How to Grow Lovage in New Zealand
Large perennial herb with a strong celery-like flavour, a European kitchen-garden staple where a single plant is plenty. It does best in cooler districts and through the cooler months in the warm north, as it can struggle in humid northern summers. Cut leaves young and keep it well watered.
When to plant lovage in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Auckland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Waikato & BoP | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Wellington | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Canterbury | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Otago & Southland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Central Otago | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
Best lovage varieties for NZ
- Common Lovage — Tall perennial with an intense celery flavour, one plant feeds a household. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds)
How to grow lovage
- Space plants about 60cm apart.
- Sow seed around 0.5cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 90 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 14 days.
Companion planting
Grow lovage near: Beans, Potato.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Leaf miner. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant lovage in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, February, March, April, August, September, October. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy lovage seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds.