FESTIVAL 68 PARSLEY SEEDS

A. graveolens x P. crispum

Breeders in Soviet Bulgaria crossed and selected many lines of celery (Apium graveolens) and parsley (Petroselinum crispum) in effort to obtain resistance to Septoria leaf spot (Septoria petroselini). Their experiments resulted in unexpectedly positive changes in nutritional value and vigor. Festival 68 possesses significantly more vitamin C and beta carotene than its parent parsley. Plants are also higher yielding and rich in essential oil. 

Still widely grown in eastern Europe, these plants have fantastic fragrance and flavor, which is retained when dried. The dried crushed leaves contribute to superior winter soups. Lovers of cutting celery will recognize many of the best culinary qualities of that plant to a subtle degree in Festival 68. Taste is primarily that of a good aromatic parsley.

Vigorous plants are disease resistant and easy to grow. Sow into flats in early spring. Kept moist at cool room temperature in bright light, seeds will begin to germinate in two weeks or so. Germination is erratic, so be patient with stragglers. Seeds may be soaked to improve germination, but we find maintaining soil moisture to be just as effective. Avoid high temperatures. Harden off and transplant well-rooted seedlings into the garden around the date of the last frost. Water frequently until established. 

Festival 68 does not appear to be as hardy as common parsley. Young plants should be protected from freezing temperatures. Plants are unlikely to overwinter in zone 5 and colder. 

Packet contains at least 300 seeds.