Grow From Seed · 2026

How to grow St. John's Wort from seed

The bright yellow mood herb is hardy and vigorous from seed — with one cold-treatment trick. Here's how to start it.

St. John's Wort seedlings in small pots
Step 1

Cold-stratify

Chill the seed in the fridge 4 weeks first — it germinates far better after a cold spell, or sow in fall.

Step 2

Surface-sow

Press the fine seed onto the surface; it needs light. Keep warm and patient — germination is slow.

Step 3

Full sun

Give it the sunniest spot and average, well-drained soil. It's vigorous once going — give it room.

Step 4

Second-year flowers

Usually blooms in year two, then returns and self-sows. Harvest flowers at peak bloom.

Beginner tip: potency starts with the seed. Generic packets are bred for looks; medicinal growing wants non-GMO seed bred for the plant's real compounds.

Grown from seed, on video

The easiest way to start

St. John's Wort is one of ten medicinal herbs worth growing — Nicole Apelian's Medicinal Garden Kit gives you all ten as non-GMO seeds with her full grow-and-remedy guide.

St. John's Wort benefits & uses →

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