Parsley is a cold-tolerant vegetable that thrives in cool and moist conditions. However, during hot summer cultivation, it's essential to grow strong and healthy seedlings. Based on years of experience, the author has developed effective methods for seedling production that can be used as a reference.
**Variety Selection**
Choose heat-resistant, high-temperature tolerant, and disease-resistant celery varieties. After extensive trials, Celery 3, Emperor West Celery, and New Generation Celery have shown excellent adaptability and strong resistance to both heat and diseases.
**Timely Sowing**
The ideal sowing period in the region is early to late June, depending on local climate conditions.
**Seed Germination Conditions**
Celery prefers cooler temperatures, with an optimal germination range of 15°C to 20°C. If temperatures exceed 25°C, germination becomes difficult, and above 30°C, seeds may not germinate at all. Therefore, during summer, direct seeding should be avoided, and strict temperature control is necessary.
**Seed Preparation**
Soak the seeds in cold water for about 24 hours, then rinse and drain them. Let them dry for 10–20 minutes before proceeding. Wrap the seeds in layers of clean, damp cloth, but avoid pressing them too tightly. Place them in a 15°C–20°C environment for germination. If refrigeration is available, this is ideal. In areas with limited resources, seeds can be placed in a cellar or hung in a well, keeping them about 1 meter away from the water surface. Ensure the cloth remains moist by opening it every 1–2 days. If the seeds begin to dry, mist them lightly with water to maintain moisture. Germination typically takes around 6 days.
**Sowing Technique**
In summer, when rainfall is frequent, choose a seedbed with good drainage and irrigation. Apply sufficient base fertilizer and prepare the soil. Once the water has been absorbed, mix the soaked seeds with fine soil and sprinkle them evenly in the seedbed. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil (about 0.5 cm thick). Keep the seedbed consistently moist throughout the process. The recommended sowing rate is 80 grams per acre, requiring a seedbed area of approximately 80 square meters.
**Seedling Management**
Protect the seedbed by covering it with shade nets or grass canopies if possible. This helps maintain moisture and reduce heat stress. Adjust the height of the shade net to about 40 cm for proper ventilation. From sowing until the end of August, keep the seedlings under shade. On cloudy or sunny days, the shade net can be removed in the morning and evening. By late August, the shade can be fully removed. During this time, ensure the soil remains moist and cover the seedbed with a rainproof film if needed.
Before the seedlings develop their first true leaves, transplant them carefully to encourage root development. Water management should be moderate, avoiding overwatering. When the seedlings have 4–5 leaves, their growth accelerates, so increased attention is required. In summer, water frequently to lower the ground temperature—every 2–3 days, preferably in the early morning or late evening.
**Weeding**
To prevent weed competition, apply herbicide two days after sowing. Use 120–150 grams of herbicide per acre mixed with 75 kg of water, and spray it evenly over the seedbed. This helps maintain a clean and healthy growing environment for the young plants.
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