Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) is a hardy perennial legume that makes a fantastic addition to meadows, wildlife gardens, and pastureland. Renowned for its nitrogen-fixing abilities and nectar-rich pink flower spikes, sainfoin will give your garden border a biodiversity boost.
If you’re considering growing sainfoin from seed, here are some things to note:
How many grams of sainfoin seeds should I buy?
Our 1g packets of sainfoin seeds contain approximately 70 seeds which can be sown into a seedling tray or directly into a border or pot. For larger areas, we recommend sowing at a rate of 2g/sqm and increasing to 4g/sqm for densely populated growth.
How do I grow sainfoin seeds?
To grow sainfoin seeds, sow them directly onto well-drained soil in spring or autumn and ensure the area gets plenty of sunlight. Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7–14 days.
Where is the best place to plant sainfoin seeds?
Sainfoin seeds thrive in full sun and well-drained soils. They are especially suited to areas with low rainfall and poor fertility, as sainfoin is drought-tolerant and thrives in nutrient-poor conditions.
When should I plant sainfoin seeds?
The best times to plant sainfoin seeds are in spring, once the soil has warmed, or in autumn for natural cold stratification. Both seasons yield excellent germination rates when conditions are right.
Are sainfoin flowers attractive to wildlife?
Yes, sainfoin flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies. The pink flower spikes provide an abundant and long-lasting source of nectar, making sainfoin an excellent choice for pollinator-friendly gardens and wildflower meadows.
How tall do plants grown from sainfoin seeds grow?
Plants grown from sainfoin seeds typically reach a height of 30–90 cm (12–36 inches), similar to coreopsis, sedum, and catmint.
Can I add sainfoin to my garden border?
Sainfoin pairs beautifully with other garden plants in a border, particularly those that thrive in sunny, well-drained conditions and complement its pink, spiked flowers such as lavender, salvias, echinacea, and Mexican feather grass (Stipa tenuissima).
Does sainfoin improve soil health?
Yes, sainfoin is a legume that fixes nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Its deep roots also improve soil structure and prevent erosion.
Will sainfoin plants spread naturally?
Sainfoin plants can self-seed in suitable conditions, helping to maintain their presence in meadows or pastures over time. However, they are not invasive and can be easily managed.
Is sainfoin drought-tolerant?
Yes, sainfoin is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for areas with low rainfall or poor soil conditions.
Latin name: Onobrychis viciifolia
Flowers: June to August
Height: Up to 60cm
When to sow sainfoin seeds: Can be sown under glass from March but best sown direct outdoors from April. Press the seeds into the soil but do not cover. Keep the area moist until the plants are established.
Sow with: Wild carrot, cornflower, and kidney vetch.
Lifecycle: Hardy perennial.
Soil requirement: A drought-resistant wildflower it thrives in gravel gardens and on stony brash and chalky ground.
Natural habitat: Grassland and bare ground.
Also known as: Cock’s head, fodder grass, holy clover.
Did you know? Sainfoin is a traditional forage plant for horses.
Is sainfoin safe for animals? Yes.
