Weld Yellow Weed

Weld Yellow Weed: variety and characteristics

Weld Yellow Weed (Reseda luteola) is an annual, nectar-rich plant of the Mignonette family (Resedaceae). Mignonette has narrow, spear-shaped leaves and long, slender spikes of yellowish flowers.

It was once widely cultivated for the dye, flavone, used to colour fabrics yellow.

Mignonette was very well known in the 19 century, though it has now lost much of its popularity.

One reason is that it dislikes being moved, so it should be sown where it is to flower.

Mignonette looks modest but is a strongly scented, nectar-rich flower, smelling of honey and raspberries.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 85%
• Pack size: 0.2 g
• Seed origin: Poland
• Sowing: March and April; direct
• Flowering: July and August
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Weld Yellow Weed

Weld Yellow Weed seeds are sown in March and April. The plants flower in July and August. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Weld Yellow Weed

• Sowing method: direct
• Depth: 0.5–1 cm
• Spacing: 20–30 cm
• Germination: 10–20 days at 15–20 °C
• Position: sunny spot

Reaches a height of up to about 150 cm. Thrives in sun or light shade. Sow seeds from March to April where they are to flower. Sow on the surface and do not cover with soil, as light is needed for germination. Thin to 20 cm. apart. The evening fragrance is unforgettable – place it beneath a window or near a door.

Sow directly; it dislikes transplanting.

Flowering and uses

Flowers from June into autumn.

Frequently asked questions

When should Weld Yellow Weed be sown?

The recommended sowing months are March and April. Sowing method: direct.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 85%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.