Mugwort Seeds

Direct sow Mugwort plant seeds in spring after the last frost, or in late fall so the seeds go through natural cold stratification over winter. If you're starting in spring, the seeds should be cold stratified prior sowing. Put Artemisia Vulgaris seeds in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 weeks, and that will speed up germination. After that, press the seeds onto the soil surface and leave them uncovered. Sow 3 to 4 seeds per hole, 10 to 12 inches apart, then thin to 24 inches once seedlings are a few inches tall. Mugwort seeds germinate in 7 to 21 days under favorable conditions.

Mugwort requires at least 4 to 6 hours of direct light per day. It handles dry, poor, and rocky soils without issue. The one condition it cannot tolerate is waterlogged ground, so avoid low spots and poorly drained areas. Water regularly while plants are young and getting established, then reduce waterings once they reach about 12 inches tall. Mature Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) survives drought well and needs only a deep soak once or twice a week during the dry periods.

Cut plants back in early spring before new growth appears. Mugwort spreads aggressively through both seeds and underground rhizomes. To prevent spreading from seeds, remove flower heads before they mature. Harvest leaves any time during the growing season, but pick before the plant flowers for the best flavor.