Comfrey can be propagated by taking root cuttings or crown cuttings. Crown cuttings are the most reliable and quickest way to establish new plants.
Crown cuttings
In March or April, cut through the plant horizontally at a depth of about 3 inches.
Divide the segment into offsets, each with some root material and one or more growing tips. Plant the segment horizontally in a new location, about 3 inches deep. Keep the soil moist but not soggy until you see growth. By the end of the growing season, your new plants should be thriving.
Root cuttings
- Trim back any leaves at the top of the root.
- Plant each root about twice as deep as its diameter.
- Within a month, you’ll start to see shoots and by about two months they will be ready for transplant.
When to propagate
Early spring and autumn are good times to propagate comfrey.
Where to plant
You can plant the cuttings into pots, permanent beds, or large pots as a permanent home.