The flowers of True Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) are generally very richly arrayed and colored dark purple. The leaves are lance-shaped and not so broad as those of Russian Comfrey. True Comfrey is really the nicest of the Comfrey clan in my opinion. From the luscious leaves to the thick, mucilage-laden roots I find nothing to compare. For years…
Wasabi is an evergreen perennial in the Mustard family, albeit one of the more sensitive and reclusive mustards on Earth. The plant is native to Japan and cultivated there extensively, often grown in pure cold water of stream or spring. We find that the plant can readily be grown in good compost, as well. If watered frequently…
What could be more convenient? Sow your seeds directly in the garden at just the right season and watch them come up and develop right where they belong! Here are a few tips to make your direct-seeding experience as successful and convenient as it should be. What is it? Direct-seeding is sowing in place. One cannot “direct-seed” in a pot,…
Those of you who are familiar with starting cacti from seed may ignore these directions. Here are some tips for those of you who are just starting out growing cacti from seed. You need to use full spectrum grow lights or a good greenhouse. You can’t just germinate them on a windowsill in an apartment–they need bright light and…
Sow seed in regular greenhouse conditions or indoors in a warm and light location. Use 4 inch square pots filled with potting soil composed of 50% sifted compost and 50% coarse, sharp sand or pumice. Add a small amount of wood ash. Commercial cactus mix or standard potting soil are both acceptable, although mixing your own potting soil…
