How to Winterize Moth Mullein

Overview

Moth mullein (Verbascum blattaria) grows throughout the United States and Canada and is typically seen in pastures, open fields and meadows. It is a biennial plant that produces a basal rosette the first year and a beautiful flowering stalk the second. Moth mullein grows wild and it can be grown from seeds in home gardens. In order to reap a garden full of flowers, you may need to protect--or winterize--your moth mulleins. The simple process can make all the difference in giving first-year plants the best chance of surviving into the next year, when they will bloom.

Step 1

Wait until the fall to begin protecting your moth mullein for the winter months. Just before the first frost is ideal.

Step 2

Add 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch, such as wood chips or bark, around the base of the plant.

Step 3

Keep the mulch about 1/2 to 1 inch from the crown of the plant. The crown is the part of the stem where the roots meet and is typically right at soil level.