Moldavian Seeds,
Moldavian Dragonhead Balm

Moldavian Dragonhead Balm is ideally planted after the last frost in spring. It is grown as a warm-season annual anywhere, since it goes in after the last spring frost and is harvested before the first fall frost - figure on about 100 days from sowing. It flowers in the summer, and with proper care, you can enjoy its vibrant display throughout the growing season. Starting the seeds indoors a few weeks before the last frost date and then transplanting them outside can give the plants a head start.

• Seeds germinate in 7-14 days.
• Start indoors in spring, 8-10 weeks before last frost.
• Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
• Ideal germination temperature is 70 F.

• Prefers part shade to full sun.
• Provide moist, well-drained soil.
• Space plants 18-24 inches apart.
• Plant reaches 6-12 inches.

PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

• A relatively pest-free plant. Be aware that mint is a fairly agressive plant that spreads by runners.
• Prevent it from overtaking your garden by planting it in pots or in an herb garden where it can roam free.

Seeds are mature once the flower heads have fully dried and turned brown. To harvest them, cut the flower spikes and place them inside a paper bag. This allows the seeds to completely dry and drop; you may need to shake the bag gently to help loosen the seeds. Afterward, separate any chaff from the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.

Many people prefer propagating Dragonhead Balm plants through cuttings as it is generally easier than growing from seeds. Simply take a cutting from a healthy plant, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water until roots develop. Then, plant it in the soil.