Valerian: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
How to sow valerian outdoors?
Sow common valerian in spring or autumn when the soil can stay moist during germination. Choose sun or partial shade with soil that retains moisture. This perennial does not share the preferences of a dry-ground plant. Check the name Valeriana officinalis on your seed to avoid confusion with other plants called valerian.
Remove weeds and crumble the surface without deeply digging the whole bed. Scatter the small seeds thinly. Press them gently onto the soil and cover only lightly; burying this surface sowing under 1–2 cm of soil is too deep. Water with a fine rose so you do not wash the seed away. Mark the area, as young seedlings are easy to mistake for weeds.
Keep the surface moist while germination takes place. Its speed varies with temperature and seed condition, so do not rely on one exact date. Never let the seedbed dry between waterings. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, thin gradually to about 30–45 cm apart. Remove competing weeds and maintain moisture during establishment. The final spacing applies to the plants you keep, rather than every individual seed.
How to plant valerian?
When does valerian flower?
