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When to Plant Valerian in Ohio

Valerian is a tall perennial herb with fragrant white or pink flower clusters, valued for its root which is used as a natural sleep aid. It attracts pollinators and earthworms.

Ohio spans USDA hardiness zones 5b, 6a, 6b (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

Find Your County

Click your county for exact Valerian planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Valerian Planting Calendar for Ohio

Zone 5b ~178 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 18 · First frost: October 13 · 178 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 25 Apr 25 – May 9
Harvest August 29 Aug 29 – Oct 10
Zone 6a ~193 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 10 · First frost: October 20 · 193 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 17 Apr 17 – May 1
Harvest August 21 Aug 21 – Oct 30
Zone 6b ~205 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 3 · First frost: October 25 · 205 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 10 Apr 10 – Apr 24
Harvest August 14 Aug 14 – Oct 23

Growing Tips for Ohio

Start seeds indoors and transplant after last frost. Harvest roots in fall of the second year. Deadhead flowers unless you want self-seeding. Cats are attracted to valerian root.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Valerian in Ohio?

Planting dates for Valerian in Ohio depend on your USDA zone. Ohio spans zones 5b, 6a, 6b. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Ohio for planting?

Ohio contains USDA hardiness zones 5b, 6a, 6b. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: April 2026.