Mountain knapweed, which is very similar to cornflowers, can be propagated in two ways. Here we explain what they are and how to do it.
The mountain knapweed (Centaurea montana) is a real ornament for every bed. With its delicate flowers, the plant knows how to impress between May and August. Hardy, easy to grow and non-toxic, mountain knapweeds make an ideal addition to the family garden. If you want to propagate your mountain knapweed, you will find all the important information and advice for growing young plants here.
Mountain knapweeds are very eager to sow themselves in the fall. In addition, the plant can be propagated in two ways:
- root division
- Seeds
❶ Propagating mountain knapweed by root division
Root division is a method of propagation that can be done easily and without much effort. The hobby gardener does not need to be patient until the first tender plants develop, he immediately gets a mature plant that can be cultivated accordingly.
When should the root be divided?
Root division preferably occurs in spring. The plants can also be propagated in this way in autumn. It is important that the plants are not currently growing or in full bloom.
How to proceed with root division?
Propagation by root division is done in a few simple steps. First, the existing plant is completely removed from the ground. The soil is loosened from the root ball. To prevent germs from getting into the root, it is advisable to clean the root ball with water. The root is then divided into individual segments with a spade or knife. The number of plants that can be obtained depends on the size of the original plant. Two plants of equal value can be gained if the mountain knapweed is divided in the middle. Larger Mountain Knapweed can also be split into multiple segments.
➔ Tip: The cutting tools should be cleaned regularly and cleaned with alcohol to prevent germs from accumulating on themsettle, which are then transferred to the plants.
How to proceed with the root parts?
After dividing the roots, you have won two or more independent plants. After the interfaces have dried briefly, the individual root sections can be put back into the ground.
➔ Tip: When planting in groups, a distance of at least 30 centimeters should be maintained.
First, new planting holes are dug at a suitable location. If the bed is new, the first thing to do is to remove weeds, stones or roots from the soil. Barren soils can be upgraded with compost or horn shavings. The individual root sections are now carefully planted. The mountain knapweed should not be lower than the parent plant was before the root division. The plants are watered well and cultivated as usual from the original plant.
Propagation by root division in keywords:
- Dig up plant
- Clean root ball
- Split the root with a knife or spade
- Transplant sections separately
❷ Propagating Mountain Knapweed by seeds
Propagation by seeds takes a little longer. While patience is required, growing seeds, watching germination and growing young plants is a rewarding experience.
How to get the seeds?
Anyone who already owns a mountain knapweed does not have to invest in the seeds. Faded flowers are simply left on the plant a little longer. Seeds ripen in autumn and the seeds can be collected.
How to treat the seeds?
After harvesting, the seeds are first dried. This should be done in a cool and dry place. Now you can decide whether you want to grow the seeds indoors or sow them directly outdoors.
How to prefer the seeds?
You can start growing the seeds on the warm windowsill at the beginning of March. The seeds are placed in a seed tray and only lightly covered with substrate. Covering with a plastic hood can speed up germination.
➔ Tip: If the seed tray is covered, it should be aired regularly to prevent mold from forming in the seed container.
After a few weeks, the seeds will begin to germinate and by the time they are planted in late spring, small plants will have developed.
How does it workDirect sowing?
In the case of direct sowing, there is no pre-germination. Sowing takes place directly on the spot in the field. The best time to do this is early to mid-May. The seeds are applied to the appropriately prepared soil and only lightly covered with soil. The seeds must then be watered well. Use the watering can attachment to avoid washing the seeds out of the ground because the water pressure is too high.
When will the first seedlings appear?
After about two weeks, the first shoot tips should become visible. When the plantlets have grown about ten to fifteen centimeters in height, they are divided and transplanted separately. Group plantings are particularly attractive.
Advantages and disadvantages of propagation methods
| Propagation method | Advantages | Cons |
| root division | Dividing the roots is a quick and uncomplicated method that even inexperienced hobby gardeners can easily do themselves. The sections can be planted separately again immediately and you get fully developed plants. | A sufficiently developed plant is required. If sterilized cutting tools are not used, germ transmission can occur during root division. |
| Sowing | The seed can easily be obtained from existing plants. The seeds can be grown in the room. You get several plants in one operation. | If you don't own a plant, you must purchase the seeds. It takes patience for the seeds to grow into young plants. The maintenance effort is higher than with root division. |