How to Grow Lovage in Massachusetts

Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is an aromatic perennial herb that belongs to the celery family. Known for its distinct flavor that resembles a cross between celery and parsley, lovage can be a valuable addition to your herb garden. Growing lovage in Massachusetts is particularly rewarding due to the state’s temperate climate, which provides ideal conditions for this herb. In this article, we will explore how to grow lovage effectively in Massachusetts, covering everything from soil preparation to pest management.

Understanding Lovage

Before diving into the growing process, it’s essential to understand what lovage is. Lovage is a tall herbaceous plant that can reach heights of up to six feet. Its leaves are large, dark green, and somewhat glossy, making it visually appealing in any garden. The plant produces small yellow-green flowers in the summer, which also attract pollinators. Beyond its culinary uses in soups, salads, and as a seasoning, lovage has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties.

Choosing the Right Location

Lovage thrives best in full sun to partial shade. In Massachusetts, choosing a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day will promote healthy growth. If possible, select a spot that is protected from strong winds, as lovage can become top-heavy and susceptible to wind damage as it matures.

Soil Requirements

Lovage prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 is optimal for growth. Massachusetts soils can vary significantly; therefore, it’s beneficial to conduct a soil test before planting. Testing kits are available at local garden centers or through your county’s agricultural extension office.

To prepare the soil for planting:

1. Clear the Area: Remove any weeds, rocks, or debris from the planting site.
2. Amend the Soil: Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enhance nutrient content and improve drainage.
3. Tilling: Loosen the soil with a garden fork or tiller. Aim for a depth of about 12 inches to ensure good root development.

Starting Lovage from Seeds or Transplants

You can grow lovage from seeds or transplants. Both methods have their benefits, but starting from transplants may yield faster results.

From Seeds

1. Seed Germination: If you opt for seeds, start them indoors approximately 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date (usually around mid-April in Massachusetts). Use seed trays filled with moist seed-starting mix.
2. Sowing Depth: Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep and keep them warm and moist until they germinate, which typically takes 14-21 days.
3. Transplanting Outdoors: Once seedlings are about 4-6 inches tall and all danger of frost has passed (usually by late May), harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting them into the garden.

From Transplants

Purchasing young lovage plants from a local nursery can save time and effort. When selecting transplants:

1. Choose Healthy Plants: Look for vigorous plants with lush foliage and no signs of disease or pests.
2. Spacing: Space plants about 18-24 inches apart to allow for their full height and spread.

Watering Lovage

Watering is crucial during the establishment phase of lovage growth. This herb requires consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.

1. Establishment Period: Water newly planted lovage regularly—about an inch of water per week—especially during dry spells.
2. Established Plants: Once established, lovage is somewhat drought-tolerant but will benefit from supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods.

Fertilization

Lovage generally does not require heavy feeding if grown in nutrient-rich soil amended with compost during planting. However, applying a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring can promote robust growth:

1. Spring Application: Use a slow-release organic fertilizer according to package instructions.
2. Side Dressing: In mid-summer, you may apply additional compost around the base of the plants as a side dressing.

Pruning and Harvesting Lovage

Pruning is essential for encouraging bushier growth and preventing legginess in lovage plants.

1. Pinching Back: In early spring when new growth appears, pinch back young stems to encourage branching.
2. Harvesting Leaves: You can begin harvesting leaves once plants are well-established (after about 3-4 months). Cut leaves close to the base when needed; this encourages continued growth.
3. Flower Management: To maintain leaf production and prevent bitterness in flavor, consider removing flower stalks as they appear.

Pest Management

While lovage is relatively pest-resistant, keeping an eye on common pests is advisable:

1. Aphids: These tiny insects can infest lovage foliage but are manageable with insecticidal soap or neem oil if detected early.
2. Slugs and Snails: These creatures may feed on lovage leaves; handpicking or using organic slug bait can help control their population.
3. Diseases: To prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew:
4. Ensure adequate spacing between plants for air circulation.
5. Avoid overhead watering in the late afternoon or evening.

Winter Care

Lovage is a hardy perennial that can withstand cold temperatures typical of Massachusetts winters.

1. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch (straw or shredded leaves) around the base of the plants in late fall to insulate roots against freezing temperatures.
2. Cutting Back: After the first hard frost, cut back dead foliage to ground level to promote healthy new growth come spring.

Culinary Uses of Lovage

Once you’ve successfully grown your lovage plant, you’ll appreciate its versatility in the kitchen:

• Soups & Stews: Add fresh lovage leaves during cooking for an aromatic flavor boost.
• Salads & Dressings: Use chopped leaves fresh in salads or blended into dressings.
• Herbal Tea: Steep leaves in hot water for a refreshing herbal tea.

Conclusion

Growing lovage in Massachusetts can be a delightful venture for any home gardener. With its striking appearance and culinary versatility, this perennial herb deserves a place in your garden beds or containers. By following these guidelines on site selection, soil preparation, watering, pruning, and pest management, you can ensure robust growth and enjoy the unique flavor that lovage brings to your culinary creations throughout the growing season and beyond!