Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a perennial herb that is often overlooked in favor of more familiar culinary herbs. With its tall stature, aromatic leaves, and unique flavor reminiscent of celery, lovage is an excellent addition to any garden, especially for those in Wisconsin. This article will guide you through the essential steps and considerations for successfully growing lovage in the Badger State.
Before diving into the growing process, it’s important to understand the characteristics of lovage. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, lovage thrives in temperate climates and prefers areas with well-drained soil. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and produces small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The leaves are not only edible but also highly fragrant, making them a great choice for enhancing soups, stews, salads, and even cocktails.
Wisconsin has a varied climate, ranging from humid continental in the southern regions to subarctic conditions in the north. Lovage flourishes best in USDA hardiness zones 3-9, which encompasses most of Wisconsin. The herb prefers areas with full sun to partial shade, so finding a suitable spot in your garden is crucial.
Lovage grows best in rich, loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. To create optimal growing conditions for your lovage:
Soil Testing: Consider conducting a soil test to check the pH level and nutrient content. Lovage prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 – 7.0).
Amendments: If your soil is lacking nutrients, incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
Drainage: Ensure proper drainage by mixing sand or perlite into heavier soils to prevent root rot.
You can either start lovage from seeds or purchase established seedlings from local nurseries. If you’re starting from seeds:
Seed Selection: Choose high-quality seeds from reputable suppliers.
Timing: In Wisconsin, it’s best to start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date (around late May). Alternatively, sow seeds directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
Containers: Use seed trays or small pots filled with seed-starting mix.
Sowing Depth: Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and water gently.
Light & Temperature: Provide ample light using grow lights or by placing them in a sunny window; maintain a temperature of around 70°F for optimal germination.
When seedlings have developed several true leaves and outdoor temperatures are consistently above 50°F at night:
Hardening Off: Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions over a week by placing them outside for a few hours each day.
Spacing: Transplant seedlings into the garden with a spacing of about 12-18 inches apart to allow for their wide spread.
Lovage enjoys consistently moist soil but does not tolerate extreme wetness:
Watering Schedule: Water regularly during dry spells, especially when the plants are young and establishing roots.
Mulching: Apply organic mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
A balanced fertilizer can promote healthy growth:
Initial Application: Incorporate a slow-release fertilizer into the planting hole at transplanting time.
Ongoing Care: After the first few weeks of growth, you may apply additional fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season based on your soil test results.
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents flowering too early:
Pinching Off Tips: Pinch off the tips of young plants to promote branching.
Removing Flowers: To prolong leaf production, remove flower stalks as they appear since flowering may diminish leaf quality.
While lovage is relatively pest-resistant, it can occasionally attract aphids or caterpillars:
Monitoring: Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation.
Natural Remedies: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if pests become problematic.
Disease Prevention: Provide good air circulation around plants by spacing them properly and avoiding overhead watering to minimize fungal diseases.
You can begin harvesting lovage leaves once the plant reaches about 12 inches tall:
Harvesting Method: Use scissors or garden shears to cut leaves at the base without removing too much foliage at once.
Ongoing Harvesting: Regular harvesting encourages further growth; however, avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at any time.
Storage Options: Fresh lovage leaves can be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for longer storage.
As a perennial herb, lovage will return year after year:
Cutting Back: In late fall, cut back wilted foliage to about an inch above ground level.
Mulching: Add a layer of mulch over the winter months to protect roots from freezing temperatures.
Companion Planting: Consider planting lovage near tomatoes, peppers, or cabbage as it can repel pests like aphids while attracting beneficial insects.
Culinary Uses: Explore various recipes that incorporate lovage—the leaves can be used fresh or dried for seasoning dishes like soups, risottos, potato salads, or blended into herb butters.
Experimentation: Don’t hesitate to experiment with lovage; some gardeners use it creatively as an ornamental plant due to its impressive height and lush green foliage.
Growing lovage in Wisconsin can be a rewarding experience that adds both beauty and flavor to your home garden. With its straightforward cultivation requirements and numerous culinary applications, lovage deserves a space in every herb enthusiast’s garden bed. By following these guidelines—from selecting seeds and preparing soil to managing pests and winter care—you can enjoy fresh lovage year after year while savoring its unique taste right from your backyard!