No backyard? No problem! If you’re craving that deep, savory flavor of fresh lovage (often called the “Maggi herb” because it smells just like the famous seasoning), you can easily grow it right on your balcony in a container. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your lovage lush, happy, and ready for harvest.
How to Start Your Lovage from Seed
If you’d rather start from scratch than buy a nursery plant, you’re in luck—growing lovage from seed is a breeze. Plus, if you’re growing it indoors, you can get started any time of year.
Here’s the best way to get those seeds going:
- Pick a pot that holds at least 2 liters (about half a gallon) to give the roots some breathing room.
- Fill it up with a high-quality herb or vegetable potting mix.
- Sow your seeds and cover them lightly with a layer of soil.
- Give them a good drink of water right away.
- Keep the soil consistently moist while you wait for them to sprout.
You should see the first little leaves popping up in about 20 days. Lovage loves a warm room during the germination phase, so keep it cozy and don’t let that soil dry out!
Let There Be Light
Lovage is a sun-seeker. It’ll do just fine on a bright living room windowsill, in a sunny kitchen window, or even in a well-lit glass stairwell. The main thing is that its location gets plenty of natural light.
That said, if you have the space, lovage really thrives outdoors on a balcony or patio where it can soak up the sun and fresh air.
Choosing the Right Soil
Since you’ll likely be using these leaves in your cooking, you want to be picky about your soil. Skip the standard flower potting soil—it often contains synthetic fertilizers that you don’t really want ending up in your soup! Stick to organic mixes specifically designed for herbs or veggies.
Ideally, your lovage wants soil that is:
- Well-draining
- Rich in nutrients
- Slightly loamy
- A bit limey (calcareous)
Aim for a soil pH between 6 and 7 for a perfectly happy plant.
Keeping Your Lovage Thriving
To keep your “Maggi herb” in tip-top shape, follow these simple care tips:
- Water regularly. Container plants dry out faster than those in the ground! Even during winter, give it a little water on days when it’s not freezing.
- Feed your plant every four weeks from April through August.
- Prune away any wilted leaves or yellowing stems as soon as you see them.
- Regular trimming isn’t just for looks—it also helps prevent the plant from flowering, which keeps the leaves tasting their best.
