Organic Stinging Nettle - Ferme de Sainte Marthe seeds

The Stinging Nettle is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 metres (3 to 5 feet). It is cultivated for its foliage, which loses its stinging power when cooked. It can be consumed in soups, quiches, cakes, tapenades, and more. It is very rich in protein and iron (more than red meat) and has been known for its medicinal properties since ancient times. It is also an excellent natural fertiliser for the garden, in the form of the famous Nettle Manure. Sow from May to July, first harvest the following year.

Feared by children, the Stinging Nettle or Great Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a perennial plant in the Urticaceae family. It has been known about since ancient times for its numerous virtues and its anti-anemic, stimulating, detoxifying effects, and more. It is rich in proteins, iron, and vitamins A and C.

It has long, upright stems that can reach 2 metres (7 feet) in height. Its leaves are green, heart-shaped, and heavily toothed. It is the stems that are covered in rigid and stinging hairs. It is called "dioecious" because there are male and female plants.

The Stinging Nettle grows throughout across many parts of Europe, on embankments, forest edges, fallow land, and more. It is a nitrophilous plant, meaning it thrives in nitrogen-rich environments, even those saturated with nitrogen. Cultivate it at home for easy access to it as a cooking ingredient or phytostimulant, without the risk of pollution or having to search far and wide for it. Nettle manure provides a lot of nitrogen and is very effective in stimulating the growth of young plants. It is a good complement to Comfrey manure, which stimulates flowering and fruiting while improving leaf resistance.

In the garden, plant it in a sunny spot with rich, moist, and well-drained soil. Take the time to consider its location because once established, the nettle is difficult to remove!

Harvest and storage: Nettle is harvested just before flowering or shortly after. It can be used fresh, but you can also dry the leaves in a dry and airy place and store them in a paper bag or jar.

Gardener's tip: We won't be telling you anything new by saying that nettle stings. If, unfortunately, you experience the burning sensation from contact, look around for plantain leaves, crush them, and rub the burn for quick relief.