Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is considered a weed in many areas. Also called pigweed, this succulent plant naturalizes well in many climates, which makes it easy to grow. Purslane is a small, low growing plant that tolerates many elevations and climatic conditions. It’s tasty and nutritious—its high concentration of vitamin C and omega 3 fatty acids make it a delicacy in France, where it is grown commercially as a lemony-flavored addition to salads and other dishes.
Get your seeds ready to plant about six weeks before you plan to plant. Place seeds in a bit of potting soil in a plastic bag and then leave the mixture in your refrigerator for about six weeks.
Fill a nursery pot or flat with potting soil and then scatter the seeds on top but bury them lightly with no more than ¼ inch of soil—they need light to germinate, so make sure they get plenty of sun or artificial light. Also keep them warm—they require temperatures of 60 to 70 degrees F. Expect germination within 5 to 10 days, or as long as two to three weeks.
Prepare your garden area by digging in some compost and any other organic materials you have, such as dried leaves and peat moss.
Plant your young plants in late spring: leave about 1 foot between plants because they will vine a little and spread quickly.
Water young plants daily until they are established, about two to three weeks after you plant them. After that, purslane plants require very little care aside from keeping them under control because they will drop their seeds and spread on their own if they favor your garden’s environment.