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Depth to Plant
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Spacing Between Plants |
Days to Germinate (Sprout)
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Germination
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Best Season to Plant_________ |
Sun
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Soil
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Good Plant Companions |
Days to Maturity
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| 1/4" Deep | 36" apart | 10-21 days | 70° F | Spring | Partial shade | Moist | Borage | 90 |
Getting Started with Lovage Seeds
Lovage is a perennial herb that's surprisingly easy to grow from seed, and it rewards patient gardeners with years of flavorful leaves. Whether you're growing lovage in a garden bed or container, the process begins with understanding its basic needs and timeline.
When to Plant Lovage Seeds
Lovage seeds benefit from a cold period before sprouting, which is why many gardeners start seeds indoors in late winter or direct sow them outdoors in fall. If you're planting indoors, start about 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost. Seeds need a period of cold stratification—simply refrigerate them for 2 to 3 weeks before planting to improve germination rates.
Preparing Your Growing Space
Lovage thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Mix your seed-starting soil with compost to provide nutrients that support healthy seedling development. Whether you're using seed trays or planting directly outdoors, ensure the soil stays consistently moist but never waterlogged during germination.
Sowing and Germination
Plant lovage seeds about 1/4 inch deep and space them 2 to 3 inches apart. Keep the soil temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for best results. Germination typically takes 2 to 3 weeks, so patience is key. Once seedlings emerge, they'll develop their distinctive leaves relatively quickly.
Caring for Young Lovage Plants
Provide your seedlings with bright, indirect light and maintain even moisture without letting them dry out completely. When seedlings develop their second set of true leaves, thin them to 6 inches apart to give each plant room to grow. If you started indoors, harden off your seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days before transplanting.
Transplanting and Long-Term Growth
Lovage develops a deep taproot, so it prefers to stay in one location once established. Plant seedlings in their final position—whether a garden bed or large container—in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for their mature size. Water regularly during the first growing season, then reduce watering once the plant is established.
Harvesting Your Lovage
Your first-year lovage plant will focus on building roots and foliage. By the second year, you can begin harvesting leaves regularly, pinching from the top to encourage bushier growth. The stems are also edible and add great flavor to soups and broths. With proper care, a single lovage plant can provide harvests for many years.
In Summary
| How to Grow & Harvest Lovage |
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When to Plant Lovage can be easily grown from seed. Just make sure you sow the seeds after the danger of frost has passed. You can also get a jump start on your garden by starting them indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date.
How to Plant Make sure when you transplant them, they are watered regularly for the first few weeks. Lovage grows best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Grow plants in average to rich soil that is well drained. Once your lovage is established, water them only during dry periods. Feel free to use an all purpose fertilizer once or twice a growing season.
When to Harvest Harvest the leaves from your lovage plant as soon as it is established or 2-3 feet tall. This herb can be used fresh, dried, or frozen. |
