Chia (Salvia hispanica)
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❤️ Why you'll love it
A fascinating warm-climate relative of garden sage, chia (Salvia hispanica) is prized for its tiny, nutrient-rich seeds, traditionally valued as a food crop. Its attractive foliage and delicate flowers make it an interesting addition to a sunny garden or greenhouse. Chia thrives in warmth and sunshine, and with a sheltered position and a little care, you can enjoy growing this unusual edible plant at home. In the UK, a greenhouse or polytunnel can help provide the long, warm growing season it needs to flower and develop seeds.
🌿 Details
How to grow chia in the UK
Position & Light:
Grow chia (Salvia hispanica) in a warm, sunny, sheltered position with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Chia thrives in warm conditions and is sensitive to frost, so start seeds indoors in spring and move plants outdoors once all risk of frost has passed. A greenhouse or polytunnel can help extend the growing season and improve the chances of producing mature seeds in the UK.
Soil & Watering:
Use light, fertile, well-drained soil or compost. Chia prefers soil that retains some moisture but does not become waterlogged. Water regularly while seedlings establish, then allow the surface of the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Established plants are relatively drought-tolerant, so avoid overwatering.
Feeding:
Chia grows well in moderately fertile soil. Incorporate some well-rotted compost before planting if the soil is poor. Avoid excessive feeding, particularly with nitrogen-rich fertilisers, as this can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers and seed production.
Pruning & Maintenance:
Chia generally requires little maintenance. Pinching out the growing tips when plants are young can encourage bushier growth, although this is optional. Protect plants from strong winds, as mature stems can become tall and top-heavy. Allow the flower heads to develop fully and dry on the plant before harvesting the seeds, choosing a dry spell where possible.
Common Problems:
- Yellowing leaves: This may indicate overwatering, poor drainage or a nutrient deficiency.
- Leggy growth: Insufficient sunlight can cause weak, stretched stems. Provide a bright, sunny position.
- Failure to produce mature seeds: Chia needs a long, warm growing season. In cooler UK regions, growing under cover may improve the chances of a seed harvest.
- Root rot: Waterlogged soil can damage roots. Use well-drained compost and avoid excessive watering.
- Pests: Slugs and snails may damage young seedlings. Check plants regularly and protect vulnerable growth where necessary.
Supplied bare root, carefully packed with a moisture source to ensure freshness.
Plant height: approximately 10cm.
Please remember that most plants (except Evergreens) are dormant in Autumn/Winter so your order may have no leaves until Spring.
🪴 What Does Bare Root Mean?
Our plants have their full root systems but are carefully removed from the pot and soil before delivery.
The roots are wrapped in moist material and eco-friendly packaging to keep them fresh during transit.
It's less messy, reduces waste, and allows the plant to settle into your garden more easily once planted.
🌱 Sustainably Grown in Britain
Plants are sustainably grown and harvested at our nursery in the South West UK, without the use of pesticides or herbicides.
Packaged using biodegradable materials for an eco-conscious delivery.
📜 Certified & Compliant
We are APHA-authorized for Plant Passports: your assurance that our plants are healthy, pest-free, and meet UK plant health regulations.
🚚 Combined Postage & Fast Dispatch
No extra delivery charge when you buy multiple plants from us! Simply add all the plants you love to your basket and pay one flat delivery fee at checkout.
Shipped via UPS Express, so they are in transit for less than 24 hours: includes care cards tailored to each plant you order.
Orders are sent out at the beginning of each week to reduce time in transit,
see Delivery information.
📌 Planting Advice
Upon arrival, plant immediately in a cool, shaded spot (indoors or outdoors) and water thoroughly.
Once new growth appears, move to the final growing location.
💚 Our Guarantee
If your plant doesn't survive delivery*, just send us a photo and we'll send a replacement (or issue a refund).
No hassle, no worries.
* provided you accept the first delivery attempt