This is perfect timing - I was just looking at what seeds I have and what I need, and when to sow them. I haven't grown for a few years now, and the last year I tried was a bit of a flop, so I'm excited to try this. Aside from Motherwort, what other seeds do you think might work with this method, bearing in mind I'm in the UK, and the temp is still very low?
Fantastic! I’m so glad this was timely for you Debs. I’d say in general the types of herbs which grow best this way in the UK are ones which are from a cooler climate and tend to self seed around. Many members of the mint family such as lemon balm, skullcap, hyssop etc would be included in that - although I’ve found mint itself is best propagated by digging up its runners (where it spreads and throws up new baby plants). Things like comfrey and elecampane would be good like this and definitely chamomile. If you’re buying seed, check the packaging - things that suggest ‘direct sowing’ into the ground are ideal for winter sowing in this way. Ones which say ‘start indoors’ might not work as well in the UK. Seeds tend to deteriorate a bit over time, so if you have older seed, I’d be tempted to sow quick thickly on the grounds that you might have a slow rate of germination. You can also test the germination rate/ viability of seed by various methods - here’s a helpful post on that https://joegardener.com/video/seed-germination-test/
Fabulous, thank you! I have Chamamile and Lemon Balm seeds already, so I'll give it a go this week. I'll certainly let you know how I get on. Thanks so much for sharing your experience on here; I'm genuinely grateful.
Hi Paula. I thought you might enjoy a little update. I started some seeds last month using this method, and on checking this morning, I have some little shoots coming through! Two types of Mallow, some Feverfew, and some Betony. And I don't think the Skullcap is far behind. I also have some lavender and St John's Chamomile starting on a windowsill. It's lovely to be growing things again, so I wanted to thank you for the advice and encouragement 😊
This is perfect timing - I was just looking at what seeds I have and what I need, and when to sow them. I haven't grown for a few years now, and the last year I tried was a bit of a flop, so I'm excited to try this. Aside from Motherwort, what other seeds do you think might work with this method, bearing in mind I'm in the UK, and the temp is still very low?
Fantastic! I’m so glad this was timely for you Debs. I’d say in general the types of herbs which grow best this way in the UK are ones which are from a cooler climate and tend to self seed around. Many members of the mint family such as lemon balm, skullcap, hyssop etc would be included in that - although I’ve found mint itself is best propagated by digging up its runners (where it spreads and throws up new baby plants). Things like comfrey and elecampane would be good like this and definitely chamomile. If you’re buying seed, check the packaging - things that suggest ‘direct sowing’ into the ground are ideal for winter sowing in this way. Ones which say ‘start indoors’ might not work as well in the UK. Seeds tend to deteriorate a bit over time, so if you have older seed, I’d be tempted to sow quick thickly on the grounds that you might have a slow rate of germination. You can also test the germination rate/ viability of seed by various methods - here’s a helpful post on that https://joegardener.com/video/seed-germination-test/
Have fun! And do share your results here.
Paula
Fabulous, thank you! I have Chamamile and Lemon Balm seeds already, so I'll give it a go this week. I'll certainly let you know how I get on. Thanks so much for sharing your experience on here; I'm genuinely grateful.
Hi Paula. I thought you might enjoy a little update. I started some seeds last month using this method, and on checking this morning, I have some little shoots coming through! Two types of Mallow, some Feverfew, and some Betony. And I don't think the Skullcap is far behind. I also have some lavender and St John's Chamomile starting on a windowsill. It's lovely to be growing things again, so I wanted to thank you for the advice and encouragement 😊