Mugwort Seeds - Artemesis vulgaris

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

USDA Zones 3-10 - Grows as a hardy perennial. It is a highly resilient plant that can withstand a wide range of conditions, but it is not suited for extremely hot, humid climates.

Best performance in Zones 4-9, where it thrives in full sun and well-draining soil.

Northern Zones (3-5) - Plant seeds in early spring after the last frost date. Can also be fall-sown, allowing the seeds to naturally stratify over the winter.

Hot Climate Zones (9-10) - Plant in early spring or fall. Mugwort is heat-tolerant but requires excellent drainage and a location that is not overly humid.

Soil Temperature - Germination is best in a cool soil, with an optimal temperature range of 60-70F. Seeds require light to germinate, so they should not be covered.

Growing Season - As a perennial, it will establish a strong root system in the first year and return each spring, growing more robustly over time.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Sow seeds outdoors in early spring after the last frost date or in late fall. For a head start, you can start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Seeds require light to germinate, so surface sowing is recommended.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Mugwort thrives in poor to average, well-draining soil. It is highly adaptable and does not require rich soil. In fact, rich soil can lead to leggy, less-aromatic growth.

Starting Seeds:

Sowing Indoors: Fill seed starting trays with a well-draining mix. Sprinkle the tiny seeds on the surface of the soil and do not cover.

Sowing Outdoors: Prepare a seedbed by raking the soil smooth. Scatter the seeds on the surface and lightly press them into the soil.

Water from the bottom or mist the soil gently to avoid disturbing the seeds. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Germination typically takes 10-20 days.

Care and Maintenance:

Controlling Spread: Mugwort is an extremely vigorous spreader via its underground rhizomes. To prevent it from taking over your garden, plant it in a contained area or in a location where its spread is not an issue.

Watering: Water regularly until the plants are established. Once mature, mugwort is very drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental watering.

Pruning: To maintain a bushy shape and prevent the plant from getting too leggy, you can prune it back by about one-third in early spring.

Harvesting: Harvest the foliage and flowering tops in late spring to early summer before the flowers open. Cut stems and hang in a cool, dry place with good air circulation.

Important Considerations:
Mugwort can be an aggressive plant. It is highly recommended to plant it in a contained bed or a large pot to prevent it from taking over your garden.