Guide to growing Solomon's Seal - Polygonatum
Members of the Polygonatum are hardy perennials that vary widely in height; with some members reaching 1.2M in height.
They bloom in the first months of summer and carry clusters of small hanging white tubular flowers.
Polygonatum are ideal plants to grow in mass.
A common name for Polygonatum is Solomon's Seal.
How to grow Solomon's Seal
Solomon's seal can either be grown from roots (bury 5cm deep) or seeds. If growing from seed sow in flats in the spring; the flats should be wrapped in a plastic bag and kept in the fridge for three weeks or so. Upon removing from the (fridge and plastic bag)the flat should be sank into a shady part of the garden that and covered with glass. It can take anything from one month to one and a half years for Solomon's seal (Polygonatum) to germinate. Once the seedlings emerge transplant them into a shady or partially shaded part of the garden at about 50cm apart. Ideally the soil should be moist , light and slightly acidic (pH 6 to 7).
Caring for Solomon's seal and other Polygonatum
It is easy to care for Solomon's seal and other Polygonatum members; they like moist soil so keep well watered; apply a top dressing of manure at the start of spring; and give them an occasional feed. If you require more plants then Polygonatum can be propagated by division in the spring.