
Chia Seeds (Salvia hispanica) – 200+ Non-GMO Heirloom Seeds for Planting, Nutrient-Dense Superfood & Pollinator-Friendly Blooms, by Isla’s Garden Seeds, Gift Idea for Gardeners
Chia (Salvia hispanica) is a warm-season annual mint relative grown for its tiny, oil-rich seeds and attractive blue-purple flower spikes. The plants’ nectar-rich blooms draw bees and butterflies, while the seeds are prized for their omega-3s, fiber, and plant-based protein.
Vigorous and sun-loving, Chia reaches 3–4 feet with branching stems and aromatic foliage. It thrives in heat and well-draining soil, blooming as days shorten toward late summer and fall. In long, frost-free seasons it sets abundant seed; in cooler areas it still shines as a pollinator plant.
Use harvested seed in smoothies, puddings, baked goods, and homemade energy bars. Young leaves can be used fresh for herbal teas. Drought-tolerant once established, Chia is a low-maintenance addition to edible and ornamental beds alike.
With its dual value—nutritious seed and beautiful flowers—Chia brings productivity and ecological benefits to warm-season gardens and sunny borders.
Type: Annual (warm-season)
Sun: Full
Planting Depth: 1/4”
Spacing: 12–18”
Water: Low to moderate (keep evenly moist until established)
Days to Maturity/Bloom: 100–120 days
Height: 3–4’
Zones: 3–10
Approx seeds per order 200
Direct sow after all danger of frost when soil temperatures are consistently warm (65–70°F+). Choose a sunny, well-draining site; Chia prefers lean soils and tolerates heat and drought once established.
Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing 12–18 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches. Keep soil lightly moist for germination (7–14 days). In short-season climates, start indoors 4–6 weeks early and transplant carefully to avoid root disturbance.
For seed harvest, allow flower spikes to dry on the plant, then cut and finish drying in a warm, airy place before threshing. In cooler regions, protect from early frost to extend bloom and seed set.
Type: Annual (warm-season)
Sun: Full
Planting Depth: 1/4”
Spacing: 12–18”
Water: Low to moderate (keep evenly moist until established)
Days to Maturity/Bloom: 100–120 days
Height: 3–4’
Zones: 3–10
Chia (Salvia hispanica) grows best in USDA Zones 3–10, thriving in full sun with well-draining soil and warm temperatures.
Type: Annual (warm-season)
Sun: Full
Planting Depth: 1/4”
Spacing: 12–18”
Water: Low to moderate (keep evenly moist until established)
Days to Maturity/Bloom: 100–120 days
Height: 3–4’
Zones: 3–10

