Growing lovage outdoors and in flowerpot

Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a very aromatic herb that we add to various broths to give the soup the typical aroma. Try smell it or taste it and you are going to feel the strong aroma. But lovage is much more than a taste enhancer. It has many other uses and it is very beneficial to our health. People usually make a decoction out of lovage but because of its strength it should not be used by people under the age of 18.

The effects of lovage

This aromatic herb is used as a natural aphrodisiac because it improves blood flow in genitals. It is also used to treat various digestion or urinary system problems.Lovage is also known for its detoxifying properties. Anyone with a long-lasting or dry cough will certainly benefit from this aromatic herb. It also alleviates negative symptoms related to stomach ulcers. Lovage prevents blood clots.

Growing location

If you want to grow lovage you should choose a warm and bright place although it can handle partial shade. But sunny and bright spot is much better. If you plant at a sunny spot do not forget to water regularly. Do not grow lovage in close proximity to other plants – herbs, strawberries or blueberries. Thanks to its very strong aroma it may “transmit” its aroma to surrounding crops. This could be very unpleasant, especially for berries. Soil pH should range from 6 to 7.

Photo: Pixabay

Moisture is important

Lovage needs constantly moist soil. Droughts may harm it. But as with any plant, do not over water. Maintaining proper soil moisture may be problematic, especially during summer, so you should use a layer of mulch to make it easier. Lovage can deal with calcium easily, so you can use hard tap water without any problems, but as a rule of thumb, soft or long-standing water is always better.

Growing lovage outdoors

Lovage is pretty demanding and needs plenty of nutrients so, it is good to enrich soil with compost before planting. You may plant lovage in your garden in the second half of May, but you may also pre-grow at home. When transplanting, make sure that all roots are covered with soil. Water well after planting.

Growing in a flowerpot

You may also grow in a flowerpot and of course you need a fertile soil again. The pot should be really big and deep to allow proper root formation. A drainage layer (coarse gravel, expanded clay, pebbles, etc.) on the bottom of the flower pot is very important to drain the excess of water. Add fertilizer when you water – once every two weeks. Do not forget to protect the plant from frost in winter and transplant it into a new soil in the spring – you may need to use even larger pot or divide the root system and transplant in two pots.

Source: https://muratordom.pl/ogrod/rosliny/ziola-w-ogrodzie-lubczyk-ogrodowy-uprawa-lubczyka-w-ogrodzie-aa-y2Mo-Ro8q-h5e8.html

Preview photo: Pixabay