Although maligned in modern times due to its hairy leaves that cause skin irrititations, Stinging Nettle actually has many favourable attributes.... Read More
Exposure Partial to full sun
Matures in 90 days
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Although maligned in modern times due to its hairy leaves that cause skin irrititations, Stinging Nettle actually has many favourable attributes. It is a nutrient-rich food (cooking neutralizes the stinging) and both the leaves and roots boasts a number of potent medicinal properties. Nettle can also be grown as a dye plant as well as for its fiber in the stems to make fabric or paper. These perennials provide a habitat for butterflies and other beneficial insects as well. For consumption, the leaves should be harvested when young and tender in late winter/early spring. Pick the top-most two or three pairs of leaves. Once mature, whole plants can be dug up. Nettles can become quickly invasive and requires careful management--consider growing in containers.
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About Stinging Nettle
About Stinging Nettle
Although maligned in modern times due to its hairy leaves that cause skin irrititations, Stinging Nettle actually has many favourable attributes. It is a nutrient-rich food (cooking neutralizes the stinging) and both the leaves and roots boasts a number of potent medicinal properties. Learn how to grow nettle below.
Latin
Latin
Urtica dioica
Family: Urticaceae
Difficulty
Difficulty
Easy
Season & Zone
Season & Zone
Season: All seasons (perennial)
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Timing
Timing
Start seeds indoors late winter and transplant in early spring or direct sow in container or its permanent spot in early spring. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21°C (70°F). Seeds should sprout in approximately 14 days.
Starting
Starting
Press seeds lightly into soil and cover with a thin layer of soil, about 0.5cm (0.25”). Seeds require light to germinate. Keep moist until seedlings are established. If growing directly in the soil, thin to 20-30cm (8-12″) apart.
Growing
Growing
Nettle is a perennial and generally low maintenance. It prefers rich soil and require consistent moisture to thrive. Providing mulch around the plant will help retain moisture. Be aware that nettle can become invasive if not managed. To prevent spreading, consider growing in containers.
Harvest
Harvest
Pick tops of plants before they flower when leaves are young and tender. Harvest no more than a third of the plant at a time.
Seed Info
Seed Info
Usual seed life: 3 years.
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Start seeds indoors late winter and transplant in early spring or direct sow in container or its permanent spot in early spring. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21°C (70°F). Seeds should sprout in approximately 14 days.
Press seeds lightly into soil and cover with a thin layer of soil, about 0.5cm (0.25”). Seeds require light to germinate. Keep moist until seedlings are established. If growing directly in the soil, thin to 20-30cm (8-12″) apart.
Nettle is a perennial and generally low maintenance. It prefers rich soil and require consistent moisture to thrive. Providing mulch around the plant will help retain moisture. Be aware that nettle can become invasive if not managed. To prevent spreading, consider growing in containers.
Usual seed life: 3 years.
Pick tops of plants before they flower when leaves are young and tender. Harvest no more than a third of the plant at a time.
