Spring planting doesn’t start when the air feels warm, It...Read More
Chia is an ancient annual herb known for its tall, spiky clusters of delicate purple or white flowers and its quick-growing, lush green foliage. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soils, this low-maintenance plant is drought-tolerant and can grow up to 3 feet tall. Chia is famously used in Chia Pets, where its fast-germinating seeds sprout into a fun, green “fur” that covers the ceramic figures. In the garden, it attracts bees and other beneficial pollinators, while adding height and texture to borders or herb gardens.
NAME: Chia (Salvia hispanica)
VARIETY: Chia
DAYS TO MATURITY: 110 – 120 days
POLLINATION: Open Pollinated
TYPE: Annual
HARDINESS ZONE: Zones 8 – 12
SUNLIGHT: Full Sun
SOIL: Sandy, well-draining soil with a pH 6.5 – 8.5
PLANT HEIGHT: 3 – 4 feet
SPACING: 12 – 14 inches apart
TEMP: 55 – 90ºF
These seeds do not required stratification.
To learn more about Stratification, click here!
Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before your last expected frost date.
Scatter seeds on the surface of a seed-starting mix, pressing them down gently as they need light to germinate.
Keep soil temperatures between 70-75°F. Germination typically occurs in 7-14 days.
Thin seedlings to one per cell once they have sprouted, and gradually expose them to outdoor conditions for a week before transplanting.
When transplanting, space plants 12-18 inches apart in full sun, in well-draining soil.
Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil has warmed up.
Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Scatter seeds on the soil surface, pressing them lightly, but do not cover them with soil.
Water gently and keep the soil moist until germination, which generally occurs within 1-2 weeks.
Once established, thin plants to 12-18 inches apart.
Light: Chia grows best in full sun and tolerates high temperatures well.
Soil: Chia plants thrive in various soil types, including sandy or clay soils, as long as the soil drains well. They are drought-tolerant once mature.
Water: Water seedlings regularly until they are established. After that, Chia is low-maintenance and only needs occasional watering during extended dry periods.
Fertilization: Not required unless the soil is very poor. If desired, add a small amount of compost when planting.
Pruning: Regular pruning isn’t necessary, but deadheading can help improve plant appearance.
Seed Harvesting: Chia seeds are ready for harvest in late summer to early fall, approximately four months after planting.
Chia plants are grown mainly for their nutrient-rich seeds, but they also attract pollinators and make an attractive addition to sunny garden spots. Enjoy your chia growing season!
