How to Grow Valeriana

Prepare to grown Valeriana officinalis in spring once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Select a partially shaded growing site with well-draining to moderately moist soil. Avoid areas with standing water or dense vegetation.

Weed the growing site and amend the soil, if needed. Spread a 3-inch-thick layer of compost and bone meal or eggshells onto the soil to improve its nutrient content. Work the amendments into the soil to a 5-inch depth using a cultivating fork.

Even out the surface of the soil using a hoe until no especially high or low spots remain. Run the tines of a garden rake across the soil to create a series of shallow furrows. Make the furrows no more than 1/16 inch deep.

Sprinkle the Valeriana officinalis seeds onto the shallow furrows. Do not cover them with soil because light exposure aids germination. Do not be overly concerned with how evenly the seed is spread because the seedlings can be thinned out after germination.

Run a lawn sprinkler near the edge of the bed for 10 to 15 minutes to settle the seeds into the soil. Water the Valeriana officinalis seeds whenever the surface of the soil dries out. Avoid overwatering during germination.

Watch for germination one to two weeks after sowing. Thin out the seedlings to one every 12 inches once they produce a mature pair of leaves. Discard the seedlings or transplant them into another area of the garden.

Water the Valeriana officinalis plants once a week to a depth of 1.5 to 2 inches using a garden hose. Provide additional supplemental water during times of high heat or drought, particularly if the plants begin to wilt.

Watch for signs of disease such as wilting, stunted flowers or powdery white residue on the foliage and stems. Pull up and discard any affected plants since they are difficult to treat.