Valerian Dilyanka

Valerian Dilyanka — variety description

Valerian Dilyanka (Valeriana officinalis) is a perennial herb of the Valerianaceae family (Caprifoliaceae). Valerian is grown for its root, which, dried and ground, is used in many pharmaceutical products.

It is also known as cat's herb or all-heal.

It has a calming effect and balances the action of the nervous system.

The plant reaches a height of 150 cm; the flowers are small, pale pink or whitish.

Valerian root is a classic calming herb, and the plant is also a fragrant ornamental.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 80%
• Seeds per packet: 238–322 pcs (0.2 g)
• Seed origin: Poland
• Sowing: May – September; seedlings or direct
• Flowering: June – October
• Harvest: May – July
• Position: sun to partial shade

When to sow Valerian Dilyanka

Valerian Dilyanka seeds are sown in May – September. The plants flower from June to October. The crop is harvested from May to July. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Valerian Dilyanka

• Sowing method: seedlings or direct
• Depth: on the surface
• Spacing: 30–40 cm
• Germination: 14–21 days at 15–20 °C
• Position: sun to partial shade

Ripe seeds germinate after 5-7 days, and the first seedlings appear on day 7-10 with summer sowing. The true leaves of the plant appear about a week after that, and their development continues right up to autumn. If the temperature falls below 5°C, it affects the plant badly; the leaves begin to wither and die. For this reason valerian is sown in summer, at the end of May or the beginning of June. The following year growth begins in March with the formation and growth of the basal leaves, which form a rosette, and with the growth of the underground roots, which are ready for harvesting in autumn (September–October). The crop is grown for 2 to 4 years in the same place, after which it is recommended to move it.

The seeds quickly lose viability and germinate in light. Likes moist soil.

Harvest and use

The root is dug up in autumn of the second year.

Frequently asked questions

When should Valerian Dilyanka be sown?

The recommended sowing months are May – September. Sowing method: seedlings or direct.

How many seeds are in the packet?

The packet contains 238–322 seeds, pack size 0.2 g.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 80%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.