Start Angelica Seeds

Angelica Flower

START ANGELICA SEEDS

Angelica root is the main ingredient in OHN, Oriental Herbal Nutrient, a tonic used in almost every formula in Korean Natural Farming (KNF). It strengthens and regulates immune systems for healthy plants, animals, and people. This is something you can grow. It takes two to three years to get the roots, so the sooner you start them, the better.

There are several species of Angelica. The one used in KNF is Angelica gigas. The species most commonly seen is A. archangelica. While A. gigas is preferred, use A. archangelica or other species if that is what you can get. The chemistry between species is similar.

STARTING ANGELICA SEEDS

Starting Angelica from seed can be a bit tricky because the seeds have a short viability period and require stratification (cold treatment) to germinate well.

Seed Viability & Storage

Angelica seeds lose viability quickly, often within a year. Always use fresh seeds for the best germination rates.

If storing, keep them in a cool, dry place, ideally in the refrigerator.

 

Germination & Sowing Tips for Angelica gigas

Stratify for 4–8 weeks (depending on species) in moist sand, vermiculite, or peatmoss in the fridge.

Sow indoors in early spring or direct sow in fall for natural stratification.

They are light-dependent germinators, so cover seeds lightly, no more than 3mm (1/8 inch) deep.

Keep soil moist but not soggy.

Expect germination in 2–6 weeks.

 

Stratification (Cold Treatment)

Seeds need cold stratification to break dormancy.

Angelica archangelica: Requires 4–6 weeks of cold stratification.

Angelica gigas: Often requires a longer stratification period (6–8 weeks) for optimal germination.

Stratification Methods

Refrigeration Method

Mix seeds with moist sand, vermiculite, or in a plastic bag and refrigerate 1–4°C (34–40°F) for 4–8 weeks.

Outdoor Sowing

In cold climates, sow seeds in fall so they naturally stratify over winter.

Sowing Indoors

After stratification, plant seeds 3mm (1/8 inch) deep in moist, well-draining soil.

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Maintain temperatures around 15–21°C (60–70°F) for germination.

Germination may take 2–6 weeks, so be patient.

 

Direct Sowing Outdoors

Best done in late summer or fall to allow natural stratification.

Sow seeds in a partially shaded area with rich, moist soil.

Germination

Angelica seeds require light to germinate. They are classified as light-dependent germinators, meaning they need exposure to some light to trigger germination.

Do not bury the seeds deeply. Instead, press them lightly onto the surface of the soil or cover them with a very thin layer of soil, no more than 3 mm (1/8 inch), because they need light to germinate.

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Use a humidity dome or plastic wrap to maintain moisture if starting indoors.

Place the seed tray or pots in bright, indirect light (a sunny windowsill or grow lights work well).

Germination Temperature

A. archangelica: Germinates well at 15–21°C (60–70°F).

A. gigas: Prefers slightly cooler conditions, around 10–18°C (50–65°F).

 

Transplanting

Once seedlings have at least two sets of true leaves, they can be carefully transplanted.

Angelica has a deep taproot, so transplanting should be done early to avoid disturbing the roots too much.

Lifecycle

Angelica is considered biennial—it produces leaves in the first year and flowers in the second before setting seed and dying. If you want continuous growth, reseed every year.

A. archangelica: Usually biennial but can sometimes act as a short-lived perennial.

A. gigas: Mostly monocarpic (dies after flowering) and typically blooms in the second or third year.

Preferred Growing Conditions

Likes moist, well-draining, rich soil.

It can grow quite large (4–6 feet tall), so space plants about 2 feet apart.

A. archangelica: Tolerates more moisture and cooler climates than A. gigas. Prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.

A. gigas: Prefers well-draining, slightly drier soil compared to A. archangelica, but still requires consistent moisture. It thrives in warmer summers and does better in part sun to full sun compared to the partial shade preference of A. archangelica.