Ribwort Plantain Native Seeds

Plantago lanceolata 

Other names: lamb's tongue, buckhorn

The Indians refer to ribwort plantain as 'medicine of life', but not only is it a remedy for the many bruises and scratches of life. Pollinator friendly, edible and often seen still flowering in October, ribwort plantain extends the life of your garden. Hardy, suitable to most soils and easy to grow, introduce these delicate white petals to your garden and continue the pollinator paradise well into Autumn.

How to Plant

To plant ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata) seeds, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Soil: Ribwort plantain can tolerate a variety of soil types but prefers well-drained soil. Lightly till the soil to remove weeds and loosen it for the seeds.

2. Sowing: Sow the seeds directly on the soil surface. Do not cover them with more than a light dusting of soil, as they need light to germinate.

3. Spacing: Aim for a seed spacing of around 6-12 inches apart. This spacing gives each plant enough room to grow and develop.

4. Press Down Gently: Press the seeds into the soil to ensure good contact. This can be done by lightly walking over the planting area or using a roller.

5. Mulch (Optional): A thin layer of mulch can be applied to retain moisture, but it should not be thick enough to block light.

When to Plant

Plant ribwort plantain seeds in early spring or late autumn:

• Spring Planting: Sow seeds as soon as the soil can be worked, typically from March to May. The cool weather of spring helps the seeds germinate.

• Autumn Planting: You can also sow seeds in late autumn (October to November). The seeds will lie dormant through the winter and germinate in the spring.

Where to Plant

Ribwort plantain grows well in areas that receive full sun to partial shade. Choose a spot with:

• Sunlight: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal, though it can tolerate some shade.

• Soil Type: It thrives in a variety of soils, from sandy to clay, as long as the soil is well-drained. It also tolerates poor, compacted soils.

• Landscaping Needs: It can be planted in meadows, borders, or as part of a wildflower garden. It’s also suitable for lawn integration as it can handle regular mowing.

Watering Schedule

• Germination Stage: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water lightly once a day or as needed to ensure the soil doesn’t dry out.

• Established Plants: Ribwort plantain is drought-tolerant once established. Watering is only needed during prolonged dry periods. Deep watering once a week should suffice during these times.

Blooming Period

Ribwort plantain typically blooms from April to September. During this period, the plants produce long, slender flower spikes with small, brownish flowers surrounded by a halo of white stamens. The blooming season may vary slightly depending on the local climate and planting time.

No Grow No Fee

Minimum of 2 years post sowing before claim can be made.