How to Germinate Yarrow Seeds

Germinating yarrow (Achillea millefolium) seeds can be a rewarding process as yarrow is a hardy and attractive perennial that attracts beneficial insects and is often used in naturalized or wildflower gardens. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you germinate yarrow seeds:

Materials You Will Need:

• Yarrow seeds
• Seed starting mix
• Seed trays or small pots
• Plastic wrap or a clear plastic dome
• Spray bottle filled with water
• Labels and a marker

Steps to Germinate Yarrow Seeds:

1. Timing:
   • Ideally, start yarrow seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
2. Seed Tray Preparation:
   • Fill seed trays or small pots with a quality seed starting mix. Moisten the mix with water until it is evenly damp but not waterlogged.
3. Sowing the Seeds:
   • Distribute yarrow seeds evenly on the surface of the moistened soil. Yarrow seeds are very tiny, so take care not to sow them too densely.
   • Lightly press the seeds into the soil surface. Yarrow seeds require light to germinate, so do not cover them with soil.
4. Humidity and Temperature:
   • Cover the seedling trays with plastic wrap or a clear plastic dome to maintain humidity.
   • Place the trays in a warm location with temperatures around 65-75°F (18-24°C). A heat mat can be helpful to maintain consistent warmth.
5. Light:
   • Place the seed trays in a location where they will receive indirect sunlight or use grow lights if natural light is insufficient. Yarrow seeds need light to germinate, so make sure they are not in a dark place.
6. Watering:
   • Keep the soil consistently moist by using a spray bottle to mist the surface of the soil. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to damping-off disease.
7. Germination:
   • Yarrow seeds typically take 10-14 days to germinate. During this period, monitor the soil moisture and ensure that the seeds are exposed to light.
8. Transplanting Seedlings:
   • Once the seedlings have grown their first set of true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
   • If transplanting outdoors, be sure to harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week or two.
9. Planting Outdoors:
   • Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Yarrow is tolerant of poor soil conditions but thrives in well-drained soil.
   • Space plants about 12-24 inches apart to allow for growth and airflow.

Aftercare:

• Watering: Once established, yarrow is quite drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
• Fertilizing: Yarrow generally does not require fertilization; too much fertilizer can lead to leggy growth.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and control self-seeding. In fall, you can cut the plants back to maintain a tidy appearance.

By following these steps, you can successfully germinate yarrow seeds and enjoy their beautiful, feathery foliage and clusters of flowers.