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Seeds - Canada Milk Vetch
Seeds - Canada Milk Vetch
Seeds - Canada Milk Vetch
Seeds - Canada Milk Vetch
Semences d'astragale du Canada - astragalus canadensis
Semences d'astragale du Canada - astragalus canadensis
On sale

Seeds - Canada Milk Vetch

Astragalus canadensis

Minimum 75 semences par enveloppe

$4.25
( / )
Format

Semences par gramme: 543

Année de récolte: 2024


Catégories: comestible, indigène, médicinale, nectarifère, vivace,

Aire de répartition indigène: BC, AB, SK, MB, ON, QC, NT,

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For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!

Canada milk vetch (Astragalus canadensis) is a native perennial plant, reaching heights up to 90 cm. It is distinguished by its lovely cream-coloured flowers, rich in nectar, which attract numerous pollinators. This nitrogen-fixing plant, belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae), plays a vital role in improving soil fertility. Starting in August, its flowers develop into pods containing seeds that remain on the plant throughout the fall and even into early winter, providing an important food source for birds.

Medicinal and Culinary Uses
The root is analgesic and anti-hemorrhagic. It is also edible and can be harvested in the spring or fall. Some caution is advised, as if the root is bitter, it may indicate the presence of toxic alkaloids.

Ecological Role
This plant contributes to biodiversity by attracting various pollinators while enriching the soil through its nitrogen-fixing ability. By incorporating milk vetch into gardens, we promote a healthier and more sustainable ecosystem while providing a suitable habitat for birds.

Canada milk vetch seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the cultivation notes below for more details.

Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.

Growing Notes | Seeds - Canada Milk Vetch

A cold stratification of 60 to 90 days and light scarification are necessary to ensure germination of Canada milk vetch seeds.

Scarification: Gently rub the seeds between two sheets of fine sandpaper, taking care not to apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the seeds. The goal is not to remove the entire outer seed coat (the tegument) but to slightly damage it to facilitate imbibition, which is the absorption of water by the seed.

Stratification: Next, mix the seeds with a moist substrate (such as vermiculite, perlite, or sand) and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for 30 days.

Sow 5 mm deep.

The stratified seeds will germinate within a few days, and the young plants will immediately develop a deep taproot in search of water. Therefore, be sure to use containers that are deep enough (5 to 6 inches) to allow this root to grow.

You can also sow directly in place in the fall, allowing scarification and stratification to occur naturally outdoors, although the germination rate may be reduced.

Seeds per packet: 75

Family: Fabaceae

Scientific name: Astragalus canadensis

Life cycle: Perennial

Hardiness zone: 2

Soil type: Sandy to silty

Soil moisture level: Medium

Soil - additional attributes: Well drained

Light: Sun, partial shade

Blooming: June to July

Spacing: 60 cm

Height: 90 cm

Deer resistance: Low

Stratification: 30 days

Scarification: Sanding

Germination time: 15 to 20 days

Sowing depth: 5 mm