Spring planting doesn’t start when the air feels warm, It...Read More
Green Purslane is an interesting case of a misunderstood plant turned nutritious and versatile culinary ingredient. This plant was commonly thought of to be a weed but has grown in popularity due to its deliciously unique flavor and quick abundant growth. Green Purslane features glossy green leaves with a tangy, lemony flavor, perfect for salads and cooking. It boasts abundant vitamins, minerals, and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, all while being low in calories and high in fiber. With a spreading growth habit and small yellow flowers, Green Purslane is a valued addition to gardens and culinary traditions, challenging its weed status with its home-kitchen contributions.
NAME: Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)
VARIETY: Green
DAYS TO MATURITY: 45 – 55 days
POLLINATION: Open Pollinated
TYPE: Annual
STATIFICATION: Not required
HARDINESS ZONE: Zones 4 – 10
SUNLIGHT: Full – Partial Sun
SOIL: Well-draining, average soils with a pH 5.8 – 7.0
SPACING: 12 – 14 inches
PLANT HEIGHT: 3 – 6 inches
TEMP: 50 – 70ºF
These seeds do not required stratification.
To learn more about Stratification, click here!
It is not recommended to start Purslane indoors as they are difficult to transplant and have delicate roots.
If you still choose to start indoors, sow seeds about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area in trays or pots filled with well-draining potting mix.
Sow seeds thinly and cover lightly with soil.
Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C).
Seeds should germinate within 7-14 days.
Once seedlings have developed true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors
Sow seeds directly into your prepared garden beds in early spring when the soil has warmed to 60ºF and all danger of frost has passed.
Scatter seeds in a row on the top of the soil and lightly press into the soil, but do not cover as the seeds need some light to germinate.
The seeds are very small so do not over-sow.
Keep the soil consistently moist during germination which occurs in 7-12 days.
When seedlings emerge, thin them so they are spaced 3 inches apart.
Once seedlings grow to be 1 to 2 inches tall or wide, thin them once more so they are spaced 6 inches apart.
Purslane prefers partial shade to full sun with soil that has average fertility with a pH of 6.0 – 7.0.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, since Purslane prefers drier soil.
Purslane is known for its ability to self-seed, so if you allow some plants to go to seed and drop their seeds, you may find new purslane plants growing in the same area in subsequent seasons
Harvest purslane when it is tender and young, which normally is within the 6 to 8 week period after sowing.
Harvest by simply picking the individual stems that you wish to use.
