Günsel is a genus of plants from the mint family (Lamiaceae) that is very widespread in Europe. The plants, which usually bloom blue or blue-violet and grow up to 30 centimeters high, are ideal as ornamental plants in the garden, but are also traditionally used as medicinal plants. A well-known representative is the creeping gunsel (Ajuga reptans), a very vigorous ground cover.
How do I care for Günsel in the garden?
Günsel prefers sunny to partially shaded locations with moderately moist, nutrient-rich soil. Add some compost when planting and fertilize in spring if necessary. Water when dry, no pruning necessary but control spread. Günsel is hardy and self-propagating.
Which location does Günsel prefer?
Günsel prefers sunny to slightly partially shaded locations with moderately moist, nutrient-rich and, if possible, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Should you water Günsel?
In very dry summers you can water the Günsel, otherwise additional watering is not necessary.
Do you have to fertilize Günsel? If yes, when and with what?
Fertilization is basically unnecessary. You can only enrich the soil with a little compost when planting. In locations with rather nutrient-poor soils, you can also supply the Günsel with horn shavings (€12.00 on Amazon) or nettle manure in the spring.
How to cut Günsel?
Pruning the Günsel is also not necessary, but you should prevent the fast-growing plant from spreading in good time.
What is the best way to combat rampant gunsel?
This can be done by regular mowing - simply with a lawnmower or grass trimmer - but also by tearing out or cutting off the root runners. Since the plant also sows itself very reliably, it makes sense to mow it down after flowering - i.e. before fruit and thus seed formation. Unfortunately, root barriers do not have the desired effect because the runners form above ground.
Which diseases/pests threaten Günsel? What can be done about it?
Günsel is very robust, but is quite susceptible to powdery mildew in very humid summers and in unfavorable locations (especially in the shade). This usually doesn't bother the plant much and is just a visual problem. If the white coating bothers you, you can use a spray to combat it - but then the Günsel can no longer be used for medicinal or kitchen purposes. There are also various home remedies, with a milk-water mixture proving particularly effective.
What is the best way to propagate Günsel?
Günsel reproduces itself very well via seeds and runners, but division is also possible.
Is Günsel hardy?
As a native plant, Günsel is very hardy and does not require any additional winter protection.
Tip
Günsel is a very important feeding pasture for bees and butterflies.
