Günsel is a plant genus from the mint family (Lamiaceae) that is very widespread in Europe. The plants, which usually have blue or blue-violet flowers and grow to a height of up to 30 centimetres, are ideal as ornamental plants in the garden, but are also traditionally used as medicinal plants. A well-known representative is the creeping bugle (Ajuga reptans), a very vigorous groundcover.

Günsel is very easy to care for

Which location does Günsel prefer?

Günsel prefers sunny to slightly half-shady locations with moderately moist, nutrient-rich and slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Should you water Günsel?

In very dry summers you can water the Günsel, otherwise additional watering is not necessary.

Do you have to fertilize Günsel? If so, when and with what?

Fertilization is basically unnecessary. You can only enrich the soil with some compost when planting. At locations with rather nutrient-poor soils, they can also supply the Günsel with horn shavings (€32.93) or nettle manure in the spring.

How to cut bugle?

Pruning the Günsel is also not necessary, but you should prevent the fast-growing plant from spreading in good time.

What is the best way to combat rampant bugle?

This can be done by mowing regularly - simply with a lawn mower or lawn trimmer (€31.33) - but also by tearing out or cutting off the root runners. Since the plant also sows itself very reliably, it makes sense to mow it after flowering - ergo before fruit and seed formation. Unfortunately, root barriers do not have the desired effect, as the runners form above ground.

What diseases / pests threaten bugles? What can be done about it?

Günsel is very robust, but quite susceptible to powdery mildew in very humid summers and in unfavorable locations (especially in the shade). This usually does not bother the plant much and is only an optical problem. If the white coating bothers you, you can take action against it with a spray - but then the Günsel may no longer be used for medicinal or kitchen purposes. There are also various home remedies, with a milk-water mixture having proven particularly effective.

What is the best way to propagate Günsel?

Günsel reproduces itself very well via seeds and stolons, but division is also possible.

Is Günsel hardy?

As a native plant Günsel is very hardy and does not need any further winter protection.

tips

Günsel is a very important foraging pasture for bees and butterflies.

Category:

Herbs