Description
Baikal Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) – Planting & Care Guide
- Habit/Hardiness: Perennial, USDA zones 4–8; 12–24 in (30–60 cm) tall; blooms late spring–summer.
- Light: Full sun (best flowering); light shade tolerated in hot climates.
Soil
- Type: Well-drained sandy/loam; dislikes “wet feet.”
- pH: 6.0–7.5.
- Prep: Mix in 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) compost; for heavy soil add sand/perlite (20–30%) or plant on a mound/raised bed.
- Mulch: Light, kept off the crown.
Planting
- Timing: Spring after last frost or early fall.
- Spacing: 12–18 in (30–45 cm).
- Depth: Set crown at soil level; firm and water in. Taproot—minimize disturbance.
From seed
- Stratify: Cold‑moist chill 2–4 weeks.
- Sow: Indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or direct‑sow after frost. Barely cover (1/16–1/8 in / 1–3 mm); 65–70°F (18–21°C).
- Germination: 14–28 days. Transplant carefully at 2–3 true leaves.
Water
- Keep evenly moist to establish (4–6 weeks); then moderate, allowing top inch to dry. Drought tolerant once established.
Feeding
- Light feeder. Compost at planting; avoid high nitrogen.
Care
- Pinch young tips to encourage bushiness (optional).
- Cut back spent stems in late fall or early spring.
- Propagation: Best by seed or softwood cuttings; division not recommended (taproot).
Containers
- Use a deep pot with excellent drainage; gritty mix (60–70% potting soil + 30–40% perlite/pumice). Full sun.
Pests/Diseases
- Generally trouble‑free. Watch for root rot in poorly drained soil; occasional aphids—rinse off.
Harvest
- Roots for medicinal use typically in fall of year 3–4. Uproot a portion and replant crowns to maintain the stand.
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