How to Plant Blue Cohosh

Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum) is a woodland herb, which has been used in herbal and traditional medicines as a uterine stimulant and tonic for period pain and to induce labor, according to "The Complete Guide To Medicinal Herbs" by Penelope Ody. Blue cohosh is typically grown by root transplant and needs a shady, moist environment to thrive. The plant rarely grows above 2 1/2 feet tall and has clusters of small yellow flowers in spring that develop into bright blue berries. Other names for blue cohosh include papoose root, blue ginseng and squaw root.

Compost or manure
Garden hoe
Blue cohosh root
Water
Mulch

Instructions

- 1
  Dig 3 to 4 inches of compost or aged manure into the topsoil in a shady location in the garden. In between a small copse of trees is ideal, to simulate a woodland environment.
- 2
  Dig a hole large enough to fit the blue cohosh root plus 2 1/2 inches depth over the root. Mid-spring is a good time to plant, so that the young plant has time to establish before its first winter.
- 3
  Plant the root in the hole, and cover it gently with soil. Don't compact the soil over the root.
- 4
  Water the plant well, then mulch the area around the root with 2 to 3 inches of mulch. Wood chips, leaves or straw are good mulches for use with blue cohosh.

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