Valerian

Valerian (Valerian) is a hardy perennial medicinal herb prized for its fragrant flowers and powerful roots. Best known for traditional use in calming teas, tinctures, and sleep-support remedies, valerian has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and overall wellness. Its roots carry the strongest medicinal properties, while the flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects to the garden. Easy to grow and cold-hardy, valerian is a must-have for medicinal gardens and homesteads.

🌱 What You’re Getting

Your valerian will arrive as a live bare root plant or rooted division, ready to establish quickly in your garden. Bare root plants ship well and often establish faster than potted plants.

📦 When It Arrives (First Steps)

• Open immediately and inspect the roots
• If roots seem dry, soak in water for 1–2 hours before planting
• Plant as soon as possible for best success
• If delayed, keep cool and slightly moist
• Do not allow roots to dry out

🌿 How to Plant

• Plant in full sun to partial shade
• Prefers rich, moist, well-draining soil
• Space plants 18–24 inches apart
• Plant crown at soil level and water thoroughly

Valerian can grow tall, often reaching 3–5 feet when mature.

🌞 How to Grow & Care

• Keep soil consistently moist while establishing
• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Feed with compost or organic fertilizer for vigorous growth
• Remove spent flowers if you want to focus energy into root production
• Allow flowers to bloom if you want pollinators and seed production

Valerian may self-seed in ideal conditions.

✂️ Harvesting

• Roots are typically harvested in the second year for maximum size and potency
• Dig carefully in fall after top growth dies back
• Wash and dry roots thoroughly before use
• Flowers can also be harvested for decorative or light herbal uses

❤️ How to Love This Plant

Valerian loves moisture, rich soil, and a little room to spread. Once established, it is very low maintenance and returns year after year.

🌿 Why Every Homestead Should Have It

• Traditional calming and sleep-support herb
• Pollinator-friendly with beautiful blooms
• Perennial and cold hardy
• Excellent for teas, tinctures, and herbal preparations
• Easy to grow and long-lasting

Valerian is beauty, medicine, and function all in one plant.