Seed Treatment (Cold Stratification Recommended)
Cold Stratification Steps:
- Place seeds in a moist paper towel, or mix with damp sand or vermiculite.
- Seal in a plastic bag and refrigerate at 35–40°F (1–4°C) for 2–4 weeks.
- Check weekly to ensure moisture is consistent (not soggy or dry).
- After stratification, sow immediately.
Sowing Instructions
- When to Sow:
- Indoors: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before your last expected frost date.
- Outdoors: Direct sow in late fall (for natural stratification) or early spring.
- Soil Requirements:
- Thrives in well-draining, sandy or rocky soil.
- Tolerates poor, dry conditions once established.
- Ideal pH: 6.0–7.5.
- Light Requirements:
- Requires full sun (6+ hours daily) for best growth and silvery foliage.
- Sowing Depth:
- Surface sow seeds — do not cover, as they need light to germinate.
- Gently press into the soil for good contact.
- Watering:
- Keep the soil evenly moist during germination.
- Once established, very drought-tolerant — avoid overwatering.
- Germination Time:
- Germinates in 14–21 days under ideal conditions at 65–70°F (18–21°C).
- Spacing:
- Thin or transplant seedlings 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) apart to allow room for spreading.
Growing Tips
- Artemisia ludoviciana is a fragrant, silvery-leaved perennial valued for its drought tolerance, deer resistance, and wildlife habitat value.
- Spreads by rhizomes — plant where it can naturalize or be controlled.
- Ideal for xeriscapes, pollinator gardens, borders, and medicinal herb gardens.
- Trim back in spring to encourage new growth and compact form.
- Can be used fresh or dried in aromatherapy, smudge sticks, and natural insect repellents.
Bring a touch of the prairie to your garden with this resilient, silvery beauty!