How to Start Anise Hyssop From Seed
Anise hyssop is a hardy perennial that can be raised from seed with little difficulty once conditions are warm and bright. It can self-sow in suitable gardens, so choose its location thoughtfully.
Start indoors or direct sow?
Direct sowing works well, especially where plants can stay in place, but indoor starts provide earlier, more uniform plants. The seedlings transplant readily when handled before they become rootbound.
When to start Anise Hyssop seeds
Sow indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the average last spring frost, or direct sow after frost danger has passed. In mild regions, fall sowing can also allow natural winter chilling and spring emergence.
How to sow the seeds
Press seeds onto the surface of a sterile seed-starting mix and cover only lightly, since light aids germination. Use small cells or shallow pots, mist gently, and provide bright light from the start.
Germination
Seeds commonly germinate in about 7 to 21 days. Keep the mix evenly moist at roughly 65 to 75 F, but never waterlog it.
Seedling care
Give seedlings strong light and water from below or at the soil line when the mix begins to dry. Thin to one seedling per cell, maintain good airflow, and use clean mix and containers to help prevent damping off.
Transplanting & hardening off
Harden seedlings off for 7 to 10 days and transplant after the last frost into sun or light shade. Set plants at their original depth in well-drained soil and water them in until established.
Tips
Do not cover seeds heavily, as deep planting can reduce emergence. Deadhead spent blooms if you want fewer volunteer seedlings next season.
General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.