Chelidonium majus

Germination

Sow indoors at any time. Sow into moist, well-drained seed compost. Ideal temp. 22°C for at least 6 weeks then cold stratify. Move to 4°C for a further 6-8 weeks. Repeat cycle until germination occurs. Once germinated transplant seedlings to 10°C. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed. Can be sown directly, allow natural winter cold to offer ideal conditions for germination to occur the following spring as the weather warms.

Growing

Prefers a moist soil. Prefers a soil which is occasionally disturbed as this encourages regeneration through dormant seed in the soil.

Cultivation

Grows readily from seed on most soils. If the site is left undisturbed for many years this plant may be overtaken by more robust perennials. Disturb the soil in autumn to prevent this.