This online guide has been created for you to successfully grow a variety of plants that thrive in the tropics, using native non-GMO seeds and plants to get growing with wise advice from fellow  backyard gardeners and farmers. You are welcome to add your wisdom, share seed procurement, growing, harvest tips and recipes. Just follow the format below to write about a backyard vegetable, fruit, bush or tree that you like, or would like to learn about, and send your article to proorganicbelize@gmail.com.
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astragalus


Botanic name:
 Astragalus membranaceus
Family
 Fabaceae
Plant type:
 Perennial
Sun exposure:
Partial shade to full sun
pH
 6.0-7.5
Soil preference:
Sandy, well-drained soil
Sowing depth and distance
 1/4 " deep every 5" to 6".
After3" tall thin to 12-18" apart


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Grow Guide Index

Plant of the Month September 2024

 

ASTRAGALUS

by Mary Loan

 

 

This month we are venturing off the usual backyard edible plants and herbs to explore growing and using a medicinal plant, astragalus, an adaptogen plant that is used as a supplement to treat many conditions.   It takes at least two years for the plants to grow a strong enough root system for harvest. Before purchasing seeds, plants or preparations made with astragalus it is advised to research your seed source to ensure that they are from safe and reliable.   Plant People sells astragalus products that are made with organic U.S. farmed ingredients. 

 

Astragalus is a large genus of over 3,000 species of herbs and small shrubs belonging to the Fabaceae family.  We are focusing on the perennial plant variety Astragalus membranaceus, which is also known as milkvetch.  Native to China and Korea, astragalus has been grown and used for many centuries in traditional Chinese medicine preparations.  Many varieties are grown in the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.

 

Once you secure the seeds that you have researched to be safe, follow these growing instructions:


Weed and break up the top surface of the soil where you want the plants to grow.  Partial shade to full sun is best.  Sandy well drained soil with a pH of 6.0 – 7.5 is recommended. Soaking the seeds overnight or nicking them before planting help the seeds to sprout.  Sow seeds ½ inch deep every 5”- 6“, then thin the plants once they are about 3” high and space them 12” to 18” apart.  Be sure to water the seeds after planting; as they develop hairy stems with small leaflets of the branches and flowers on the branches, water the plants to keep the soil from drying out. 

 

In two or more years the yellow fibrous root of the plant are ready for harvest to dry and process into dried chopped up pieces or shaved from the larger roots which are said to resemble a flat tongue depressor.  The roots have a sweet earthy flavor and can be made into teas or soups.  Be sure to read and follow directions carefully for processing the root.

 

Astragalus roots contain flavonoids and polysaccharides, amino acids and trace minerals.  The processed plant roots are said to support respiratory, kidney and liver functions, help with digestive health, stabilize blood sugar and help cope with stress by building a strong immune system.  There is a lot of information about the benefits of astragalus on-line which is advisable for you to read.  Astragalus is grown by herbalists and home gardeners in many temperate countries, including Belize.


In the event you are not a home herbalist that feels secure making any potion you can still enjoy the lovely blooming perennial plant that adds diversity to your garden.


Please note: Some varieties of astragalus are toxic to farm animals Astragalus membranceus is reportedly not toxic to livestock or humans and is safe as long as it is properly prepared. .