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The Damiana herb commonly grows in tropical climates, mainly in Mexico, South America, Central America and the Caribbean. It is a shrub that can easily be recognized because of its small and aromatic yellow flowers that bloom during early to late summer. The plant is very popular for its aphrodisiac effect and is also used in making herbal supplements. Because of this, more and more people take interest in growing Damiana herb. If you plan on growing the plant in northern regions, make sure that there will be an abundant supply of warmth and sun, perhaps in a green house. While the roots of Damiana can survive very cold climates, its leaves and branches are not frost-enduring.
When the growing Damiana herb reaches 3 -6 feet tall, it might be best to keep it outdoors except if you have a greenhouse or if you want to trim it down. A good start of growing this plant is by planting it in a pot, so it can easily be transferred to the herb garden later. The plant needs at least 8 hours of sun every day.
To start growing Damiana herb, remember that it must be sown in a typical potting soil. Lightly cover the seed and maintain the soil moisture until germination. The seeds usually take some time to sprout so keep waiting. If you have planted it during late winter months, keep them inside and wait until there’s no more frost. When the seedlings have already produced two sets of true leaves, you can transplant the herb into 3 -4 inch pots covered with light potting medium.
When the hazards of frost end, the seedlings can gradually be made to adapt the environment by placing them in a safe and shady location several hours per day until fully transferring them to rest under the sun. Continue growing the plants under the sun and keep repotting the plants once they grow bigger. To support its growth, you can put light fertilization in the soil to make it leafier. In nature, Damiana can survive even in harsh environments so there’s no need to fertilize it heavily. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer by following the mixing instructions for potted plants once a month. Fertilize the plant from April to August. Pinch the plant once a month by pruning the growing tips to encourage branching.
Growing Damiana herb can be difficult, particularly in winter months. During this season, bring the plant indoors. You can place it in unheated sunrooms or porches or perhaps in an unheated greenhouse, so long as it stays above freezing temperature. Don’t fertilize the plant during winter and provide warmth as much as possible. You can use growing lights to supplement plant growth, but only if you don’t have southern window exposure. Water only if the soil feels dried up.
The steps on how to grow Damiana are not complicated. You just have to follow important points such as proper fertilizing, repotting and pinching. People in northern areas who plan on growing Damiana herb might have a hard time searching for the seeds. When ordering online, make sure to get Turnera diffusa seeds, since there are several varieties of Turnera.
