Propagate knotweed from seeds

Sow knotweed in autumn

Of the Knotweed loves moist soils and therefore thrives particularly well near standing or flowing water. Thanks to its long, lush flowering, it is both an ornamental and a Bee pasture very popular. In addition, both the young leaves and shoots and the seeds Prepare varied and tasty. Increase that Knotweed either via pieces of root or via seeds. Go to the sowing as follows:

• The knotweed is a cold germ.
• For this reason, it is best to sow directly outdoors in autumn.
• Alternatively, sowing in seed trays is also possible.
• use Sowing soil or a gravel mix.
• Then the probability is highest that the plant will germinate well.
• If that is not possible, simulate the natural course.
• First, the seeds are moist and warm for about three weeks (at max. 20 ° C).
• This is followed by a cold period at temperatures around freezing point for at least four weeks.
• You can simulate this in the refrigerator (not in the freezer!).
• The cooling period is followed by a period at 5 to 10 ° C.
• This should last for several weeks.
• With a subsequent slow increase in temperature, germination takes place.

Process seeds like buckwheat

Both the young leaves and the shoots of the meadow knotweed can be eaten as vegetables in spring, but only before they bloom. In late summer - ergo in the months of August and September - you can collect the ripe seeds because these can be prepared like the related buckwheat - also a knotweed plant - and use. Knotweed seeds can be ground and added to flour or as a side dish (e.g. B. with vegetable dishes). The plant is found in medicine can also be used as a tea.

Prepare meadow knotweed seeds correctly

The freshly collected knotweed seeds are best prepared in this tried and tested way:

• Before cooking, wash the grains thoroughly with hot water.
• Fill a pot with meadow knotweed and water in a ratio of 1: 2.
• Put the whole thing on cold and cover the pot with a lid.
• Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Simmer the seeds until the water is completely absorbed.
• Then wash the grains again thoroughly with hot water.
• With a little butter and salt, the grains make a delicious side dish.

Tips & Tricks

Also the Knotweed, a climbing plant, can be propagated via seeds. Only the Japanese knotweed does not form seeds, as there are only female specimens in Europe.