When to Plant Lovage in Saginaw County, MI
Lovage is a large perennial herb with a celery-like flavor that can grow 4-6 feet tall. All parts are edible including the leaves, stems, seeds, and roots.
Saginaw County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 30 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 169 days.
At an elevation of 748 feet, Saginaw County receives approximately 39.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Lovage during the growing season.
Saginaw County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-7.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Lovage Planting Timeline — Saginaw County, MI
Lovage Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 7 | May 7 – May 21 |
| Harvest | July 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 17 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
70–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
169 days
Growing Tips for Saginaw County
Start seeds indoors or direct sow in spring. One plant is usually enough for a family. Harvest outer stems and leaves as needed. Divide clumps every 3-4 years.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Lovage in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lovage in Saginaw County, MI?
Saginaw County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 30. Plan your Lovage planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Saginaw County, MI?
Saginaw County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 30 and first fall frost is October 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Saginaw County gardeners in Zone 5b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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