Propagate Comfrey from Root Cuttings

Introduction

Comfrey is a fast-growing, perennial herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine and as a natural fertilizer for gardens. It is known for its deep taproots, which can mine nutrients from deep within the soil and make them available to other plants. While Comfrey can be propagated by seed, it is more commonly grown from root cuttings, which is a faster and more reliable method.

One of the most popular cultivars of Comfrey is Bocking 14, which is a sterile variety that does not produce seeds. This makes it a great choice for gardeners who want to avoid the spread of invasive Comfrey in their garden. Bocking 14 Comfrey is also known for its high levels of allantoin, a compound that is believed to promote healing and reduce inflammation. It is a great addition to any garden, whether you're looking for a natural fertilizer or a medicinal herb.

 

  1. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil. Comfrey prefers rich, fertile soil but can tolerate a range of soil types.

  2. Prepare the soil by digging a hole that is slightly larger than the Comfrey root cutting. If your soil is poor, you can amend it with compost or other organic matter.

  3. Take a Comfrey root cutting and plant it vertically in the hole, with the cut side facing down and the top of the cutting sticking out of the soil.

  4. Cover the cutting with soil so that only the top is exposed. Press down on the soil gently to remove any air pockets.

  5. Water the Comfrey cutting until the soil is evenly moist.

  6. If desired, add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. Repeat the process with additional Comfrey root cuttings, spacing them at least 18-24 inches apart.

  8. Water the plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather, to help them establish deep roots.

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