How to Grow Burdock
Arctium lappa
Hardy Cool Season Single Harvest
Burdock is grown for its long, sweet taproot (gobo in Japanese cooking). Direct sow in spring into deep, loose soil — never transplant. Thin to 30 cm apart. Keep weed-free and water during dry spells. Harvest at 4-5 months before roots become woody. Deep soil preparation is the single most important factor for a good crop.
When to Start
Direct sow outdoors as soon as soil reaches 8°C — typically early to mid spring. Hardy enough to tolerate light frosts.
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Growth Stages
Sow seeds
Day 0 Germination
~14 days Harvest
~120 days Seed to harvest ~120 days
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Apply a balanced fertiliser at sowing. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which produce excessive leafy growth at the expense of the root. A low-nitrogen, high-potassium feed at mid-season supports root development.
- Direct sow only — burdock has a long taproot and does not transplant well. Needs deep, loose, stone-free soil to produce straight roots. Raised beds or deep-dug trenches work well. Very large leaves — allow plenty of space.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 8°C+
- Germination temperature
- 10–25°C
Don't know your frost date? Find it here
- Direct sow
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 45 cm |
| Sow depth | 1.5 cm |
| Mature height | 150 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 8°C |
| Germination temperature | 10–25°C |
| Base growth temperature | 5°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 8h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Burdock?
- Plant Burdock 30cm apart with 45cm between rows.
- Is Burdock frost hardy?
- Burdock is classified as Hardy.
