IMPORTANT: These seed are from a July 2023 harvest. They are best for planting in Spring of 2024, a few weeks before the last frost. Cold stratification (indoors or outside) is strongly advised for good germination. The refrigerator works well for stratification. Also, seeds can be planted in late fall to allow for germination to take place the following spring or summer. My plants for 2024 are fully grown now (June) and setting seeds for a July harvest.
The seeds that I did not harvest, which fell to the ground, are coming up prolifically right now. (March 2024, USDA zone 7) They were cold stratified over winter on the ground. I am harvesting it fresh to cook and eat as a spinach-like herb or brew as tea. For tea, I add a little mint or lemon balm for flavor. Nettle leaf can be mixed in soups or any dish that calls for spinach. Just don't eat it raw, because it will sting.
Check this link for more information:
Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica), 300+++ Seeds, Fresh Harvest, July 2023. Organic, Non-GMO. Grown in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.
Stinging Nettle is versatile herb prized for its nutritional value, as well as its use in culinary and medicinal applications. Its leaves have a distinctive, slightly sweet flavor similar to spinach, making them a popular ingredient in soups, stews, teas, and more. Stinging Nettle is also highly valued for its medicinal properties. The leaves and roots are often used in traditional medicine.
Stinging nettle is easy to plant by sowing the seeds indoors a few weeks before the last frost—or simply direct-sow the seeds in the garden. It's very easy to grow and has very few disease and pest problems. The seeds are very tiny. Scatter them directly in the garden. Choose a spot that has rich moist soil a little away from other herbs. Lightly cover them with ¼ inch (1 cm.) of soil. Keep the growing stinging nettle seeds moist. Germination should occur by about 14 days.
Cultivated nettles that are sown in autumn outside in a cold climate, will germinate the following spring. They'll actually grow just about anywhere, they self-seed readily and prolifically, but they prefer a moist soil and full sun or dappled shade. Stinging nettle is native to areas with temperate climates, flourishing in temperatures between 68 to 95 °F.
****Please Note:**** My Stinging Nettle is growing in USDA Zone 7, and currently (July) has grown to 5' and is setting seed. Stinging Nettle is a seasonal plant and should be broadcast in the fall for spring growth or Cold Stratified in winter for spring planting. DO NOT expect good results if planted out of season!
****For best germination, expose seeds to cool, moist conditions (cold stratification) for several weeks before sowing in spring. ****
Name: Stinging Nettle
Scientific Name: Urtica dioica
Hardiness zone: 3 through 10
Plant height: 1-5 feet
Light requirements: full sun to part shade
Soil & water preferences: Grows well in well-drained soil.
Scarification: None required but may improve germination
Germination: Surface sow and keep moist
The seeds will be shipped in an envelope via USPS First Class Mail.
NOTE TO BUYER: First Class mail does NOT include tracking. If I put tracking on the shipment, it's an extra $4. I try to get my product to my customers by the least expensive method possible. If you don't receive your shipment within typical 1st Class time, PLEASE let me know instead of filing with eBay! Without tracking ($4), I can't prove to eBay where the package is located. My only other option is to raise the price by $4, which I prefer not to do. Your cost will be more than doubled!
I TAKE A PHOTO OF YOUR ENVELOPE & SEED PACKET BEFORE I PUT IN THE MAIL. If you want me to send you the photo, please notify me & I will send it to you.