Comfrey (Symphytum spp.) is a versatile and valuable addition to any organic garden. Renowned for its robust growth, deep roots, and ability to enhance soil fertility, comfrey is a standout among herbs. This article provides an in-depth look at growing organic true comfrey (Symphytum officinale) from seeds, detailing the plant’s appearance, benefits to the soil, and how it compares to other popular herbs.
Appearance of Comfrey Plants
Comfrey is a perennial herb that can reach heights of up to three feet, with a similar spread. The plant is characterized by its large, hairy leaves, which can grow up to 18 inches long and are a rich, deep green color. The leaves are broad and lance-shaped, with a slightly rough texture due to the presence of tiny hairs.
During the blooming season, comfrey produces clusters of bell-shaped, purple flowered blooms that range in color from purple to blue, pink, or white, depending on the variety. These flowers are not only attractive but also serve as an excellent source of nectar for pollinators, particularly bees.
Comfrey is native to Europe and parts of Asia, which contributes to its resilience in a range of climates.
The plant’s roots are another notable feature. Comfrey develops a deep, extensive root system that can penetrate the soil up to ten feet deep. These roots are thick and black, resembling large, sturdy taproots. This extensive root system plays a crucial role in the plant’s ability to draw up nutrients from deep within the soil.
Benefits to the Soil
One of the most significant advantages of growing comfrey is its positive impact on soil health. Comfrey offers several key benefits:
1. Nutrient Accumulation: Comfrey’s deep roots allow it to access nutrients that are beyond the reach of many other plants. These nutrients, including potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and trace minerals, are then stored in the leaves. When comfrey leaves are used as mulch or compost, these nutrients are returned to the soil, enriching it and making them available to other plants.
2. Soil Structure Improvement: The extensive root system of comfrey helps to break up compacted soil and improve its structure. As the roots grow and die back, they create channels in the soil, enhancing aeration and water infiltration. This leads to better root development and healthier plants overall.
3. Weed Suppression: Comfrey grows rapidly and produces a dense canopy of leaves that effectively suppresses weeds. This ground-covering ability makes comfrey an excellent choice for managing weed growth in the garden without the need for chemical herbicides.
4. Green Manure: Comfrey leaves can be used as green manure. By cutting and incorporating them into the soil, you can add a significant amount of organic matter and nutrients. This practice is particularly beneficial in preparing garden beds for planting. Comfrey leaves are also ideal for adding to compost piles, where they accelerate decomposition and improve the nutrient profile of finished compost.
Growing Organic Comfrey from Seeds
Growing comfrey from seeds requires patience and care, as it can be somewhat challenging compared to other herbs. However, with the right approach, you can successfully establish comfrey in your garden. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Seed Selection and Stratification: Choose high-quality, organic true comfrey seeds for the best results. Stratification, or cold treatment, is essential for comfrey seeds to germinate effectively. To stratify the seeds, place them in a moist medium, such as sand or peat moss, and refrigerate them for 4–6 weeks. This mimics the natural winter conditions that the seeds need to break dormancy.
2. Sowing Seeds: After stratification, sow the seeds in seed trays or pots filled with a well-draining seed starting mix. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place the trays or pots in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight.
3. Germination and Transplanting: Comfrey seeds typically take up to 30 days to germinate, depending on temperature and stratification success. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into the garden. Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, as comfrey prefers well-drained soil and thrives in moderately sunny conditions.
4. Soil Preparation: Prepare the planting site by incorporating organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, into the soil. This improves soil fertility and structure, providing an ideal environment for comfrey to thrive.
5. Planting and Care: Dig holes slightly larger than the root ball of the seedlings and place them in the prepared holes. Backfill with soil, firming it gently around the roots. Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Comfrey requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, to establish a strong root system.
6. Maintenance: Once established, comfrey is relatively low-maintenance. It benefits from occasional feeding with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and add organic matter to the soil as it breaks down.
7. Harvesting Leaves: Comfrey leaves can be harvested several times throughout the growing season. Use a sharp knife or shears to cut the leaves about 2 inches above the base of the plant. Harvesting encourages new growth and ensures a continuous supply of nutrient-rich leaves for mulch, compost, or green manure. You can also use harvested leaves to make compost tea, a natural liquid fertilizer packed with nutrients.
Comfrey vs. Other Popular Herbs
1. Growth Habit: While many herbs, such as basil, thyme, and rosemary, are relatively compact and bushy, comfrey is a larger, more vigorous plant. Its deep roots and extensive leaf production set it apart from the more modest growth habits of these culinary herbs.
2. Soil Improvement: Unlike most culinary herbs that are primarily grown for their flavor and aroma, comfrey is valued for its soil-enhancing properties. Its ability to mine nutrients from deep within the soil and improve soil structure makes it a powerhouse in the garden.
3. Weed Suppression: Comfrey’s dense leaf canopy provides excellent weed suppression, a feature not commonly found in other herbs. While herbs like mint and oregano can spread and cover ground, they do not offer the same level of weed control as comfrey.
4. Nutrient-Rich Mulch: Comfrey leaves are rich in nutrients, making them an exceptional mulch or compost ingredient. In contrast, many culinary herbs do not offer the same level of nutrient accumulation, focusing instead on their aromatic and flavor properties.
5. Perennial Nature: Comfrey is a hardy perennial that can live for many years with minimal care. Many popular herbs, such as basil and cilantro, are annuals that need to be replanted each year. This perennial nature of comfrey adds to its appeal as a long-term investment in soil health.
In Summary
Growing organic comfrey from seeds is a rewarding endeavor that offers numerous benefits for the garden. From its robust growth and deep-rooted nutrient accumulation to its weed-suppressing abilities and soil structure improvement, comfrey is a valuable ally for any organic gardener. While it differs significantly from other popular herbs in terms of growth habit and uses, comfrey’s unique contributions to soil health make it an indispensable part of a sustainable garden.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow comfrey and harness its full potential to enhance your garden’s productivity and soil fertility. Whether used as mulch, compost, compost tea, or green manure, comfrey’s nutrient-rich leaves will ensure your soil remains healthy and fertile, supporting the growth of a diverse range of plants for years to come.
Comfrey Seeds for Purchase
To purchase comfrey seeds, click here. You can also browse all organic herb seeds in our Fertilizer & Growing Supplies collection.
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University of Wisconsin - Agronomy Department: "Comfrey" This article provides an in-depth look at comfrey (Symphytum officinale), focusing on its growth habits, environmental requirements, and nutritional value. Comfrey is noted for its high protein content and deep root system, which makes it resilient to drought and cold. The article also discusses the propagation methods, emphasizing the use of root cuttings and crown divisions for best results. Additionally, it highlights the plant’s significant nutritional properties, although caution is advised regarding its potential health risks when consumed in large quantities. Read more here.
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Utah State University Extension: "Comfrey in the Garden" This comprehensive guide details how to grow and care for comfrey in a garden setting. It covers soil preparation, planting techniques, watering requirements, and harvesting methods. The guide also addresses the medicinal uses of comfrey, particularly its external applications for treating injuries. Additionally, it warns about the risks of liver toxicity from consuming comfrey in large amounts. The document includes practical tips for maintaining moderate soil moisture and ensuring adequate nitrogen levels for optimal growth. Read more here.
