Ruta graveolens, commonly known as rue, is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is known for its strong, pungent fragrance and has a long history of use in medicine and magic. The leaves are gray-green and finely divided, and the plant produces blue or yellow flowers.
To grow rue, you will need:
- Well-drained soil
- Full sun to partial shade
- Ruta graveolens seeds
Growing Instructions:
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Sow the seeds in well-drained soil in the spring, about 1/4 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart.
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Space the rows about 12-18 inches apart.
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Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
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Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
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Thin the seedlings to about 4 inches apart when they are about 2 inches tall.
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Harvest the leaves as needed, but avoid harvesting too many at once to prevent the plant from becoming stunted.
Chart:
Week | Task |
---|---|
1-4 | Sow the seeds in well-drained soil in the spring, about 1/4 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. |
4-8 | Space the rows about 12-18 inches apart. |
8-12 | Keep the soil consistently moist. |
12-16 | Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. |
16+ | Thin the seedlings to about 4 inches apart when they are about 2 inches tall, and harvest the leaves as needed. |