Start indoors or direct sow?

Direct sowing is usually preferred because the plants grow quickly and have delicate roots. You can start a few plants indoors if needed, but move them gently and young.

When to start Summer Savory seeds

Direct sow after the average last spring frost, once the soil is workable and beginning to warm. For an earlier start, sow indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost.

How to sow the seeds

Sow about 1/8 inch deep in a fine, sterile seed-starting mix, or scatter thinly outdoors and barely cover. For indoor starts, use small cells and a bright location rather than large containers.

Germination

Expect germination in about 7 to 14 days. Soil near 65 to 70 F and consistently moist, not wet, soil encourages even sprouting.

Seedling care

Give seedlings full sun or strong supplemental light, and water lightly so the mix does not stay soggy. Thin direct-sown plants to about 6 to 10 inches apart, and provide airflow around indoor seedlings to prevent damping off.

Transplanting & hardening off

For direct-sown plants, transplanting is not needed. If you started indoors, harden plants off for about a week and transplant after frost, disturbing the roots as little as possible.

Tips

Make small repeat sowings every few weeks for a longer supply of tender leaves. Avoid rich, heavily fertilized soil, which can encourage weak, less flavorful growth.

General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.