How do you germinate comfrey seeds?
Starting Indoors/Outdoors: Comfrey seeds need to be cold treated, also known as stratification for optimum germination. Sow seed in a moisten soil-less growing medium, enclose in plastic bag or small container then place in refrigerator for a 20-60 days.
When can you sow comfrey seeds?
Sow outdoors March to June thinly, 1.5cm (½ in) deep in rows 23-30cm (9-12in) apart in growing position. Keep soil moist. Thin as necessary. Harvest: Can be cut and added to the compost heap when large enough.
Does comfrey spread by seed?
Does Comfrey Spread? Our comfrey does not produce viable seed and stays in place. It will only spread if disturbed because any piece of comfrey root will make a new plant. So any digging or rototilling near comfrey will result in new plants.
Is comfrey easy to grow?
While true comfrey can spread easily, Russian comfrey has sterile seed, so it won’t take over the garden. That benefit, plus the fact that it is a vigorous grower, is why many permaculture gardeners grow it as biomass for mulch or green manure.
Is it easy to grow comfrey from seed?
S. officinale, common comfrey, can be grown from seed. It is best to direct sow outdoors about three weeks before the average last frost date, planting about half an inch deep in soil. Water well and keep the soil moist until seeds germinate in about two to three weeks.
Is comfrey really toxic?
Comfrey has toxic substances that can cause severe liver damage and even death. You should never take comfrey by mouth. The toxic substances in comfrey can be absorbed by the skin. Even creams and ointments should be used for only a short time, and only under a doctor’s supervision.
Is comfrey bad for liver?
Comfrey contains has toxic substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that damage the liver, sometimes fatally. Comfrey is no longer sold in the U.S., except in creams or ointments, but even used this way the alkaloids can build up in the body.
Is it safe to drink comfrey tea?
When taken by mouth: Comfrey is LIKELY UNSAFE for anyone when taken by mouth. It contains chemicals (pyrrolizidine alkaloids, PAs) that can cause liver damage, lung damage, and cancer. The FDA has recommended that all oral comfrey products be removed from the market.