Information About Yarrow Plant Seeds

Germination Climates

• Yarrow seeds adapt readily to many different kinds of climates. They germinate and grow in cold, temperate and mild weather, congregating in moist, rich soils. Yarrow isn't picky about sunlight; it can grow in full sun or partial shade, though sun-fed yarrow produces more flowers. Once sprouted, yarrow blooms for the entire summer, starting in early May and going to seed near the end of September.

Seed-Flat Preparation

• Though you may have some success if you simply scatter yarrow seeds over your yard, plants for herbal use should be cultivated for quality control. Yarrow seeds have no exotic requirements. To prepare a seed flat for them, simply fill each well with rich potting soil. Moisten each well with about 2 tbsp. of room-temperature water and allow the excess water to drain out of the bottom of the flat.

Planting

• Gently press a yarrow seed into each seed flat. Don't press them down into the soil; the seeds should be embedded, but not covered. Place the flat in a sunny, warm window. Yarrow sprouts in about a week or so. Keep the soil moist but never soggy or dripping wet. When your yarrow sprouts grow to about 6 inches tall, transplant them into light-colored soil. Space them about 3 inches apart from each other and other plants and structures. Once established in the ground, yarrow will reseed itself. The only maintenance it should need is occasional thinning.

Medicinal Uses

• When you thin your yarrow, try drying the salvaged stalks instead of composting them. According to Alchemy Works, yarrow teas and washes can relieve colds and fever and are antiseptic when applied to shallow flesh wounds, rashes and minor skin irritations. Just add 1 tsp. of the dried herb to 8 ounces of boiling water and let it steep for about five minutes.

  Pregnant women should never use yarrow. As with all herbal medicines, consult your doctor before taking it. It should never be used as treatment for a serious medical condition.