The mullein plant, also known as woolly mullein, is a herbaceous biennial or short-lived perennial with a deep tap root. Verbascum thapsus, the great mullein, greater mullein or common mullein is a species of mullein native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia.
Mullein oil is extracted from the flower or leaves of the plant. The oil is used as a remedy for earaches, eczema, and some other skin conditions.
Essentials
Soil composition and ph levels for Mullein plants
The Soil Association lists the following as the soil composition and ph levels for Mullein:
* Loamy sand
* 10-20% clay
* 6.5-7.0 pH
* Well-drained soil
Mullein is a plant that prefers well-drained soil with a high clay content. The pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0. Sandy loam is the best type of soil for this plant. Mullein does not like wet or soggy soil.
If the soil is too sandy, it will not hold enough moisture and nutrients for the plant. If the soil is too clayey, it will not drain properly and the roots will rot.
Watering Mullein plants
Watering Mullein – Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the leaves. Water deeply, soaking the root zone.
Allow the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. Mullein can tolerate some drought once established. Too much water will cause the plant to rot. Water only when necessary.
Are there flowers in Mullein plants?
It is a common question that we get asked frequently. The answer is yes, there are indeed flowers in Mullein. They are small, yellow, and tubular-shaped, and they grow in dense clusters on the ends of the stem.
Each flower has five petals, and they are arranged in a wheel-like fashion. The flowers are very pretty, but they are also quite fragrant. So if you are looking for a plant that will add both beauty and fragrance to your garden, then Mullein might be the plant for you.
Does Mullein plants produce fruits?
Mullein is a biennial herb that produces a rosette of leaves in its first year of growth. In its second year, it sends up a tall stalk that bears flowers. After the flowers bloom and the plant dies back, it produces oval-shaped fruits that contain tiny seeds.
While mullein does produce fruits, it is typically considered to be an ornamental plant and is not grown for its fruit production.
Propagation of Mullein plants
Propagation of Mullein can be done by seed, division, or root cuttings.
Seed: Seed can be collected from the previous year’s seed heads in the fall and sown in the spring.
Division: Propagate by division in the spring.
Root Cuttings: Propagate by root cuttings taken from a mature plant in early spring before new growth begins.
Pests and diseases in Mullein plants
Pests and diseases are a big problem for farmers. They can cause huge losses in crop production and yield. Pests and diseases in Mullein are a major concern for farmers. They can cause yield losses of up to 30%. Pests and diseases in Mullein include:
* Bacterial wilt: A disease caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas solanacearum. It attacks the leaves, stem and flowers of the plant. The disease is spread by insects and can be controlled by using pesticides.
* Downy mildew: A disease caused by the fungus Peronospora parasitica. It affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and then brown. The disease is spread by wind and water and can be controlled by using fungicides.
* Powdery mildew: A disease caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. It affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn white or gray. The disease is spread by wind and can be controlled by using fungicides.
* Rust: A disease caused by the fungus Uromyces vexans. It affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn red or brown. The disease is spread by wind and can be controlled by using fungicides.
Irritation to pets from Mullein plants
Irritation to pets from Mullein. Pets can experience irritation from Mullein if they come into contact with the plant. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and discomfort. If you think your pet has come into contact with Mullein, please contact your veterinarian immediately.
Varieties of Mullein plants
There are several varieties of mullein (Verbascum spp.), all of which are useful in the garden. Common mullein (V. thapsus) is a tall, biennial plant that produces a long stalk covered in woolly leaves.
It is an excellent choice for providing contrast in the garden, and its flowers are also attractive to bees and other pollinators. Great mullein (V. giganteum) is another tall variety, reaching up to 2.5 m in height.
Its leaves are smaller than those of common mullein, and its flowers are a deep yellow color. Another popular variety is known as Greek mullein (V. olympicum), which is a low-growing plant with silver-gray leaves.
Its flowers are small and white, making it a good choice for edging beds or borders. No matter which variety you choose, mullein is easy to grow and provides valuable benefits to the garden.
Growing Mullein plants in containers and pots
Growing Mullein in containers and pots is a great way to add this lovely plant to your home. Here are some tips to help you get started:
* Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep. Mullein can grow quite large, so make sure you have enough space for it to spread out.
* Use a light, well-draining soil mix. You can find this at your local garden center or make your own by mixing equal parts sand, peat Moss, and perlite.
* Water regularly, especially during hot weather. Mullein does not like to dry out, so make sure you keep an eye on the soil moisture level.
Caring for Mullein plants
Mullein is a biennial plant that can be found in North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant has a tall flowering stalk that can grow up to six feet tall. The leaves are large and fuzzy, and the flowers are small and yellow.
Mullein is easy to care for and does not require much attention. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when caring for mullein:
* Mullein prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
* The plant prefers well-drained soil but can tolerant clay or loamy soils.
* Mullein is drought tolerant but will need additional water during extended periods of dry weather.
* Fertilize mullein once per year with a balanced fertilizer.
* If the plant begins to sprawl, trim back the leaves to encourage compact growth.
Mullein is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. With just a little attention, you can enjoy its beautiful flowers for many years to come.
Companion plants for Mullein
Mullein is a common biennial plant that grows in temperate climates. Companion plants can help to improve the growth and health of Mullein. Some Companion plants for Mullein include:
* Chamomile: Chamomile is a herbaceous plant that releases a strong scent when crushed. The scent helps to mask the smell of Mullein and can also help to deter pests.
* Basil: Basil is an annual herb that is known for its ability to repel mosquitoes. The plant also helps to improve the growth of Mullein by releasing nitrogen into the soil.
* Thyme: Thyme is a perennial herb that releases a strong scent when brushed against. The scent helps to mask the smell of Mullein and can also help to deter pests. Thyme also helps to improve the growth of Mullein by releasing nitrogen into the soil.
Planting and spacing for Mullein plants
Planting and spacing for Mullein:
* Plant in early spring, as soon as the ground can be worked.
* choose a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
* dig a hole twice the width and depth of the pot.
* mix in compost or other organic matter.
* place the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
* backfill with soil and water well.
* Mullein can be planted 12-24 inches apart, depending on the size of the plant.
Best time for growing Mullein plants
The best planting time for Mullein is in the spring, after the last frost. Mullein prefers full sun and well-drained soil. When planting, space the seeds 12 inches apart.
Mullein is a hardy plant and does not require much care. However, it is important to water regularly during the first growing season to help the plant establish itself.
Once established, Mullein is drought-tolerant and does not need much water.
Benefits of Mullein plants
Mullein is a plant that has a long history of medicinal use. Its leaves and flowers can be dried and made into teas, tinctures, or ointments that are said to offer a variety of health benefits. Some of the purported benefits of mullein include:
* Soothing respiratory problems such as bronchitis, coughs, and colds
* Reducing inflammation
* Helping to heal wounds
* Easing digestive disorders
* Alleviating pain
While more research is needed to confirm these claims, there is some evidence to suggest that mullein does indeed have medicinal properties. For example, a study published in 2018 found that an extract from the plant was effective in reducing inflammation in rats.
If you’re interested in trying mullein for yourself, talk to your doctor first to make sure it’s safe for you. They can also advise you on the best way to use it.
How long to grow Mullein plants?
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a hardy, biennial herb that can be found in most temperate climates. It grows to a height of 2-3 feet and has large, furry leaves and tall stalk of yellow flowers. Mullein is easy to grow from seed and can be started indoors or out.
If started indoors, sow seeds in flats 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant seedlings to the garden after all danger of frost has passed. If direct seeding, wait until the soil has warmed and then sow seeds ½ inch deep.
Thin seedlings to 18 inches apart. Mullein will flower the second year after planting and then die. Flowers appear in early summer and last for several weeks.
After flowering, allow plants to remain in the garden to self-seed. Mullein will often reseed itself quite freely. Plants can also be divided in spring or fall every 3-4 years if desired.Harvest young leaves for use in salads or as a boiled green when they are 4-6 inches long.
Leaves can also be dried for later use in teas or other herbal preparations. Flowers can be harvested when they are fully open and used fresh or dried for potpourri or other crafts.”
How to harvest Mullein seeds?
* Allow flower stalks to dry and turn brown.
* Cut the stalk just below the seed head and place in a paper bag.
* Shake the bag gently to release the seeds.
* Spread the seeds on a paper towel and allow to air dry for 24 hours.
* Store in a cool, dry place until ready to plant.
Where can Mullein plant seeds be purchased?
Mullien seeds can be purchased at any number of locations, including nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers. You can also find Mullien seeds in many seed catalogs.
Be sure to check the plant hardiness zone before purchasing, as Mullien is not frost-tolerant. Also, keep in mind that Mullien will self-seed if given the opportunity, so you may not need to purchase seeds every year.
Finally, make sure to purchase from a reputable source to ensure that you are getting high-quality seeds.
What does Mullein seeds look like?
Mullien (Verbascum thapsus) is a tall flowering plant that is native to Europe and Asia. The plant has large, white, woolly leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The seeds of the mullien plant are small, black, and oval-shaped.
They are typically harvested in the fall and can be used as a natural pesticide. Mullien seeds can also be sprouted and grown as a microgreen. When sprouted, the seeds have a mild flavor and can be added to salads or used as a garnish.
Mullien plants are easy to grow and require little maintenance. They are often found growing in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields. The plants can proliferate quickly, so it is important to keep them well-controlled.
Mullien plants can be controlled through physical removal, mowing, or herbicide application. The best time to control mullien plants is in the spring before they flower. Herbicide application should be done carefully to avoid harming non-target plants.
How to make Mullein tea?
* Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried Mullien leaves in a cup or mug.
* Pour boiling water over the leaves and let steep for 3-5 minutes.
* Enjoy as is, or add honey or lemon to taste.
| Mullien | |
| Water | The plant does better with moderate water; let the soil dry out between waterings as it is susceptible root rot. |
| Soil ph | 6.5-7 |
| Sunlight hours | The plant prefers full son; require light to germinate; |
| Pests and Diseases | Mullien plan bug, though feeds on pests such as aphids thrips and pear psylla in the early days, starts feeding on flowers and fruitlets later. |
| Temperature | Requires cold and moist conditions at germination stage. |
| Soil composition | Requires well-drained slightly alkaline soil, does not require much fertility. |
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