one of the best all around garden helpers is Russian comfrey( I believe I have blocking 14 variety) it gets kinda big;hard to get rid of if you want to move it; but it can go in almost any setting, and it is a powerhouse for compost heaps, plant mulches, etc. it "mines" soil for minerals. it is high in nitrogen. this is the easiest first step for growing your own fertility I can think of.
But I have found other uses. (it is now not recommended for internal use for humans but is a powerful medicinal herb)
I take a big handful of leaves and put them in a cut off milk jug, etc. add water-let sit in the sun for 2-3 days. you need to cut this tea by adding a few tablespoons to your watering can;it enhances growth especially in younger plants; bugs don;t seem to like it. there is an immediate response to it. it's great stuff.
Oh-it will have a bit of smell. no worries. also, don;t just throw the used leaves out-put them in the compost pile!
If you also grow nettles ( pick with gloves!) you have added fire for your compost or mulching for beds that need it. Try both on potatoes.
My goats love both and I try to treat them to a bit of both herbs from time to time.
This is the year I can finally split the comfrey plants again.they easily take hold-those deep roots just want to grow. nettles-i swear if you drop a few new-growth ends on soil, they will root.I'll put some down in my attempted permaculture (yams-good-daylilies good turnips failed skirret looks great)and later, may start some around the new apple trees.
Feed your plants often. you are using them to help other plants-you can throw the compost and manure at them! they love it!
Find a spot where you just can;t garden veggies and try the comfrey ( mine came from Richter's in Canada. great service)
and while you are at it, remember dock and dandelions can go in the compost too. other great mineral miners.
or as my saying of the year goes-plant deliberate weeds!
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