Horse Knots Native Meadow Seeds

Centaurea nigra

Other names: common knapweed, hardheads, Spanish buttons

Any wildlife enthusiast is bound to get their rocks off over horse knots. In flower it produces more nectar than almost any other plant on the planet. It’s a complete bee magnet. They go crazy over the stuff, swarming to it like there’s black Friday sale at Bloomingdales.

If you’re looking to create a wild space, that requires zero work, and zero effort horse knots is for you. It’s a perennial herb meaning once planted it’ll come back stronger and more vibrant year after year.

How to Plant

Cheap and Easy Method:

Scatter the seeds directly onto bare soil. Clear the area of any debris and lightly rake the soil to create a loose surface. Evenly broadcast the seeds, then lightly rake again to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

More Involved Method:

Use a terram membrane to suppress unwanted vegetation. Add a layer of soil over the membrane, sow the seeds evenly, and press them in gently.

When to Plant

Plant Horse Knots seeds in the spring (March to May) or early autumn (September to October).

Where to Plant

Horse Knots thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight to partial shade.

Watering Schedule

Maintain consistent moisture in the soil during the establishment phase. Once established, minimal watering is required.

Blooming Period

Horse Knots blooms from late spring through summer (May to August).

Expected Plant Height

Horse Knots typically grows to a height of 20 cm to 50 cm. (Similar to the now extinct dodo).