Gardening Magazine

Self-seeders

By Mwillis
Like many gardeners, I am always keen to get more plants for free. Therefore I like plants that self-propagate easily - within reason! Not all prolific self-propagators are welcome. For instance, I still keep finding little seedlings of Golden Feverfew, which I have not consciously grown in my garden for at least 10 years.
This is a Pulmonaria (Lungwort) growing at the base of my Cherry tree. It arrived here of its own volition, and is evidently planning to stay.
Self-seeders
And not just to stay, but also to colonise! Just look at the number of little seedlings in the shingle surrounding it:
Self-seeders
Much as I like Pulmonaria, most of those will have to go!
The Japanese Anemone "September Charm" is equally bent on world domination:
Self-seeders
It spreads rapidly via underground roots, sending up a new plantlet every so often, just like the Strawberry:
Self-seeders
All along the edge of the border there are little Anemone plants. I have pulled up any that have made it out into the shingle. Enough is enough!
Self-seeders
Just near the Anemone is my clump of Wild Garlic, which is also enthusiastic - perhaps TOO enthusiastic!
Self-seeders
It's reasonably under control at present, but I have already noticed bits of it appearing at the other side of the garden. Presumably seeds get distributed by the wind...
This next plant however is one which I am actively encouraging to propagate. It is the Snakeshead Fritillary.
Self-seeders
It grows easily from seed, and the tall flower-stems assist in spreading the seed afar. Look at this little line of Fritillary seedlings next to the border edging:
Self-seeders
The flowers are only at the bud stage right now, but you can already see their mottled colours beginning to emerge.
Self-seeders
Here's another vigorous self-seeder for you - the Red-veined Sorrel:
Self-seeders
It looks pretty (as well as being edible), but once you introduce it into your garden it will be with you for ever!

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