The tall perennial St. John’s Wort has dazzling, vivid yellow flowers. A woody root crown gives rise to one to thirty stems, each with several branches near the top. The lowest leaf axils of the stems produce numerous sterile shoots that range in length from one to four inches (spaces between the leaves and the stem). The stems, which are frequently reddish, may contain black glands along the two ridges of the stem. A thick taproot and several lateral roots with branches make up the root system. Moreover, rhizomes (horizontal, underground stems) grow only a few inches below the soil’s surface and can reach a distance of 1.5 feet. Rhizome fragments can grow into new plants. Moreover, St. John’s Wort reproduces through seed, which can survive in the soil for up to 10 years. The fruits and seeds are spread via water, equipment, footwear, clothes, and animal fur. Despite the plant’s prolific seed production, St. John’s Wort has unique environmental requirements for seed germination and seedling development, therefore only a very small number of seedlings are typically found within stands of mature plants.
How to Grow St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort is a simple plant to produce because it can withstand a variety of difficult circumstances. As a result, many gardeners consider it to be a weed. The earth is too damp, if it has any Achilles heel as all. St. John’s wort needs to be nurtured for a while when they are young, but once they are established, they can survive on their own. In actuality, controlling established plants will be your primary maintenance task.
Light
For optimal flower production, grow St. John’s wort in the North in full light. Yet, in the South, the plant benefits from some shade.
Soil
The plant can endure compacted soil even though it likes well-drained soil.
Water
When you are first trying to establish this perennial, keep it well-irrigated. Once fully grown, it can tolerate droughts to some extent.
Fertilizer
Although it can withstand poor soils, St. John’s wort performs best in fertile soils. For optimal results, add compost to the soil every year.
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