It likes warmth. Parsley can be a picky plant, so use good soil with high-quality compost, and fertilize every two weeks. Put several seeds in your pot(s) to start. Once the plants begin growing, get rid of the weaker plants to make room for the strong ones. (The weaker ones will be smaller, thinner, and just plain wimpier-looking.)

Once your parsley has sprouted, take it outside to a spot that (ideally) gets six hours of sun each day. (It grows well in partial shade, too, or inside on windowsills that get lots of sun.)

When you’re ready to harvest the goods, cut the entire stem and leaf -- don’t just pluck the leaves. This helps the plant grow thicker and happier. (Plus it looks better.)

Nestperts: Mike Weeks and Joey Cagle are gardening gurus at Fifth Season Gardening Co. [ www.fifthseasongardening.com ], which operates six stores in North Carolina and Virginia focused on organic and hydroponic gardening and the ethos of doing it yourself.

Why stop there? Now, find out how to grow cilantro.

-- Paula Kashtan

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