Wild Burdock (Arctium lappa)

Biennial. Hardy to zone 3.

Burdock prefers a deep rich soil, but will grow in poorer soils in full sun to part shade.
In the wild plants can be found growing in old barn yards and forest edges in fairly heavy shade. May grow up to 6 ft. tall by 3 ft. wide depending on soil fertility and moisture conditions.
Probably higher in medicinal value than domesticated varieties, which is the main reason  I am offering burdock seed. Seed is collected from wild plants. (Can not send seeds to CO or WY.)

Uses:  Can be eaten as a cooked vegetable. Burdock root is high in inulin which feeds the friendly bacteria in the intestines and can help with digestion.  Burdock is part of the famous Essiac anti-cancer formula and contains substances which deactivate mutagens such as pesticides, heavy metals and other toxic compounds. Burdock also contains compounds which help to detoxify the liver. Leaves can be eaten when young. The seeds are high in vitamin C and can be sprouted and used in salads.

Germination:  The easiest way to start plants is to plant seed outside in late autumn before ground freezes. Seed can also be sown outdoors in the spring or indoors in pots for transplanting. Seed germination may be erratic.

Scarify seed by lining a coffee can with sandpaper and shaking the burdock seed, (or ) soak seed in water for 12 hours.
Sow seed 1/16" to 1/8" deep or just barely cover as seed needs light to germinate.
Minimum soil temperature for germination is 50°F, (optimum is 68°F to 77°F.)
For straight roots plant 6" inches apart equidistant spacing , or  in rows 12" inches apart with plants 2" to 3" inches apart which will produce long thin roots. May also be planted 2 to 4 ft. apart to produce larger thicker roots.
Will grow in acid to alkaline soil 4.6 to 7.8 pH.

Notes: Flowers from July to September. Flowers are attractive to bees, moths and butterflies.