How to grow Lovage in the UK
Levisticum officinale
Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a herb that grows well in UK gardens. Old-fashioned herb with intense celery flavour. Perennial — comes back bigger each year. This guide covers when and how to sow Lovage, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Lovage
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Plant | May Harvest | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Light, free-draining soil; many herbs resent winter wet
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade
- Sowing depth
- Surface to 1 cm
- Spacing
- 20–30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow spring or divide; a big celery-flavoured perennial (to 2 m)
- Growing
- Rich, moist soil; dies back in winter
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut leaves young; cut back to keep tender growth coming
- Watch for
- Leaf miner, aphids
Companion planting for Lovage
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Add Lovage to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Lovage FAQs
How much sun does Lovage need?
Lovage prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When should I plant Lovage in the UK?
In the UK, plant Lovage in April. Planting in this window gives the roots time to establish before the plant is asked to grow away.
When is Lovage ready to harvest?
Lovage is typically ready to harvest in May, June, July, August, September in the UK.
Is Lovage easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Old-fashioned herb with intense celery flavour. Perennial — comes back bigger each year.