Comfrey

Comfrey, a perennial plant with multiple virtues, is often used as green manure in vegetable gardens. Its scientific name, Symphytum officinale, derives from the Greek “symphyo” meaning “I weld myself”. This name refers to the belief that comfrey leaves, when applied to wounds, would be able to “weld” the tissues. But far from being limited to this medicinal role, comfrey is also a precious ally for the vegetable garden soil.

Thanks to its deep and powerful root system, comfrey is able to extract nutrients and minerals from the soil, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and calcium, which its long roots have previously drawn from deep. By harvesting these elements and storing them in its leaves, it makes a very rich natural green manure. In addition to providing essential nutrients to other plants in the vegetable garden, comfrey also improves the structure of the soil by aerating it and making it more friable.

To sow comfrey, it is preferable to choose plants rather than seeds, because the germination of comfrey seeds is often capricious. Opt for healthy, well-developed plants from specialized nurseries. It is recommended to provide sufficient space for the growth of the plants, approximately 70 centimeters between each comfrey plant.

The ideal time to sow comfrey is usually in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Simply dig a hole the size of the plant, carefully place the comfrey rootball inside and cover the roots with soil. Be sure to pack the soil tightly around the plant to avoid air pockets.

During the growing period, comfrey requires a good supply of water. Be sure to keep it sufficiently humid, especially in the event of drought, so that it can develop properly. Over the weeks, you will be able to observe its growing vigor, with large and shiny leaves, a sign of the mineral wealth it captures in the soil.

It is recommended to let comfrey grow for at least a year before pulling it out. In fact, it is during this period that it will accumulate the most nutrients in its leaves. Uprooting is generally carried out in spring or autumn, when the plant is in vegetative rest. Cut the leaves close to the ground and allow them to decompose on the soil surface. You can also use them to prepare comfrey manure, by letting them ferment in water for several days. This manure will then be diluted and used as a concentrated fertilizer for your plants.

In conclusion, comfrey is therefore an invaluable green fertilizer for the soil of your vegetable garden. Its vigorous growth, its nutritional properties and its ability to improve the structure of the soil make it a valuable ally for your crops. If you are looking for a natural and ecological solution to enrich your vegetable garden, comfrey is certainly a plant to try.