Hyssop Cultivation

Choose a site to plant hyssop where there is full sun. Hyssop will tolerate partial shade as well. It grows in any soil that is well drained. Amend clay soil to prevent root rot. Achieve this by mixing equal parts sand, natural soil and compost and spreading about 1 to 2 inches over the area and digging it into the top layer of soil. This makes the soil airy and less compacted.

Sow seed about ½ inch deep in the soil two weeks before the last expected frost date in the region. Water and keep evenly moist but not soggy. Seedlings should pop up in two or three weeks and should be able to tolerate a light frost, but cover them to protect them from a heavy frost.

Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart to ensure good air circulation between plants and give them room to grow.

Plant cuttings of hyssop instead of seed after all danger of frost is over and space plants 12 inches apart. Water well until they're established in the garden.

Water during dry periods. Hyssop is very drought tolerant and prefers a drier soil.

Deadhead flowers when they are spent. This encourages a full bushy plant. After one year of growth, cut back almost to the ground in late spring and do this every year after.

Harvest leaves before blooms totally open to ensure the highest potential of volatile oils. Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried. Cut stems with shears, tie them together, hang them to dry, remove leaves from the stems and store them in airtight containers. Use them in salads fresh if desired.