Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
Discover the unique charm of Lovage Parsley Seeds, a distinctive addition to your herb garden. This perennial herb stands tall, reaching heights of up to six feet, with lush, celery-like leaves that add a robust, savory flavor to a variety of dishes. Known for its vigorous growth, Lovage thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a resilient choice for seasoned gardeners and novices alike.
Typically maturing in 80 to 90 days, Lovage is prized for its versatility in the kitchen. The leaves can be used fresh in salads or dried for seasoning, while the stems serve as a flavorful substitute for celery in soups and stews. Its strong, aromatic presence enhances the depth of broths and stocks, offering a unique twist to traditional recipes.
As an added bonus, Lovage attracts beneficial insects to your garden, promoting a healthy ecosystem. Its tall, hollow stems and clusters of yellow-green flowers not only add visual interest but also support pollinators. Whether you're cultivating a culinary herb garden or enhancing the biodiversity of your landscape, Lovage Parsley Seeds provide both beauty and utility.
How to Sow and Plant — Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
1. Choosing the Right Location
Light Requirements:
Lovage thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily but appreciates afternoon shade in hot regions.
Soil Requirements:
Prefers rich, well-drained loam with a pH between 6.0–7.5. Incorporate compost or aged manure before planting to enhance fertility and moisture retention. Avoid compacted or soggy soils.
Soil Preparation Tip:
Loosen soil to a depth of 12 inches and work in organic matter. Lovage has deep taproots—well-aerated soil encourages strong perennial growth.
2. Starting Seeds Indoors
Timing:
Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last frost date. Lovage germinates slowly, often taking 14–21 days, so early indoor sowing helps ensure a strong start.
Containers and Medium:
Use deep seed trays or pots filled with a fine, sterile seed-starting mix. Avoid heavy garden soil.
Sowing Depth:
Sow seeds ¼ inch deep, cover lightly with soil, and mist gently to maintain moisture.
Germination Conditions:
Ideal temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C). Maintain steady warmth and moisture without waterlogging. Germination may be uneven, so patience is key.
Light After Germination:
Once seedlings appear, provide 14–16 hours of bright light daily. Grow lights placed 2–3 inches above foliage prevent legginess.
3. Transplanting Seedlings
Thinning:
Thin seedlings to one per cell or pot when true leaves form. Keep the most vigorous plants for transplanting.
Potting Up:
Lovage develops long roots early—move seedlings to deep individual pots (4–6 inches) before they become root-bound.
Hardening Off:
Before transplanting outdoors, harden seedlings over 7–10 days by gradually exposing them to direct sunlight and cooler air.
4. Planting Outdoors
Timing:
Transplant after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 55°F (13°C).
Planting Depth:
Plant at the same depth as in containers. Avoid burying the crown.
Spacing:
Space plants 24–36 inches apart in rows 36 inches apart—mature lovage grows large and needs airflow and space for its deep root system.
Watering at Planting:
Water deeply after transplanting. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment.
5. Watering and Moisture Management
Maintain consistent moisture, especially in the first year. Mature lovage tolerates brief dryness but performs best in evenly moist soil. Mulch 2–3 inches deep to conserve water and stabilize soil temperature.
Tip: Lovage roots extend deep; water deeply but infrequently once established to encourage downward growth.
6. Temperature and Climate Conditions
Lovage grows best in cool to mild climates. Ideal range: 60–75°F (16–24°C). It is hardy to USDA Zone 4 and dies back in winter, resprouting in spring.
Protect crowns with mulch in colder zones.
7. Fertility and Soil Feeding
Feed with compost or balanced organic fertilizer once in early spring and again midsummer. Avoid excessive nitrogen—this encourages soft growth prone to pests.
Organic Tip: Use compost tea or diluted fish emulsion monthly for balanced nutrition.
8. Direct Sowing (Optional)
Sow outdoors in early spring or late fall (for natural stratification). Plant ¼ inch deep, keeping the soil moist until germination. Thin to the strongest seedlings once established.
9. Mulching and Maintenance
After planting, apply 2–3 inches of mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture. Replace annually as mulch decomposes.
10. Pest and Disease Prevention at Planting
Lovage is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids or leaf miners. Encourage lady beetles and lacewings naturally. Ensure good spacing to prevent fungal diseases.
Companion Planting: Grows well with chives, parsley, and celery; repels some aphid species. Avoid planting near potatoes.
How to Grow – Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
Watering
Lovage prefers consistently moist, deep soil but not waterlogged conditions. Provide about 1 inch of water weekly, increasing slightly during hot or dry periods.
Water deeply to encourage its long taproot to anchor and draw from deeper moisture reserves.
Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are ideal, keeping foliage dry and reducing fungal risk.
Mulch 2–3 inches deep with compost, shredded leaves, or straw to maintain even soil temperature and suppress weeds.
Tip: Avoid shallow, frequent watering—deep soaking less often promotes strong, perennial root development and rich essential oil content.
Fertilizing
Before planting, enrich the soil with 2–3 inches of well-aged compost or manure worked into the top 6–8 inches of soil.
Lovage is a moderate feeder; too much nitrogen encourages tall, floppy growth with weaker flavor.
Apply a balanced organic fertilizer (5-5-5 or 10-10-10) in spring as new growth emerges. Supplement midsummer with compost tea or diluted seaweed extract to support leaf production.
Tip: Steady, moderate fertility yields deeply flavored leaves and vigorous regrowth year after year.
Weeding & Mulching
Keep soil around young plants weed-free to reduce competition and preserve moisture.
Once established, a thick mulch of 2–4 inches of organic matter keeps roots cool and stable.
Weed gently to avoid damaging shallow feeder roots near the crown.
Tip: Early mulching helps retain moisture and naturally suppresses weeds—key for perennials that prefer minimal soil disturbance.
Sun & Heat Management
Lovage grows best in full sun to partial shade, thriving in cool climates and tolerating summer warmth if soil moisture is maintained.
Ideal temperature range: 60–75°F (16–24°C).
In hotter regions, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch and maintain tenderness.
Ensure good airflow around plants to prevent fungal issues, especially in humid areas.
Tip: In southern or dry climates, interplant Lovage near taller herbs or along eastern walls for natural shading and moisture retention.
Spacing & Support
Space plants 24–30 inches apart, as mature Lovage can reach 5–7 feet tall and spread widely.
Staking or light caging helps support flower stalks in windy conditions.
For perennial beds, allow at least 3 feet of root zone per plant for healthy, long-term growth.
Tip: Lovage’s deep taproot makes it best suited for permanent garden placement—avoid transplanting once established.
Attract beneficial insects: Lovage umbels draw hoverflies, lacewings, parasitic wasps, and native bees, which feed on aphids and pollinate nearby crops.
Companion plants: Pair with parsley, dill, or chives to encourage balanced pest-predator interactions. Avoid crowding near heavy feeders like corn or brassicas.
Soil biodiversity: Incorporate compost annually and allow flower stalks to remain over winter to shelter pollinators and beneficial insects.
Crop rotation: Not required for perennials, but surrounding beds benefit from alternating between leaf crops and legumes to restore nitrogen balance.
Tip: Lovage acts as a natural insectary plant—its umbels sustain beneficial species throughout the growing season, reducing pest pressure in mixed gardens.
Container Growing
Lovage’s deep root system limits container use, but smaller plants can be grown temporarily in 20–25 gallon deep planters.
Use high-quality organic potting mix with compost and perlite for drainage.
Water regularly—container soil dries faster—and top-dress with compost every 4–6 weeks.
Tip: If overwintering in pots, move to a sheltered, frost-free location or insulate containers to protect the root crown from freeze damage.
Season Extension
Lovage emerges early in spring and dies back after frost. Mulch crowns with 4–6 inches of straw or compost to protect during winter dormancy.
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to rejuvenate growth and maintain yield.
In cold regions, cover new divisions with frost cloth during late frosts to prevent burn on tender shoots.
Tip: Lovage is among the first herbs to awaken in spring—protecting crowns through winter ensures a vigorous, early start to the next growing season.
Lovage leaves can be harvested once plants reach 12–18 inches tall, typically by midspring of the first year. Clip individual outer stalks close to the base using clean shears, allowing inner growth to continue producing.
For the most concentrated flavor, harvest in the cool morning hours before the sun draws off aromatic oils.
The hollow stems can also be gathered before flowering for use as savory straws or aromatic soup stalks. Seed heads are best collected when they turn brown and dry on the plant in late summer to early autumn.
Roots, if desired, should be lifted in the second or third autumn, washed gently, and sliced for drying.
Flavor & Culinary Use:
Lovage carries a deep, celery-like flavor with bright herbal undertones and a slight hint of anise. The leaves are a perfect substitute for celery in broths, stews, and stuffing, while the stems can be candied or blanched and added to stocks.
Seeds, once dried, can be ground as a warming spice similar to celery seed or used to flavor pickles, breads, and herbal salts.
In European and early American cookery, lovage was prized as both a culinary and medicinal herb, valued for aiding digestion and flavoring hearty, rustic dishes. Its concentrated flavor means a small amount imparts remarkable depth.
Handling & Storage:
Store fresh leaves wrapped in a damp towel within a breathable container or paper bag in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For long-term storage, chop leaves and freeze them in ice cube trays with water or olive oil. The seeds and dried roots should be kept in airtight glass jars in a cool, dark place to preserve volatile oils.
Avoid drying leaves in direct sunlight, as the essential oils dissipate rapidly when exposed to heat.
Growth & Maintenance:
Lovage is a long-lived perennial, often reaching heights of 5–7 feet in fertile soil. It benefits from annual division every 3–4 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
Cut stems back to the ground each autumn after frost, and mulch with compost or straw for winter protection.
Lovage grows best in full sun to partial shade, in deep loamy soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Ensure consistent moisture—especially in summer—but avoid waterlogging.
Sun & Water Tips:
Provide at least 6 hours of sun daily, though light afternoon shade is beneficial in hot regions.
Water deeply once or twice weekly, depending on rainfall, keeping soil evenly moist but never saturated.
Mulching with organic matter conserves water, moderates temperature, and nourishes the soil ecosystem.
Seed Saving:
Lovage is a self-seeding perennial, though controlled seed collection ensures purity. Allow seed umbels to brown fully on the plant, then cut and dry them upside down in paper bags.
Once dry, rub gently to separate seeds, then winnow out the chaff. Store seeds in airtight jars at 40–50 °F. Properly cured seeds remain viable for 3–5 years.
Ecological & Pollinator Notes:
Lovage’s tall umbels attract a diversity of beneficial insects—particularly hoverflies, lacewings, and native bees—making it a cornerstone in pollinator gardens. Its towering growth also serves as a natural windbreak or vertical accent among herbs.
Companion planting with parsley, dill, and chives creates a microhabitat that deters aphids and encourages predatory insects.
Lovage contributes to biodiversity not only through pollinator support but also by preserving Old World medicinal lineages that traveled alongside early European settlers and continue to thrive in heirloom gardens today.
Culinary Pairings & Presentation Tips:
The bold flavor of Lovage pairs perfectly with potatoes, poultry, beans, grains, and root vegetables. Use the leaves sparingly in salads or combine them with butter or cream sauces for an herbal lift.
Candied stems add an old-fashioned charm to desserts or beverages, while crushed seeds infuse liqueurs and herbal tonics with a warm, spicy aroma.
When displayed in bundles at market, Lovage conveys an Old World elegance—its fragrance alone signaling depth, history, and the herbal artistry of traditional cookery.
Aphids (leaf curling, sticky honeydew, and reduced vigor)
Controls: Lovage often attracts aphids in early spring when growth is tender. Rinse plants with a strong spray of water to dislodge them. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days during infestations. Encourage beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies by planting nearby dill, fennel, or yarrow. Avoid overfertilizing with nitrogen, which promotes soft, aphid-prone growth.
Leaf Miners (tunnels or blotches inside leaves, browning patches)
Controls: Remove and destroy affected leaves immediately to break the life cycle. Cover young plants with floating row covers until established. Neem oil can help disrupt egg-laying. Encourage parasitic wasps (Diglyphus isaea) for biological control.
Parsley Worm (Black Swallowtail Caterpillar) (chewed leaves and stems during midsummer)
Controls: These bright green caterpillars with black and yellow banding are the larvae of the Eastern Black Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio polyxenes), an essential native pollinator species across much of North America. Though their feeding can appear heavy, they rarely harm mature parsley plants and should never be killed or treated as pests.
If you find them feeding, gently relocate caterpillars to nearby host plants such as dill, fennel, or Queen Anne’s lace rather than removing or harming them. Consider planting “pollinator rows” or sacrificial host stands of these species to sustain butterfly populations while protecting your main herb crop. Their presence is a sign of a thriving and ecologically balanced garden.
Encourage this harmony by avoiding pesticides entirely, maintaining healthy soil, and embracing these native insects as living proof that your garden supports biodiversity and regeneration — the true measure of ecological success.
Spider Mites (fine webbing, stippling, and bronzed foliage)
Controls: Maintain high humidity and consistent watering. Hose plants to remove mites and dust buildup. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil weekly during hot, dry conditions. Provide partial shade in hot climates to reduce stress-induced infestations.
Diseases
Powdery Mildew (white fungal coating on upper leaf surfaces)
Controls: Increase airflow around plants and avoid overhead watering. Apply organic sulfur or potassium bicarbonate sprays at first sign of infection. Remove heavily infected leaves and ensure the soil is well-drained. Lovage benefits from spacing that allows good ventilation, particularly in humid areas.
Downy Mildew (yellow blotches on top of leaves, gray mold underneath)
Controls: Avoid water splash and crowding. Water at soil level early in the day. Apply copper-based fungicide preventively during wet weather. Rotate crops and do not replant lovage in the same soil for at least two years after infection.
Crown and Root Rot (wilting, yellowing, and plant collapse from overly wet soil)
Controls: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogging. Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendment. Incorporate coarse compost or perlite to improve aeration. Remove and destroy infected plants immediately and disinfect garden tools.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Leaf Yellowing (nutrient deficiency or poor drainage)
Controls: Test soil for nutrient balance. Apply compost or a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which suffocate roots.
Bolting (premature flowering) (caused by heat or drought stress)
Controls: Maintain consistent moisture, provide partial afternoon shade, and harvest young leaves frequently to delay flowering. In hot climates, mulch to keep roots cool.
Wind Burn or Desiccation (dry, brown edges on leaves due to strong winds)
Controls: Lovage grows tall and benefits from a sheltered location. Stake plants as they mature and provide windbreaks to prevent stress and leaf damage.
Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist
Inspect plants weekly for aphids, miners, and mildew.
Provide 18–24 inches of spacing for air circulation.
Water at soil level early in the morning; avoid wet foliage overnight.
Maintain 2–3 inches of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress soil splash.
Rotate crops every two years to prevent buildup of soilborne fungi.
Encourage beneficial insects through diverse companion planting.
Remove diseased or infested foliage immediately and compost only if properly hot.
Avoid overhead watering in the evening to reduce mildew risk.
Q: What is Lovage?
Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a perennial herb native to southern Europe and western Asia, historically valued for its bold, celery-like aroma and flavor. It’s part of the carrot and parsley family (Apiaceae), with tall hollow stems, umbels of yellow flowers, and glossy green leaves. Every part of the plant is edible — the leaves for seasoning, the roots for soups, and the seeds as a spice.
Q: How long does Lovage take to germinate?
Under ideal temperatures between 65–75 °F (18–24 °C), Lovage seeds typically germinate in 14–21 Days. However, germination can be uneven or slow due to seed dormancy. Soaking seeds for 12–24 hours before sowing and maintaining consistent moisture helps speed the process.
Q: How long until Lovage reaches maturity?
Lovage is slow to mature from seed, often requiring its second year to reach full size. In its first season, it forms a rosette of leaves and develops a strong root system. Once established, it can live for many years, growing 5–7 feet tall annually.
Q: What soil conditions does Lovage prefer?
Lovage thrives in deep, rich loamy soil with good drainage and moderate moisture. The ideal soil pH is 6.0–7.0. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure before planting to encourage deep root development. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas, as the roots dislike standing moisture.
Q: How much sunlight does Lovage need?
Lovage performs best in full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in hot southern climates. Too much shade can lead to thinner stems and reduced leaf aroma.
Q: How often should Lovage be watered?
Keep soil evenly moist — neither dry nor soggy. Deep, infrequent watering encourages stronger roots. During dry spells, mulching helps retain soil moisture and prevents stress that can cause early flowering.
Q: Is Lovage a perennial or annual?
Lovage is a hardy perennial that dies back in winter and regrows each spring. It can survive temperatures down to USDA Zone 4 when well-mulched.
Q: Can I grow Lovage in containers?
Yes, though it needs space for its deep roots. Use a container at least 12–16 inches deep, filled with rich potting soil. Ensure good drainage and maintain consistent watering, as containers dry faster.
Q: When and how should I harvest Lovage?
Harvest young leaves as needed once the plant is 12 inches tall. For best flavor, pick before flowering. The stems can be used like celery, and roots may be dug in fall of the second year. Seeds ripen in late summer and can be collected for culinary use or planting.
Q: What are common pests or problems with Lovage?
Lovage is relatively pest-free, though aphids or leaf miners can occasionally appear. Root rot may occur in poorly drained soils. Cut back spent stalks after flowering to keep the plant tidy and prevent self-seeding.
Q: How do I overwinter Lovage?
Cut the stems to the ground after frost and mulch heavily with straw or leaves to protect the crown. In spring, remove the mulch once growth resumes.
Q: Can Lovage be divided or propagated?
Yes. Divide mature clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate the plant and maintain vigor. Each division should contain a healthy portion of root and crown.
Q: How is Lovage used in cooking?
The leaves are aromatic and flavorful, used fresh in soups, salads, or stews. The stems resemble celery in taste but are more pungent. The roots can be eaten like parsnips, and the seeds are used as a spice or tea ingredient.
Q: Can Lovage seeds be saved?
Yes. Allow seed heads to dry naturally on the plant, then collect and store in a cool, dry, and dark place. Lovage is open-pollinated, so seeds will breed true if no other Apiaceae crops (like celery or parsley) are flowering nearby.
Q: What cultural or historical significance does Lovage have?
Lovage has been cultivated since ancient Rome and medieval Europe, valued for both culinary and medicinal uses. It was once believed to purify the body and freshen the breath — even travelers in medieval monasteries carried Lovage leaves in their pockets for this reason. Its enduring presence in European herb gardens makes it one of the oldest continuously cultivated herbs in the Western world.
History & Culture — Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
Lovage carries a legacy that stretches back thousands of years, tracing its ancestry through the rugged mountains and fertile plains of southern Europe and western Asia. Though often associated with parsley due to its flavor and appearance, Lovage stands apart as one of the oldest cultivated herbs in the carrot family, prized by both ancient and medieval peoples for its food, fragrance, and healing properties.
The Romans and Greeks considered Lovage a plant of vitality. Roman soldiers carried the seeds along their marches, using the leaves to flavor broths and the roots to ease digestion. Monastic gardens of the Middle Ages continued this lineage, tending Lovage in walled herbariums where it served as both medicine and seasoning. In medieval Britain, Lovage was a common presence in monastery cloisters, where the stems were candied or steeped in cordials believed to invigorate the spirit.
Its cultivation journey followed the tides of European settlement. As colonists crossed the Atlantic, they brought Lovage seeds to the Americas, where it naturalized in cottage gardens and along field edges. Early settlers used it much like celery or parsley — in soups, stews, and bitters — and Indigenous herbalists incorporated its tonic properties into their own systems of healing.
In the modern era, Lovage has experienced a quiet revival among growers who appreciate its bold, aromatic character. Its towering stalks, reaching up to six feet, stand as reminders of its long cultural endurance — from Roman camps and medieval apothecaries to today’s herb gardens. In every region it has touched, Lovage reflects humanity’s enduring partnership with aromatic plants, those timeless companions of the hearth and field alike.
Choose mature, healthy lovage plants that exhibit strong growth, upright stems, and a rich, aromatic flavor. Select plants that overwinter successfully and resist disease or lodging. Because lovage is a long-lived perennial, you can collect seed annually from established plants once they reach full maturity, typically by the second or third year.
Mark your best plants early in the season and avoid saving from those that bolt prematurely or have weak stems.
2. Flowering and Seed Formation
Lovage sends up tall flower stalks each spring, producing wide, golden-green umbels similar to wild celery or dill. These umbels attract pollinators such as bees, flies, and hoverflies, which are essential for good seed set.
The seeds begin as green and plump, then dry to a light tan or brown as they mature. Wait until at least half the seed umbels on a stalk are fully dry before harvesting to ensure maximum ripeness and viability.
3. Pollination and Isolation
Lovage is insect-pollinated and largely self-fertile but may cross with nearby lovage plants.
For seed purity, isolate by at least 1,000 feet (300 m) from other lovage or wild celery populations. For smaller gardens, use fine mesh isolation cages or bag individual umbels once pollination has begun.
4. Harvesting Seeds
Harvest on a dry morning after dew has evaporated. Clip the entire seed head when most seeds have turned tan and begin to loosen from the umbels. Place the umbels upside-down in paper bags or baskets to finish drying for 1–2 weeks indoors in a shaded, airy location.
Avoid plastic containers, which trap moisture and can lead to mold.
5. Cleaning Seeds (Organic Methods)
When dry, gently rub the umbels between your hands or over a fine-mesh screen to separate seeds from stems and chaff. Remove debris by winnowing or blowing gently across the surface.
For organic sanitization, consider:
Hydrogen peroxide (3%) rinse for 5 minutes, or
Chamomile tea soak for mild antifungal protection.
Dry seeds thoroughly afterward before storing.
6. Drying Seeds
Spread cleaned seeds in a thin layer on parchment or mesh trays and dry in shade at no more than 95°F (35°C) until crisp and brittle.
In humid climates, use a fan or a food dehydrator on the lowest setting (85°F / 29°C). Properly dried seeds snap cleanly under pressure and can be stored safely long-term.
7. Storing Seeds
Store dry seeds in labeled envelopes or airtight glass jars. Add a desiccant packet such as silica gel, powdered milk, or baked rice wrapped in paper to maintain dryness.
Keep seeds in a cool, dark, and dry environment (35–45°F / 1–7°C).
Lovage seeds are short-lived compared to other herbs, remaining viable for 1–3 years under ideal conditions.
8. Testing Seed Viability
Before sowing, test 10 seeds by placing them on a damp paper towel inside a sealed bag or covered container at 70–75°F (21–24°C) for 10–14 days.
Germination results:
8–10: excellent viability
6–7: acceptable
Below 6: refresh seed stock next season
9. Preventing Cross-Pollination
To preserve a pure seed line, grow only one variety of lovage at a time for seed or stagger flowering periods. Bagging seed umbels before they fully open ensures controlled pollination while still allowing airflow.
Always save seed from multiple plants to preserve vigor and regional adaptability.
10. Record Keeping and Documentation
Track each season’s seed harvest with detailed notes:
Parent plant vigor and aroma
Harvest date and drying time
Isolation or bagging method used
Germination test results
Any climate or pest challenges observed
Over time, these records help shape your own regionally adapted lovage line, better suited to your soil and weather.
11. Organic Tips for Success
Use only non-chlorinated or rainwater for rinsing seeds.
Compost leftover stalks and umbels to return nutrients to the soil.
Rotate crops and avoid replanting lovage in the same spot for several years to prevent disease buildup.
Encourage beneficial insects like lacewings, parasitic wasps, and hoverflies to maintain natural pollination and pest control.
Tip: Lovage, once established, will reward your care for decades—each harvest carrying the memory and strength of seasons past.
Uses and Benefits — Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
Culinary Uses
Lovage is a bold, aromatic herb whose flavor bridges celery, parsley, and anise with a touch of spice. Every part of the plant—leaves, stems, roots, and seeds—is edible and intensely flavorful, making it a remarkable multi-use herb in both kitchen and apothecary gardens.
Leaves: Used fresh or dried, they lend a strong herbal note to soups, stews, sauces, and salads. Finely chopped leaves brighten potatoes, lentils, and beans much like celery or parsley but with a richer undertone.
Stems: Young stems can be blanched and eaten like celery or candied for confections and teas. Their hollow shape also makes them a charming natural straw for tomato juice or Bloody Mary cocktails.
Roots: The taproot can be cooked as a mild parsnip substitute—roasted, mashed, or added to soups.
Seeds: Known as “lovage seed,” they resemble celery seed and are used as a spice for pickling, breads, cheeses, and herbal liqueurs.
Preserving and Preparation Methods
Drying: Leaves dry quickly in shade and retain their strong aroma.
Freezing: Chop and freeze in oil or butter cubes for winter cooking.
Pickling & Fermentation: Stems and seeds enhance pickles, krauts, and vinegars with a sharp, savory perfume.
Herbal Vinegar or Salt: Crushed leaves and seeds can be infused into sea salt or vinegar for seasoning blends.
Nutritional Benefits
Lovage is nutrient-dense and long valued in herbal traditions:
Vitamins & Minerals: High in vitamins C, B-complex, and essential minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium.
Digestive Support: Acts as a natural carminative, easing bloating and aiding digestion.
Diuretic Qualities: Traditionally used to support kidney and urinary tract health.
Respiratory Use: Mildly expectorant, used in folk remedies for soothing coughs and congestion.
While not a substitute for medical treatment, it remains a staple in traditional European herbalism for digestive and circulatory support.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Lovage traces its lineage to ancient Mediterranean and Roman gardens, where it was prized for both flavor and medicine. Monastic gardens in medieval Europe spread it widely, cementing its place in old-world cookery.
Today, it is experiencing a revival among chefs and seedkeepers who value its intensity and versatility.
Adaptability: Lovage thrives in rich, moist soil and partial sun to full light. Once established, it grows into a hardy perennial—often 5 to 6 feet tall—and returns for decades with minimal care.
Economic Value: A small number of plants can produce abundant harvests of leaves and seed, making it excellent for cottage-scale herb production.
Everyday Benefits and Kitchen Versatility
Lovage harmonizes beautifully with potatoes, poultry, eggs, beans, and grains. A small amount goes a long way.
Soups & Broths: Replace celery for a richer, aromatic profile.
Herbal Seasoning: Mix dried lovage with salt or pepper for savory blends.
Teas & Tonics: Infuse leaves and seeds for a cleansing, herbal drink.
Its distinctive, savory scent and bright green foliage also make it an attractive companion herb in both culinary and ornamental plantings.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Pollinator Attraction: Lovage’s umbels of yellow-green flowers attract hoverflies, bees, and predatory wasps.
Perennial Stability: Provides long-term habitat and food for beneficial insects.
Companion Role: Its strong aroma deters certain pests and enhances the health of nearby crops such as carrots and brassicas.
Tip: Lovage is the “herb for generations”—one planting can feed and flavor kitchens for decades, uniting ancient herbal craft with modern culinary creativity.
Shipped from U.S.A.
Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
Triple tested
We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
Soil Readiness
for Parsley Plants (Petroselinum crispum)
Where to get a soil test
Best option: your state’s Cooperative Extension soil testing lab.
Tip: Arid or alkaline regions often use Olsen (bicarbonate) for phosphorus.
Interprets P by extractant and assumes ppm. Results are approximate.
Enter at least one value above, then Calculate.
Summary
Recommended Amendments (per 100 sq ft)
How to Use
Mix P and K sources into the top 3-6" a week or two before sowing or transplanting.
If pH is low, apply lime 3-4 weeks pre-plant or in fall or winter.
Side-dress parsley with about 0.05-0.10 lb N per 100 sq ft after establishment or after first clipping, then lightly every 3-4 weeks as needed.
Keep soil evenly moist and mulch to moderate heat and reduce bitterness or early bolting.
Add 1-2" finished compost yearly to build organic matter.
Container mix - use a peat or coco based mix with compost and slow-release organic fertilizer. pH is usually already correct.
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Alliance of Native Seedkeepers
Parsley Seeds - Lovage
$200 USD
Unit price /
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Description
Discover the unique charm of Lovage Parsley Seeds, a distinctive addition to your herb garden. This perennial herb stands tall, reaching heights of up to six feet, with lush, celery-like leaves that add a robust, savory flavor to a variety of dishes. Known for its vigorous growth, Lovage thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a resilient choice for seasoned gardeners and novices alike.
Typically maturing in 80 to 90 days, Lovage is prized for its versatility in the kitchen. The leaves can be used fresh in salads or dried for seasoning, while the stems serve as a flavorful substitute for celery in soups and stews. Its strong, aromatic presence enhances the depth of broths and stocks, offering a unique twist to traditional recipes.
As an added bonus, Lovage attracts beneficial insects to your garden, promoting a healthy ecosystem. Its tall, hollow stems and clusters of yellow-green flowers not only add visual interest but also support pollinators. Whether you're cultivating a culinary herb garden or enhancing the biodiversity of your landscape, Lovage Parsley Seeds provide both beauty and utility.
