How to cultivate Chia (Salba)?
Answer Dear Daniel: Chias native range extends through the coastal and inner coast ranges of California from Mendocino County in the north to Baja in the south. Chia grows throughout southern California and into adjacent areas of Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and Northwestern Mexico. Chia was once more common in many of its native areas, but its populations have declined due to overgrazing, urban development, and fire suppression. However, I would encourage experimenting with small scale greenhouse cultivation in Maine. Annual wild flowers, such as chia, are generally planted directly into a prepared bed or border area. Chia requires full sun, good drainage and only enough water to become established. Do not plant chia near lawns and other plants that require frequent watering. Seeds may benefit from pretreatment, but this treatment may vary depending on the origin of the seeds (Emery 1998). Ask your seed supplier as to their recommendations. Broadcast the chia seeds in autumn by sprinkling t
