Urtica dioica
Open-pollinated. Biodynamic gardeners use nettles to increase the potency of neighboring herbs, and to stimulate humus formation. An indicator of very fertile soil where it volunteers. Young shoots and leaves are delicious steamed as spring greens, very high in minerals and protein. Dried, the leaves make a great hair rinse, are good for steepin in a bath, or for chicken feed. Choose your spot carefully; the spreading rhizomes as well as the leaves can sting. Cooking removes the sting. Plant in damp rich soil with high nitrogen content; especially likes composted manure piles or the leaky side of your lushest compost bin.
Open-pollinated. Biodynamic gardeners use nettles to increase the potency of neighboring herbs, and to stimulate humus formation. An indicator of very fertile soil where it volunteers. Young shoots and leaves are delicious steamed as spring greens, very high in minerals and protein. Dried, the leaves make a great hair rinse, are good for steepin in a bath, or for chicken feed. Choose your spot carefully; the spreading rhizomes as well as the leaves can sting. Cooking removes the sting. Plant in damp rich soil with high nitrogen content; especially likes composted manure piles or the leaky side of your lushest compost bin.