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Greater burdock

Arctium lappa · Asteraceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant greater burdock: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
July to September
Adult size
80 cm to 1.5 m tall
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy (down to -20 °C)
Origin
Europe, temperate Asia
Soil type
Deep, rich, well-draining
Life cycle
Biennial

Care

Watering

Water regularly, especially during dry periods, keeping the soil moist without waterlogging. Greater burdock appreciates consistent moisture, particularly during its first year of establishment.

Exposure

Place the burdock in full sun or partial shade. Good light exposure promotes vigorous growth and abundant flowering.

Soil Preparation

Prepare deep, loose soil enriched with organic matter, as burdock develops a significant taproot. Remove stones and compacted areas that could hinder root development. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH is ideal.

Pruning and Removal

No real pruning necessary. You can remove spent flowers to encourage longer flowering, or cut the plant to ground level after the first year if it becomes too invasive. At the end of its cycle, pull up the entire plant.

Fertilization

Apply well-decomposed compost or manure in autumn to enrich the soil. Light fertilization in spring of the second year can boost flowering, but the plant is not very demanding.

Diseases and Pests

Burdock is generally very resistant. Occasionally watch for aphids and slugs, especially on young plants. Natural fungicides are sufficient if needed. Excellent drainage prevents root rot.

Did you know?

Greater burdock has been cultivated for centuries in Asia, notably in Japan, where its root (gobo) is a traditional table vegetable renowned for its nutritional properties. In medieval Europe, the plant was already used in herbal medicine, and its spiky flowers inspired the inventors of velcro — nature preceding human innovation!

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.