Chia

Salvia hispanica

Native to central and southern Mexico and a member of the mint family. Leaves are used fresh or dried for tea. They have beneficial medical properties with minerals, vitamins, soluble fiber, protein and essential fatty acids which all manage many of the life processes in our bodies. Producing blue flower spikes on top of 4’ plants, it will need to be started inside in the north, blooming about 4 months from seed. Here in Maine, its a challenge to produce seed due to temperature and daylight hours but we are trying, starting them a little earlier indoors next season, six weeks before last frost.

1500 seeds

PLANTING

Annual

Germination: 4-10 days

Seed Planting Depth: Sow on surface, lightly cover

Starting Indoors/Outdoors: Start indoors 6-8 weeks  before last frost.Provide 65-75 degrees soil temperatures.Transplant 12-18" apart. Sow outdoors in spring if your growing seasons long enough. 

Light  Needs:  Sun 

Soil Needs:Average to fertile, well drained soil

Uses: Culinary, medicinal