Growing Yarrow from Seed: Container and Garden Guide

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) isn’t just another pretty flower – it’s a fascinating plant that breaks conventional gardening rules. While most plants crave rich, fertile soil, yarrow proves that sometimes, less is more. This resilient herb actually thrives in poor, dry soil conditions where other plants struggle to survive.

If you’re looking to start growing this remarkable plant, you’re about to embark on a rewarding journey. Yarrow offers a perfect combination of ornamental beauty, medicinal properties, and pollinator attraction.

I ordered my premium medicinal seeds here to begin my yarrow garden, and I’m excited to share my expertise on cultivating this extraordinary herb.

Historical and Traditional Uses

Yarrow’s rich history spans continents and cultures. Native Americans used it for everything from fever reduction to wound healing, earning it the nickname “soldier’s woundwort.” Greek mythology even claims that Achilles used yarrow to treat his soldiers’ wounds, hence its botanical name, Achillea millefolium. Today, herbalists continue to value yarrow for its versatile healing properties.

Getting Started with Seeds

Quality seeds are crucial for success. The Medicinal Garden Kit provides excellent yarrow varieties, but any fresh seeds from a trusted supplier will work well. Yarrow seeds typically remain viable for 2-3 years when properly stored.

Timing Your Planting

• Spring planting: After the last frost date
• Fall planting: 6-8 weeks before first frost
• Indoor starting: 6-8 weeks before transplanting
• Strategic timing for continuous blooming

Soil Preparation

Unlike many garden plants, yarrow prefers lean soil conditions:

• Well-draining soil is essential
• Avoid rich, heavily amended soil
• pH tolerance between 6.0 and 8.0
• Minimal organic matter needed
• Good drainage is crucial for root health

Garden Growing

Plant seeds just beneath the soil surface, as they need light to germinate:

• Space seeds 12-18 inches apart
• Rows 24-36 inches apart
• Keep soil lightly moist until germination
• Thin seedlings when they reach 2-3 inches
• Full sun exposure preferred

Container Growing

Yarrow adapts well to container culture:

• Choose containers at least 12 inches deep
• Ensure excellent drainage
• Use lean potting mix
• Position in full sun
• Allow soil to dry between waterings
• Consider dwarf varieties for containers

Medicinal Benefits

Traditional herbalists value yarrow for its:

• Fever-reducing properties
• Wound-healing abilities
• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Blood-moving properties
• Digestive support

Note: Always consult a healthcare provider before using any plant medicinally.

Maintenance

Yarrow’s low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for busy gardeners:

• Minimal watering once established
• No fertilization needed
• Deadhead to promote blooming
• Division every 3-4 years
• Watch for spreading tendency

Harvesting

Flowers

• Harvest when fully opened
• Cut in morning after dew dries
• Leave some flowers for pollinators
• Cut stems back to base after flowering

Leaves

• Harvest young leaves throughout growing season
• Morning harvesting recommended
• Cut stems at base
• Leave enough