Calinadder is an almost forgotten ancient oil plant. It has no relation to linseed, also known as flax. In the past, however, it was sown as an weed for flax. Hence the naming. But this plant has its own value and it is still largely in its original state. There are several things that speak in favor of cultivation.
How can I grow camelina successfully?
To successfully grow camelina, sow seeds in March-April in sunny, well-drained locations. Make sure the rows are 20 cm apart and the seeds are 5 cm apart. The water requirement is low and fertilization is not necessary. Harvest takes place about 4 months later.
Calinix in private gardens
In commercial cultivation, camelina is an important source of oil, for example for the cosmetics industry. In private gardens it is mainly grown as green manure. The young, tender leaves are also edible. Sprouts can be grown from seeds but can also be used for other purposes in the kitchen.
It is an annual plant that is propagated by seeds.
Tip
Calinix suppresses weeds in beds. For example, it can be sown in combination with peas, which it provides support with its stems.
Location and soil
The camelina prefers sunny locations. The soil can preferably be sandy, deeply loosened and therefore permeable. In addition, the plant is undemanding.
The optimal sowing time
If you want to harvest the seeds from camelina, you have to sow the plant between March and April. As a pure green manure, this cruciferous variety can be sown until October. It tolerates mild temperatures below zero.
Sowing camelina
The seeds can be planted individually in small bed areas in the garden. This ensures even and optimal distribution. So no grain is wasted:
- Row spacing: 20 cm
- Distance between two seeds: 5 cm
- Sowing depth: 1 cm
You need about 70 grams of seeds per 100 square meters of sowing area.
Watering and fertilizing
Calinix is a weak feeder and therefore does not require fertilization during the growing season. Its water requirements are also low, so it can cope well with irregular rainfall.
Diseases and pests
Downy mildew and gray mold may occasionally occur. Snails avoid it and there is little risk of damage from pests.
Harvest
Early sown camelina usually blooms in June. The camelina can be harvested about 4 months after sowing. Young shoots for cooking can be picked earlier. As a green fertilizer, it simply remains in the bed and is worked into the soil.
Tip
You can set aside ripe seeds for re-sowing. They remain viable for about six years.
