Sowing and Growing St John's Wort

Growing St. John's wort from seeds: St. John's wort is a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia. It gets its name from the fact that it blooms on and can usually be harvested around June 24, the day of birth of John the Baptist. The plant can reach a height of 20 to 80 cm and is very hardy. St. John's wort blooms from June to September with yellow flowers. These flowers and the leaves of the plant contain several ingredients. One of the ingredients is hyperforin, which has antidepressant effects. Be careful when using it.

Sowing and planting of St. John’s wort

St. John's wort can be either pre-sown or sown directly in the garden. Pre-sowing can be done in March and April, under glass or on the windowsill. The plants can be planted out from March to July. You can sow directly in open ground from April to June. Keep a planting distance of 30 cm.

Position and soil

St. John's wort needs a sunny or semi-shaded spot in the garden and a light, well-drained soil. Optionally, sand can be incorporated into the soil to improve water drainage.

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How to care for your St. John’s wort plants

St. John's wort requires little care. The plant likes dry to slightly moist soil, so it only needs watering during dry periods. The plant also needs little fertilizer. If the plant has been in the same spot for several years, fertilization is sufficient as soon as the plant reappears in the spring. The plant self-seeds easily.

When and how to harvest St. John’s wort?

Harvest time is from July to October. The upper parts of the plant, with leaves, flower buds and flowers can be harvested. These can be used to make tea, but also to prepare St. John's oil, macerates, tinctures, etc. The herb can also be dried after which it can be used as a tea. Be careful when using, both internally and externally, as it can have side effects. And sunlight, because it can lead to skin irritation and burns.

How to preserve St. John’s wort

Fresh, St. John's wort can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. The herb can also be dried, for example by hanging it upside down in a dry, warm, airy place, or in a food dehydrator.

Is St. John’s wort healthy?

St John's wort has various medicinal properties. It is said to contribute to a better state of mind, increase energy, contribute to a good night's sleep, and be beneficial to the kidneys, airways and gall bladder.

The Dutch nutrition centre indicates that the use of St John's wort is not recommended for people taking medication, as it can affect the effects of some drugs. But even if you are not taking any medicines, it is advised to be careful when taking St John's wort. Complaints such as diarrhoea, dizziness and anxiety may occur. Pregnant women are not recommended to use the herb. In addition, it is unclear what dosage is safe. So, pay close attention when using it and contact your doctor if necessary.

St. John’s wort seeds in our collection

In our assortment we have St. John's wort seeds from the brand Horti Tops.

Tips to grow St. John’s wort

• Regularly remove faded flowers to prevent the plant from self-seeding.
• St John's wort can also be grown in planting pots or containers.
• St John's Wort is a beautiful plant for the (flower) garden and border. Given the health warnings, you can therefore sow St John's wort only for the beautiful flowers.

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