How to Grow Lovage Seeds (Levisticum officinale):
Lovage is a hardy perennial herb with a celery-like flavor and tall growth, and it prefers cool starts. Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors in early spring; in warm climates, sow in fall for a better cool-season start. Seeds germinate best when fresh, so don’t store them long. Sow about 0.5–1 cm (¼–½ in) deep in a light, well-drained mix, keep evenly moist, and germination usually takes 10–20 days in mild temps. Transplant or thin seedlings to 60–90 cm (2–3 ft) apart because lovage becomes a large clump. Plant in full sun in cool regions, or morning sun with afternoon shade where summers are hot. Use rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil.
How to Care for Lovage:
Keep soil consistently moist, especially the first year; lovage hates drying out and will get bitter or limp if stressed. Mulch heavily to hold moisture and keep roots cool. Feed in spring with compost or a balanced fertilizer—lovage is a heavier feeder than many herbs because it grows big. Cut stems often to encourage fresh, tender growth; harvest young leaves for the best flavor, and you can also use hollow stems like celery. Tall plants may need staking in wind. Lovage flowers in summer; remove flower stalks if you want more leaves, or let them bloom for pollinators and seed saving. In fall, you can cut the plant back to a few centimeters above ground; it will return vigorously in spring and can live for many years if kept moist and well-fed.
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