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Organic Yarrow, Achillea millefolium (Native Yarrow) Native to the Northeast, Yarrow is known for its ornamental, medicinal, edible and insectary qualities. The long, feather-like leaves and white, chalice-shaped flowers attract many beneficial insects including ladybugs (who love to eat aphids), hoverflies (who love aphids as well as thrips) and predatory wasps. Yarrow is an excellent companion plant in any garden.
We love to tuck the tiny, freshly emerged spring leaves in salad. It's leaves and flowers are a classic addition to many bitters and liquors, as well.
Yarrow is our go-to herb for any small wound that is bleeding because it encourages blood to quickly clot when applied topically. When Petra lived in Downeast Maine on Mandala Farm, she cut herself one day in the kitchen. She ran outside to the grass where Yarrow so often grows. She plucked a leaf, chewed it for a few seconds and tucked it right on her bleeding finger, which stopped bleeding a few seconds later. Its antiseptic qualities help it heal quickly, as well.
Many are the reasons to have Yarrow close at hand.
Yarrow prefers well-drained soil in full sun but thrives in a great diversity of habitats. It's deep roots make it impressively drought tolerant and draw minerals up from the subsoil, bringing greater fertility to your garden.
75 days to flower
Achillea millefolium
Organic Achillea millefolium (Native Yarrow)
Transplant Only: Sow ~6 weeks before last frost, barely covering with soil (light is needed for germination) and bottom-water to avoid displaced seed. Transfer to larger pot with first true leaves. Harden off seedlings (reduce water & temp 3-7 days) & transplant after frost 1’ apart. Weed & water well; mulch to reduce weed & watering pressure.
Sowing Date: Indoors before last frost
Seed Depth: barely cover
Days to Germination: 10-14 days at 65-72°F
Days to Maturity: 85 days to flower
Plant spacing after thinning: 12 inches
Height: 28-30 inches
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Reasonably successful