Comfreys in Barnton
Symphytum officinale
A hardy perennial for a permanent UK garden bed. It grows best in moist, fertile soil and is usually planted from crowns or bare roots in spring, then cut back for feed a few times each year once established.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Comfrey
Planting Calendar
Prepare the Bed
15 Mar – 28 AprClear the site of perennial weeds and dig in plenty of well-rotted compost or manure before planting. Work the soil to a fine tilth and leave it settled for 15th March - 28th April so the bed is ready for a long-term planting.
Plant Crowns
31 Mar – 12 MayPlant dormant crowns or bare roots once the ground is workable, setting them at depth. Space them apart, then water in well straight after planting.
Keep Weed Free
21 Apr – 19 AugKeep the bed clear of weeds and water during dry spells through 21st April - 19th August while the roots settle in. Do not cut any growth in the first year, let the foliage build the root crown for future harvests.
Top-Dress
31 Mar – 14 Aprevery 365 daysTop-dress the crown area with compost or a balanced organic feed as new growth starts. Repeat once a year from 31st March for steady leafy growth and better cutting the following season.
Harvest Leaves
14 Apr – 12 AugCut young leaves and stems for feed from 14th April once the plant is established. Take only a few cuts over 14th April - 12th August, then stop so the plant can rebuild its crown for next year.
Cut Back
22 Sept – 20 OctAfter the first frosts, cut the dying foliage down to ground level and clear away debris from 22nd September - 20th October. This helps keep the planting tidy and reduces places where pests can overwinter.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Comfrey.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Comfrey to consider
Bocking 14
A common sterile Russian comfrey selection, widely used in UK gardens for leaf production and as a mulch crop.
Bocking 4
A well-known comfrey selection grown for vigorous leafy growth and frequent cutting for compost or liquid feed.
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