Epazote Seeds

Start Epazote seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date for a jump-start, or direct sow outside after the last frost date when the night temperature remains above 55°F. Surface sow seeds, and don't cover them, as Epazote seeds for planting require light contact with the soil to ensure proper germination. Mix seeds with a small amount of dry sand to ensure even distribution, and avoid seeds clumping. Epazote seeds for planting should sprout in 7-14 days at a soil temperature of 70°F. 

Before you buy Epazote seeds note that this herb requires full sun. In shade it gets leggy and stop producing leaves altogether. It tolerates sandy, rocky, or nutrient-thin soil, just be sure it drains well. Epazote has a tendency to rot at the roots if the soil is too wet, so if your soil tends to hold water, raise the bed or add some large grit to the soil. Established Epazote plants are drought-tolerant.

Thin Epazote herb sprouts to 6 inches apart when they're 2-3 inches tall. Remove flower heads as they develop, since when Epazote goes to seed, it stops producing leaves and loses its taste. Don't fertilize it heavily — a little balanced fertilizer once a month is enough. Harvest outer leaves regularly rather than cutting the whole plant — it encourages bushy regrowth and keeps harvests going through the season.