Question 1

How long does lovage take to grow from seed?

Accepted Answer

Lovage seeds germinate in 10-21 days, and plants reach harvestable size (8-10 inches) about 8-10 weeks after transplanting. Plants typically don't flower until the second year, focusing first-year energy on establishing extensive root systems for long-term productivity.

Question 2

Is lovage easy to grow?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Lovage is one of the easiest perennial herbs to grow. It thrives with minimal care once established, tolerates cold to -5°F, and returns reliably every spring for 10-15 years or more. The main requirement is keeping soil consistently moist, especially during establishment.

Question 3

What does lovage taste like and how do you use it?

Accepted Answer

Lovage has a bold celery-like flavor with hints of parsley and anise—similar to celery but stronger and more complex. Use young leaves fresh in salads, cook older leaves in soups and stews, use hollow stems as celery substitutes, flavor breads and vinegars with aromatic seeds, and cook mature roots (3+ years old) like celeriac.

Question 4

Can lovage grow in containers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, lovage grows in containers but requires large pots—at least 18-24 inches deep and wide—to accommodate its substantial taproot system. Container plants need more frequent watering and feeding than garden-grown specimens but can produce well for years.

Tag: perennial edibles

perennial edibles

Lovage Seeds / Levisticum officinale

Perpetual Spinach Chard Seeds / Beta vulgaris var. cicla