Lovage
Species- Common
DAYS TO GERMINATION:
10-14 days.
SOWING:
Transplant (recommended): Start 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Sow seeds thickly about 1/4" deep in flats. Transplant to individual containers when seedlings have 4 true leaves. Transplant outdoors in spring or early summer 18-24" apart in rows 3' apart.
Direct seed: Lovage may be directed seeded in the spring or in early fall for germination in the spring. Sow 1-2 seeds per inch in rows 3' apart. When 3-4" tall, thin to stand 6" apart. Lovage dies back in the winter, but comes back quickly in early spring. In the spring, it can be further thinned to stand 18-24" inches apart.
LIGHT PREFERENCE:
Sun/Part Shade. Lovage grows best in full sun, but will tolerate part shade.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS:
Performs best in moist, fertile soil, but will grow in most soils.
PLANT HEIGHT:
48-78".
PLANT SPACING:
18-24".
HARDINESS ZONES:
Zones 4-8.
HARVEST:
Harvest leaves the first year once the plants have become established. Entire branches may be cut the second year.
SCIENTIFIC NAME:
Levisticum officinale