The small burnet, often simply referred to as burnet, is best propagated from seeds. The seeds can be purchased both in well-assorted stationary and online shops or obtained from your own existing old plants. The burnet belongs to the light germs.
Sow burnets in the garden
In contrast to many other herbs, the burnet does not have to be grown on the windowsill or in the cold frame, but can be sown directly into the bed. Sowing can start as early as March, as the plant is quite insensitive to cold. In preparation, the bed should be thoroughly dug, smoothed and weeded. A sunny location with moist, loose and humus-rich soil is ideal. Although the burnet also thrives in dry places, it does not develop its typical aroma, which is slightly reminiscent of cucumbers. Sow the seeds directly at the later location and cover them only very lightly with soil or just press them down - the burnet needs light to germinate. The sowing site should always be kept moist.
Care of the seedlings
Depending on the weather, the seed sprout after about 10 to 14 days. As soon as at least two more leaves can be seen in addition to the two cotyledons, you can prick out the young plants and replant them at a distance of 30 x 40 centimeters. Later transplanting should be avoided as the burnet develops a very deep taproot. With direct sowing, you can also place the individual seeds at the right distance, but not all seeds will germinate - and you will have to move the plants one way or another. The first harvest is possible from around May, as soon as at least eight to ten leaves have developed.
Propagate burnet from seed
Although the burnet is basically a perennial (and hardy) herb, it should be resown about every two years. In principle, it is also possible to rejuvenate the plants by dividing them, but this is made more difficult by the taproot. However, the burnet develops many runners that can be used for this purpose. The easiest way to propagate is by seeds - all you have to do is flower the plant and then let the seeds mature. The burnet sows itself, all you have to do is transplant the young plants in the spring.
tips and tricks
As long as the burnet plants are still young, you must regularly and thoroughly remove rampant weeds. Otherwise, the young plants will quickly suffocate because they do not have enough space and air to grow.
IJA