Ashwagandha is a powerful herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for stress support, energy, and sleep. Its name means “vitality of the horse,” and it’s often called the “ginseng of Ayurveda” due to its wide range of wellness benefits. This upright plant grows over 2 feet tall, with small green-to-yellow flowers that develop into red berries by fall. The roots are harvested at the end of the season, usually when the berries ripen in October. They’re dried and used in powder or tincture form. (Note: only the roots are used—other parts of the plant are not edible.)
Skill Level:
Intermediate
Ashwagandha is easy to manage once established but benefits from a warm start indoors and well-drained soil.
Growing Info:
• Zones: Perennial in Zone 10, grown as an annual in cooler zones
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Dry, sandy, well-drained
• Height: 2–3 feet • Soak Seeds: 24 hours in warm water
• Planting Depth: ¼ inch
• Germination Temp: 70–85°F
• Germination Time: 1–2 weeks (can take longer)
• Transplant: Move outdoors in June after frost
How to Start Ashwagandha Seeds:
Soak seeds for 24 hours to improve germination
Sow ¼" deep in trays or small pots with seed-starting mix
Keep soil moist but not soggy
Cover with plastic to trap heat and humidity
Place in a warm spot with indirect light
Remove plastic after sprouting to prevent mold
Transplant outdoors when seedlings are strong and frost has passed
Tips: • Thin seedlings if crowded • Avoid rich soil—ashwagandha prefers tough conditions • Harvest roots in fall when berries ripen
