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Depth to Plant
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Spacing Between Plants |
Days to Germinate (Sprout)
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Germination
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Best Season to Plant_________ |
Sun
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Soil
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Good Plant Companions |
Days to Maturity
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| 1/2" Deep | 5-18" Apart | 7-14 Days | 68° F | Spring | Full Sun | Dry and well drained | Fruits (in particular figs), raspberries and lavender | 75 |
Getting Started with Rue: Essential Basics
Rue is a distinctive perennial herb with feathery, blue-green foliage and small yellow flowers. While it's often grown for ornamental purposes, many gardeners appreciate its historical significance and unique appearance in the garden. Growing rue organically means working with nature to create the ideal conditions for this hardy plant to thrive.
Choosing the Right Location
Rue thrives in full sun, so select a spot in your garden that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant is exceptionally hardy and adapts well to various soil types, though it prefers well-draining soil. Unlike many herbs, rue doesn't demand rich, fertile soil—in fact, it performs better in leaner conditions. If your soil tends to retain moisture, amend it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
Planting Your Rue
You can start rue from seeds indoors about six to eight weeks before your last frost date, or sow seeds directly in the garden once soil has warmed. Space plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for mature spread. When planting seedlings, handle them gently and water lightly until established. Once settled in the ground, rue becomes quite drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering except during extended dry spells.
Organic Care and Maintenance
Water moderately during the growing season, reducing frequency as the plant matures. Rue rarely needs fertilizing in average garden soil. Prune back in early spring to encourage bushier growth and maintain a neat appearance. The plant's natural resilience means it's rarely bothered by major pests or diseases, making it an excellent choice for organic gardeners seeking low-maintenance options.
Harvesting and Enjoying Your Rue
Once established, you can harvest leaves throughout the growing season by pinching off young stems. The foliage smells distinctive and can be dried for later use. Regular harvesting also encourages the plant to remain full and compact. Rue's attractive appearance makes it a beautiful addition to herb gardens, flower borders, and container plantings.
In Summary
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When to Plant Rue seeds need a soil temp of at least 70°F for germination. It grows best when started indoors and then transplanted outside after all danger of frost has passed.
How to Plant Rue is a wonderful beginner gardeners plant, because it doesn't require much over seeing.
When to Harvest Harvesting fresh leaves can cause dermatitis in sensitive people. On hot sunny days, this is especially true because that is when the essential oil is strongest. Take precaution when harvesting and do not consume if you are pregnant. |
