If youβre building a backyard apothecary, feverfew is one of the standout stars in the Nicole Apelian Medical Garden Kit, which also includes healing herbs like calendula, chamomile, California poppy, echinacea, evening primrose, marshmallow, chicory, lavender, and yarrow. This post focuses on growing feverfew from seed, but the same beginner-friendly methods apply to many of the other herbs in the kit!
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a cheerful daisy-like medicinal herb with ancient healing uses. Whether youβre crafting your own home apothecary or just want to add beauty to your garden, growing feverfew from seed is easy and rewarding.
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What Is Feverfew?
Feverfew is a short-lived perennial herb that thrives in full sun and produces small daisy-like flowers. Traditionally used to support wellness, feverfewβs leaves and flowers have been harvested for natural remedies. Its compact size, pest resistance, and self-seeding ability make it ideal for any herb garden.
Native to southeastern Europe, this medicinal herb has spread globally and is especially loved by herbalists for its role in teas, tinctures, and headache relief.
You may enjoy reading: Feverfew For Migraine Relief
Growing Feverfew from Seed
Growing feverfew from seed is easy. Growing conditions are simple, sun, well-draining soil, and moderate watering.
Step 1: Choose High-Quality Feverfew Seeds
Look for untreated, non-GMO seeds such as those in the Nicole Apelian Garden Kit. Or buy single packs:
β Buy Feverfew Seeds on Amazon
- Perennial Herb β Feverfew is a bushy perennial herb with daisy-like white flowers with yellow centers and deeply lobed gβ¦
- Beautiful and Beneficial β Besides its potential health benefits, Feverfew is a lovely addition to any garden with its cβ¦
- Sustainable Living β By cultivating your own Feverfew plants, you are contributing to a sustainable lifestyle. Not only β¦
Step 2: Use the Right Supplies
Start seeds indoors 6β8 weeks before your last frost, or direct-sow outdoors when the soil warms.
Essential tools:
π± Seed Starting Trays
9 deep cells with smart handles for mess-free transplants. Includes humidity dome and erasable labels. Reusable, durable, and perfect for indoor herb gardening.
πͺ΄ Organic Potting Soil
- γOptimal Germination EnvironmentγOmitgoter Seedling Soil is specially formulated to provide the ideal conditions for seeβ¦
- γEnhanced Drainage and AerationγThe carefully balanced mix ensures excellent drainage and aeration, preventing waterloggβ¦
- γpH Balanced for SeedlingsγSpecially pH balanced to create an optimal growing environment, our soil supports vigorous grβ¦
Grow Lights for Indoor Growing
If youβre starting seeds indoors or your windows donβt get much light, a compact grow light can make a big difference. This clip-on full-spectrum LED grow light comes with an integrated circulating fan and timer, perfect for growing feverfew seedlings indoors.
π Plant Labels
Step 3: Sow and Cover the Seeds Lightly
Scatter seeds onto moist soil and press gently. Donβt bury them, they need light to germinate. Keep trays in a warm, bright location (70Β°F/21Β°C).
Germination usually occurs in 10β14 days. Mist soil regularly to keep it evenly moist.
Step 4: Transplant Carefully
Once seedlings have 2β3 sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or your garden.
Spacing: 12β18 inches apart
Durable, weather-resistant pots with built-in trays and clean matte finish. Great for transplanting feverfew and other herbs indoors or out.
Feverfew Plant Care Tips
- π Full sun (6+ hours daily)
- π§ Water when topsoil feels dry
- πΏ Add compost or mulch to retain moisture and block weeds
- πΎ Thin self-seeded babies in early spring if they overcrowd
Feverfew is deer-resistant and may deter some insect pests. However, aphids and spider mites can occasionally show up. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can manage them.
Feverfew pairs well with calming herbs like chamomile and yarrow in your herbal tea garden.
βοΈ How to Harvest Feverfew
Harvest leaves and flowers in the morning after dew dries. Use scissors to clip stems at the base.
This rustic pine herb drying rack features a Tree of Life design thatβs both decorative and functional. With space to hang up to 11 feverfew or flower bundles, itβs perfect for air-drying your harvest the natural way. Ideal for herbalists, gardeners, and kitchen witches, this wall-mounted rack saves space and adds earthy charm to your apothecary setup.
Dry them in bunches hung upside down or use a dehydrator. Store in airtight glass jars away from light.
Feverfew may be used in tea, capsules, or salves. Always consult a health professional before medicinal use.
πΏ Feverfew Growing Kit: Amazon Picks
Looking for a live plant instead? We now offer feverfew plants for sale, including this Feverfew Plant in a 2.5β³ Pot by Smoke Camp Crafts on Amazon. Itβs organically grown, deer-resistant, and ready to transplant. Whether youβre browsing for a single feverfew plant for sale or building your herbal garden from scratch, this is a great option for quick results.
Feverfew Plant, (Tanacetum parthenium) 2.5 inch Pot
Build your own starter bundle:
- πΏ Feverfew Seeds
- πΏ Herb Drying Rack
- πΏ Konfintos Dehydrator
- πΏ Herb Gardening Tools
- π‘ Grow Light for Herbs
- πͺ΄ Potting Mix
- π Modern Planter Pots β Durable pots with trays, perfect for transplanting feverfew
- π Root Drops β Liquid Rooting Hormone β Boost root growth and reduce transplant shock
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β Feverfew FAQs
How long does it take feverfew to grow from seed?
Feverfew seeds typically germinate within 10 to 14 days. Once germinated, the seedlings can be transplanted and will reach flowering maturity in about 10 to 12 weeks, depending on conditions.
Can I grow feverfew in pots or containers?
Yes, feverfew grows well in pots. Use a container with good drainage and place it in full sun. Make sure to water when the topsoil feels dry and consider using compost for healthy growth.
Do I need to cover feverfew seeds when planting?
No, feverfew seeds need light to germinate. Simply press them into moist soil and leave them uncovered in a bright location until they sprout.
What can I do with harvested feverfew?
You can dry the leaves and flowers for herbal teas, make a tincture, or use them in capsules or salves. Feverfew is traditionally used for headaches, inflammation, and overall wellness support.
Where can I buy feverfew seeds or plants?
You can find feverfew seeds on Amazon, in medicinal seed kits like the Nicole Apelian set, or at specialty herb nurseries. If you prefer a head start, you can also purchase live feverfew plants ready to transplant.
Quick Reference: Growing Feverfew from Seed
| Basic Growing Information | Growing Conditions |
|---|---|
| Difficulty Level: Easy | Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade |
| Time to Germination: 14-21 days | Soil Type: Well-draining, average fertility |
| Time to Maturity: 70-75 days | Soil pH: 6.0-7.0 |
| Plant Height: 18-36 inches | Temperature Range: 60-70Β°F (15-21Β°C) |
| Spacing: 12-18 inches apart | Water Needs: Moderate, drought tolerant once established |
| USDA Zones: 5-9 |
Growing Locations
Container Growing: β Good
Indoor Growing: β Possible
Outdoor Growing: β Ideal
Historical & Traditional Significance
Astrological Association: Venus
Traditional Uses:
Migraine prevention, Fever reduction, Anti-inflammatory, Womenβs health support