Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a hardy perennial culinary and medicinal herb native to Southwest Asia and Southern Europe, prized for its intense celery-like flavor. Germination is straightforward and reliable, typically occurring in 7-21 days when seeds are sown on or just below the soil surface with adequate light and consistent moisture. This ancient herb, used since Roman times, grows readily from fresh seed and requires minimal pre-treatment.
Before sowing
Cold stratification recommended; sow seeds as soon as ripe for best results. Light exposure improves germination.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Surface sow or barely cover seeds as light improves germination; do not bury deeply. Maintain consistent soil moisture (moist but not waterlogged) and provide strong indirect light or grow lights, avoiding direct sun during germination. Optimal soil temperature is 15-21°C (60-70°F). Cold stratification of 2-3 weeks improves germination rates. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Germination can be slow and erratic; patience is required. Thin seedlings to strongest when they have first true leaves. Transplant to individual pots when 4 true leaves appear. Harden off before transplanting outdoors at least 60cm apart. Seeds sown fresh (when ripe) germinate more reliably than older seed.
Sources: Johnny's Selected Seeds, West Coast Seeds, PFAF Plant Database, Seed Needs LLC, Gardening Know How, Sow True Seed, Britannica, ScienceDirect
