"Urtica dioica## HOW TO GROW STINGING NETTLE Direct sow thinly in Fall or very early Spring, likes moist ground or stream edges. Start indoor 10-12 weeks before last frost, plant out after frost. If does not germinate in 3-4 weeks, cold stratify for 2-4 weeks and bring back indoors. The growth of stinging nettle is an indicator of high soil fertility and soil disturbance. Nettle contain nitrogen, are a compost activator stimulating humus creation, can be used as a liquid fertilizer supplying magnesium, sulfur and iron, and attract beneficial insects. Flowers are dioecious, only one sex is to be found on a plant so both male and female plants must be grown to save seed. Plants may spread. Surface sow, press into soil, do not cover. Soil pH 5.6-7.8. Hardiness zones 3-10. Perennial.Days from maturity calculated from the date of seeding. Average 180,000 seeds per ounce. There are no Federal germination standards for commercially sold herb seeds. Usual seed life 6-8 years.Planting Depth surface requires lightSoil Temp. Germ. 60-70˚FDays to Germ. 10-21Plant Spacing 8-12”Row Spacing 3-4’Days To Maturity 90-110Part Shade, Moist Well Drained ##The plant’s leaves have hollow stinging hairs which act like hypodermic needles injecting histamines into the skin when touched. We find that rubbing soil on irritated skin stops the stinging. Used to treat arthritis. Flogging or urtification provokes inflammation used to treat rheumatism, and bring blood flow to injured areas, providing temporary pain relief. It is used in shampoo to control dandruff and make hair more glossy. Young leaves cooked like spinach are rich in iron, chlorophyll, vitamins A, C, iron, potassium, manganese and calcium. An infusion of the leaves in hot water makes an incredible iron and mineral rich tea. Also known as European Nettle. Tags: Harvest: Early, Color: Green, Specialty: Cooking Green, Certification: Organic.Native to Europe, Asian, northern Africa and North America.##Saltwater Seeds##Certified Organic by WA Dept. of Ag.##Seed grower since ##//cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0129/8922/files/Saltwater_Seeds.jpg?v=1639377886##We are focused on growing open-pollinated seeds adapted for the Maritime Northwest. We are inspired by the endless combinations of colors, textures, flavors, and shapes of the plants we work with.As a small, diversified business, we are committed to contributing to our small-scale agricultural economy by finding, selecting, and stewarding varieties that are productive, delicious, beautiful, and well adapted to our climate."
