Sowing and Growing Cowherb

Cowherb (Saponaria vaccaria or Saponaria officinalis), also known as soapwort, is an easy-to-grow, annual plant with soft pink or white flowers that can be used well in bouquets. This plant probably originates from central and southern Europe, but is now spread throughout Eurasia. Cowherb can also be found on roadsides, on fallow land and of course in gardens. It is an easy plant to grow that is resistant to drought. Also suitable for novice gardeners.

Growing cowherb from seeds

Cowherb (Saponaria vaccaria), is an annual plant that blooms with pink carnation-like flowers. The plant is native to central and southern Europe, but has now spread throughout Eurasia. The plant may be annual, but it sows easily, especially in light soil. The flowers smell wonderful and attract many insects, which is of great importance for nature.

Sowing cowherb seeds

Cowherb can be pre-sown in the house or greenhouse in March and April, after which the plants can be planted out in the garden after ice saints. Sow directly outdoors from April to July. The earlier, the longer the flowers can be enjoyed. Cowherb is a light germinator, so cover the seeds with a thin layer of sand, or just press them down.

Direct to the Cowherb Seeds >

Location and soil for cowherb flowers

Cowherb grows best in a sunny to semi-shaded spot. The soil must be well-drained, calcareous and moderately nutrient-rich. If necessary, compost can be processed into the soil before sowing.

Caring for cowherb flowers

Cowherb requires little care. Only water during drought. In principle, fertilization is not necessary.

Is cowherb bee and/or butterfly friendly?

Cowherb is an attractive plant for bees, bumblebees and butterflies.

Cowherb in the vegetable garden

Cowherb can be grown in a vegetable garden. The flower is a beautiful appearance among the different crops and attracts many pollinators. This is of course also important for increasing biodiversity.

Is cowherb edible and/or medicinal?

The flowers of cowherb are in principle edible, but the roots are poisonous. So be careful!

Please note that we at Dutch Garden Seeds do not provide medical advice. Always ask a professional if and how the plant can be used medicinally.

Cowherb seeds in our range

We have cowherb seeds in our range, organic seeds from the brand 'Buzzy Organic Seeds'.

Tips

• Cowherb has a tendency to proliferate. Prune the plant regularly, so that it also retains a nice, compact shape.

Direct to the Cowherb Seeds >