- LIFE CYCLE:Perennial
- LIGHT REQUIREMENT:Full Sun
- PLANTING SEASON:Spring, Fall
- DAYS TO MATURITY:Harvest the 2nd year
- PLANT SPACING:12-18 inches
- PLANTING DEPTH:1/4 inch
- SOWING METHOD:Start Indoors, Direct Sow
- WATER NEEDS:High
- COLD STRATIFICATION:No
- SEEDS PER PACKET:250 mg
- SHIPS:Year Round
How to Grow Valerian
ABOUT VALERIAN
With its attractive fern-like foliage and sweetly scented pink summertime blooms, Valerian has been cultivated and used for generations for a variety of purposes. Obviously ornamental, extracts from the bloom were once used as perfume and oil derived from the root has long been used as a medicinal treatment of insomnia, migraine and anxiety.
WHEN TO PLANT VALERIAN SEEDS
Direct sow outdoors in early spring after the expected final frost, or start indoors 4 weeks prior to transplanting in late spring.
WHERE TO PLANT VALERIAN SEEDS
Valerian performs best in full sun (light shade can be tolerated), in average or sandy, medium moisture, well-drained soils. It thrives in poor soils but does not appreciate hot and humid weather conditions.
HOW TO PLANT VALERIAN SEEDS
Small seeds can be tamped into the soil and covered with a thin layer of soil, approximately 1/4", and should germinate within 7-14 days with moist but well-draining potting mix.
HOW TO HARVEST VALERIAN SEEDS
Spent flower stems should be removed to encourage further blooms and prevent seeds from forming. Dig out the roots in fall or early spring. Dry them outside because the roots don't have a pleasant smell. Once dried, store in an airtight container.