The Many Benefits Of Thyme Garden Herb
Thyme garden herb (Thymus vulgaris) is a perennial herb that can grow up to a height of about one foot. This plant is native to the Mediterranean and lives for more than two years. Thyme is typically used as a culinary herb. However, there is a variety of purposes that this plant serves in the medicinal and aromatic areas as well. Although there are many varieties of thyme, the more popular is “common thyme.” This type of thyme has a green-grayish color with woody stems growing up to 8 inches tall. During the summer, this plant produces beautiful pinkish/lilac colored flowers that some choose to harvest and use for ornamental purposes.
Thyme is cultivated best in areas with full sun and well-drained soil. This plant is typically planted in spring and can be grown by seeds, root divisions or cuttings with the quickest way being by root divisions. Thyme is almost self sufficient, requiring very minimal maintenance. Although this plant requires full sun, it can grow well inside as long as it is placed in a bright sunny area.
In the culinary field, thyme is the principle ingredient in many cuisines. This herb is widely used in Caribbean, Italian, Greek, Persian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Syrian and Turkish cuisines to flavor soups, veggies, stews, eggs, and meats. As I have said before, growing your own fresh herbs and being able to use them on demand is a simple yet luxurious pleasure that Mother Nature has to offer. Who doesn’t want to be able to pick fresh herbs from their very own plant that they cultivated; and enjoy the full flavor and benefits from it verses buying dried or transported herbs that have only a portion of the plants potency? Not me.
In the medicinal area, thyme has been used to treat respiratory problems, fungus, and congestion. Furthermore, it has been used to medicate bandages and has been used as an antiseptic and principle ingredient in mouth wash.
Many herbal experts hold true to the fact that thyme can treat menstrual problems and relieve tooth aches. This herb is super nutritious containing more chromium and manganese than meat.
Here is an additional list of things that thyme has been used to treat:
- Fungus
- Bronchitis
- Sore Throats
- Inflammation
- Acute skin conditions
- Hair Loss
- Depression
- Athletes Foot
- Stress
- Muscle Cramps
The best time to harvest your thyme is mid day. This is when your plant is at its highest level of concentration of essential oils. What you want to do is cut about 5 inches of steam and let it air dry. Once it has thoroughly dried, pluck the leaves from the steam and place the leaves in a glass jar and use as needed.
Thyme is a wonderful herb to cultivate with many benefits both culinary and medicinally. Should you choose to cultivate this herb for either purpose it will be of great benefit and enjoyment. Finally, let’s not forget that this plant can also be used for its aromatic and ornamental purposes.
Here’s To Happy Thyme Growing!
Janet Suzalski
Disclaimer: This web site is for educational purposes and is not meant to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. I encourage you to discuss any health related issues you may be experiencing as well as any herbs and herbal remedies you are taking or considering with your health care practitioner.
Choosing Herbs For A Tea Herb Garden
Growing a tea herb garden can be a wonderful experience and an exciting hobby to have. Cultivating this type of garden will afford you the luxury of having fresh herbs at your fingertips that you will enjoy drinking all year round.
When creating your garden you want to make sure that wherever you choose to grow your garden that it is convenient for you, whether in a large, medium, or small container indoors or in your outdoor garden. When preparing the soil for your garden, you want to make sure that the soil is appropriate for that particular plant. So, be sure and pay close attention to the specific needs of each individual herb plant that you are growing.
There are many herbs that you can choose for making your herbal teas. Your choice would ultimately be dependent upon the flavor and aromas you like most. I have found the following to be some of the more popular drinking teas amongst myself and others.
Lavender- has a very faint soft taste. The buds of the lavender plant are used in teas. Lavender has been used for years to reduce stress and tension as well as other medicinal purposes. This plant enjoys well drained soil and performs best in full sun.
Peppermint- Peppermint has a mint flavor. The leaves of this plant are used in your drinking teas. Peppermint has been used for many years to treat stomach problems as well as used as a cleanser. Please be mindful that although peppermint grows very easily it can get out of control growing ramped all over your garden and yard. It is highly recommended to plant this herb in a pot to control its growth. Peppermint performs best in some-what shady and full sun areas.
Chamomile- Chamomile has an apple scent and flavor. The flowers of the chamomile plant are used in teas. This plant has been used for many years to relax the body and has also been used to help rid inflammation. Chamomile enjoys some-what shady and full sun areas.
Thyme- Thyme has a spicy taste so you will have to adjust the amount of leaves used when making your tea to suit your personal taste. This plant is used to soothe sore throats and ease stomach pains. The leaves and flowers if present are used to make tea. Thyme grows best in some-what shady and full sun areas.
Jasmine- Jasmine has a very delicate and soft flavor. The flowers of the jasmine plant are used to make your tea. This plant grows best in somewhat-shady to full sun areas.
Rosemary- Rosemary has a very soft, faint and delicate flavor. Rosemary has been used for many years to improve blood circulation and treat depression. The flowers of the rosemary plant are used to make your teas as well. This plant requires well-drained soil and prefers full sun and some light shade.
When making your teas you want to rub the leaves together so that the essential oils can be released from the plant. You then want to add 2-3 teaspoons of fresh leaves or flowers to (1) cup of hot water and let it steep for at least (5) five minutes to ensure that all flavors are released and you enjoy the full benefits of what your herbs have to offer. You may also elect to add a bit of honey to taste.
Having and maintaining a tea herb garden is one of my favorite hobbies. I often harvest my herb teas and package nicely to use as gifts. I also enjoy making herbal iced teas as well. Whatever your purpose is for growing this type of garden will be an everlasting and enjoyable experience.
Here’s To A Cup Of Tea!
Janet Suzalski
Cultivating A Potted Herb Garden
A potted herb garden is simply a garden that is grown in pots verses a patch of land in your yard. This type of garden can be extremely convenient and can make gardening much more simple in many ways. Not only can herbs grown in pots add culinary and medicinal benefits; it can also provide you with a pleasant fresh aromatic fragrance for your home that you can enjoy each day.
Cultivating an herb garden in pots has been the preferred method for many gardeners for years. Many enjoy the benefits of being able to move their plants to a different location whenever they choose too. Also, growing your herbs in containers will allow you to have more control over how your plants grow. For instance, there are some herbs like mint, if not contained in a pot will grow all over your garden and yard!
Although many herbs are compatible and can share the same pot, there are anomalies. So, be sure and pay close attention to the care tags when making a decision to plant a variety of herbs in the same pot. Usually, when planting a variety of herbs together you would plant the taller plants in the middle of the pot and the smaller ones around the taller herbs. This same principle would apply if you have separate pots for each herb.
There are many types of pots and containers you can use when growing your garden. Personally, I’ve found that terra-cotta pots get the job done without a fuss; it provides great drainage that is needed for your plants to grow and thrive properly.
When growing your herbs in pots ensure that your herbs have enough space to grow comfortably without being overcrowded. Some herbs become very large once they are mature so be careful when planning to ensure that you are grouping your herbs, choosing your pots, pot types and sizes with this in mind. After deciding on a pot or container you will need to cover the bottom quarter of the pot/container with some Styrofoam pellets, rocks or gravels to assist in the drainage process.
Although you can choose to cultivate what your heart desires, some of the most common herbs that are grown in pots are as follows:
- Aloe
- Caraway
- Chamomile
- Cilantro
- Echinacea
- Sage
- Hyssop
- Parsley
- Basil
- Catnip
- Chives
- Dill
- Fennel
- Garlic
- Garlic
- Mint
- Thyme
Even though most herbs do not require a lot of maintenance it is still very essential to establish good care methods for your plants across the board, following the rules of the care tags to a “T”. Just like your plants are not immune to attracting insect, they too, can rot, get mold and fungus. With this said, you want to make certain that you do not over-water. In fact, the best method of preventing this is to water in the early morning hours. Always remove any dead leaves, give your plants lots of love and your herbs will reach its full potential and everyone is sure to be happy.
Janet Suzalski
Designing An Herb Garden That’s Right For You
Designing an herb garden can be an exciting project if thought through appropriately. Herb garden designs can be structured to your individual style or specific needs, some may choose to develop a formal or informal garden the choice is yours.
Although the size of your gardens design can be as large as you like, keep in mind that there is not a lot of space required to develop your herb garden. When considering a design for your garden you can choose to design a formal or informal herb garden. Most informal herb gardens are designed in rectangular, square, circle shapes, and some just have a mind of their own, growing ramped wherever or however they like.
Before you begin to design your herb garden it is important to keep in mind for what and how the herbs will be used. For example, If you have a culinary or kitchen garden it should be in an area where it can receive anywhere from four to six hours of sunlight and should be placed near the home so that you can quickly and easily access your herbs at will.
When designing an informal garden a lot less planning and strategizing is involved verses designing a formal herb garden. When designing your informal herb garden, to make it easier for you, you may choose to group plants together by plant type (annuals biennials, and perennials), you may also choose to group plants together that require the same amount of water, soil, sunlight or shade. Furthermore, you may choose to organize your garden by culinary herbs, medicinal, or aromatic herbs. Some people choose to design according to flowers, specific colors, foliage (height, colors and varieties), plant size, etc. It is totally up to the designer’s individual preference. Remember, since this is an informal garden you can place and group things as organized or chaotic as you like as long as you understand it that’s what will matter.
Should you elect to go with a more formal design then more planning will be involved. The more popular formal herb garden designs are typically shaped in knots, some layered in spirals. The goal of this type of garden is to have patterns with a focal point.
When mapping out a design for this type of garden you will need to think about the shape(s), the focal point, groupings and what herbs will go where and color groupings. If you are considering a larger garden design you may want to consider having brickwork; if this is the case, what herbs will you grow along that path and what will its height be.
These are some important things that will need to be thought out when considering a formal herb garden.
Be creative when designing your garden this is the beauty and excitement of having one. Have fun with your designing, use an array of plant sizes and textures, use contrasting colors, have fun with choosing accessories and focal points for your garden. An important note to remember is to have no inhibitions, let your creative self surface and design that herb garden that you never imagined.
Happy Designing!
Janet Suzalski
The Many Benefits And Uses Of Growing Medicinal Herbs
If you have an interest in alternative or natural healing then you may have considered growing medicinal herbs. These types of herbs have been used for thousands and thousands of years to treat all types of ailments that come to mind. In fact, medicinal herbs in many countries have been used as the sole method of healing for centuries.
Growing these types of herbs has huge benefits; for instance, you can opt to make your own herbal compresses, extracts, herbal vinegars, decoctions, infusions, ointments, oils, syrups, powders, sits baths, teas, poultices, tinctures, etc. I have acquaintances that have started businesses manufacturing and selling herbs and herbal remedies as their sole source of income, they have turned what they love doing into a sustainable system that supports their daily lives.
Although you can cultivate your own medicinal garden made specific to your style, there are also herbs that grow wild that can also be harvested and used. The medicinal properties of herbs are typically derived from a plant or tree’s root, bark, leaves, flowers and seeds. The best time to harvest your herbs is when the plant has fully bloomed, in dry weather and preferably just after dew in the early morning hours.
The following is a brief list of ailments and the associated herbs that have been used to treat these conditions.
Acne
Herbs: Echinacea, Dandelion, Alfalfa
Arthritis
Herbs: Parsley Tea, Chaparral Leaves, Alfalfa Leaves
Asthma
Herbs: Echinacea, Licorice, Parsley Leaf, Anise, Angelica
Bad Breath
Herbs: Peppermint, Spearmint, Anise, Fennel, Cloves
Bladder Infection
Herbs: Burdock Root, Rose Hips,
Dandelion Tea
Bronchitis
Herbs: Echinacea, Fenugreek, slippery Elm Bark, Eucalyptus
Chronic Fatigue
Herbs: Cayenne, Ginko Biloba, Gotu Kola,
Circulatory Problems
Herbs: Rose Hips, Wormwood, Hyssop, Ginkgo Biloba, Goldenseal
Colds
Herbs: Echinacea, Ginger, Pau d’ Arco, Peppermint
Constipation
Herbs: Flaxseed, Senna Leaf, Cascara Sagrada, Comfrey
Depression
Herbs: Saint-John’s-Wort leaf , Rosemary, Chamomile
Headache
Herbs: Lavender, Feverfew, Goldenseal Root, Mint, Rosemary
High Cholesterol
Herbs: Cayenne, Goldenseal, Kelp
Infections
Herbs: Echinacea, Eucalyptus, Garlic
Influenza
Herbs: Echinacea, Ginger, Pau d’ Arco,
Insomnia
Herbs: Catnip, Hops, Skullcap, Passion flower
Kidney Stones
Herbs: Ginkgo Biloba, Goldenrod, Catnip
Increase Milk Production
Herbs: Alfalfa, Blessed Thistle, Fennel, Nettle Leaf, Raspberry
Ulcers
Herbs: Catnip, Chamomile, Sage, Slippery Elm, Goldenseal
Healing with herbs has become the number one choice of healing amongst many families world wide. Choosing to grow herbs that have healing properties can be and exciting journey. The luxury of being able to pluck some lavender or rosemary to fix that annoying headache is just one of the simple pleasures that Mother Nature has to offer.
I personally use herbs and herbal remedies as an alternative to conventional medication. The impact that it has had on my life and the lives of others is absolutely amazing. If you are a novice at growing medicinal herbs I encourage you to feed your ambition with as much knowledge on this subject as possible before making your own remedies. The reason for this is that certain herbs are not to be mixed or taken when experiencing certain conditions within the body; also, pregnant or lactating mothers are to avoid certain herbs as well. This web site is designed to educate and provide you with information related to cultivating your own herbs.
Cheers!
Janet Suzalski
Disclaimer: This web site is for educational purposes and is not meant to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. I encourage you to discuss any health related issues you may be experiencing as well as any herbs and herbal remedies you are taking or considering with your health care practitioner.
Choosing Different Types Of Herbs For Growing
There are many types of herbs for growing. One thing is for sure they are plentiful! Some people enjoy growing specific types of herbs whereas some may find enjoyment in growing a large variety of herbs. Many novice gardeners I find typically start gardening with a specific herb genre in mind; be it culinary, medicinal, aromatic or ornamental herbs in which we will discuss moving forward.
Herbs can grow in different ways, some grow from stems, seeds or divisions. I personally love to plant seeds and watch the life cycles of my plants from beginning to end.
Culinary Herbs are used for cooking and are a chef’s best and most pleasurable asset. Culinary herbs can put a nice kick to any dish including but not limited to Asian, Mexican, African, American, Indian, & Cuban dishes. Whatever your favorite cuisine is, when you begin to grow your herbs you can categorize your culinary herb in groups by (Asian Mexican, American, Salsa, etc). It is always a good idea to become familiar with how your plant looks, taste and smell; and if you really want to get savvy, know them by their scientific or Latin name. The following are some images of culinary herbs full bloom:
Sage
Basil:
Oregano:
Thyme:
Dill:
Medicinal herbs were the first herbs I started growing. I have always loved the organic elements of life and healing all bodily ailments naturally with herbs from the earth. Medicinal herbs have been used for thousands of years to cure all types of ailments. The following are some images of medicinal herbs you may choose to grow:
Echinacea:
Chamomile:
Lavender:
Then we have herbs that some use specifically for aromatic or ornamental purposes. You can use an array of herbs for this purpose it is totally up to you and your personal preference. I will have to say that experimenting with aromatic herbs can be a very fun and exciting hobby. Many herb plants produce bright vibrant colors that when combined appropriately can accentuate ones room wonderfully. Blends such as hyssop, geranium, chamomile, lavender and lemon balm makes for a beautiful blend and also creates a wonderful aroma for the home. I often times use this combination as a house warming or holiday gift for my friends and family!
When choosing your herbs for growing it is important to be mindful of the possibility of pests and how to control them. Organic controls can be found at most garden centers. These controls include insecticidal oils and insecticidal soaps. If your preference is to stay away from organic controls you can opt to planting specific herbs together to repel damaging insects. For instance, if you have really bad ants you could plant mints and wormwood together. If you have really bad gnats and mosquitoes then you can plant Lavender, Lemon Balm, Basil, Mints, Mugwort and Lemon Thyme together; also, Coriander is really good at warding off spider mites. So, there are many combinations of herbs that you can choose to plant along side each other to keep your garden pest free without having to use traditional chemicals or even organic pest controls.
Whichever herbs you choose to grow be sure you understand your herbs specific needs and cater to those needs to a “T”. This way, you are sure to have a successful home garden that will continuously provide you with some of the most wholesome and simple pleasures that nature has to offer.
Janet Suzalski
Starting A Garden Using Herb Garden Kits
If you have interest in cultivating your own herbs but lack the know-how then this article is for you. This information is designed for anyone who has had a desire to grow their own herbs but is not quite sure how to get started. Some questions that you may have could range from wanting to know what type of soil is needed, how much water and sunlight is needed, or, maybe just general care related questions.
If you have a desire to get started right away with little hassle my suggestion would be to start with herb garden kits, as they come with all the items you need to get started right away; thus eliminating any guessing, confusion or uncertainties as to what is needed for your garden to be a success.
Herb kits are all different but do contain very similar items to assist you in getting started quickly and efficiently. Some of the varying things you can expect to come with your kit are: instructional guide, seeds, recipes, planter and soil or pellets to grow your seeds with. As stated in the aforementioned, kits vary as well as the items that come along with the kits. Some kits even come with a dome which provides humidity and regulates the temperature to ensure your plants grow a healthy root system.
If you have specific herbs that you are interested in growing then herb garden kits would certainly be the way to go. Kits are well organized and come in some of the following categories:
- Culinary Herbs
- German Herbs
- Salsa Herbs
- International Herbs
- Italian Herbs
- Herbal Tea Herbs
- Medicinal Herbs
And of course many, many more…
The instruction that comes along with your kit takes all the guess work out of cultivating your herb garden. You will know how much water to use, when to water, what type of soil to use, pellets, and even the best place to place your garden to get sufficient lighting. Everything you will need for your specific kit will come with it along with the handy little step by step instructions on how to properly care for your plant. Again, herb kits are recommended for anyone who would like to get a quick start at herb gardening or to learn the basics, and then of course as time progresses you will begin to pick up additional skills; at this point you’ll be on your way to expert gardener.
Growing your herbs indoors in a kit has many benefits and can be very convenient. Having fresh herbs at my fingertips while cooking is one of the best pleasures of growing my herbs indoors. I don’t have to trot outside to pick from my garden, nor do I have to worry about the winter weather conditions as the temperature in the home is typically very conducive for my plants to thrive in all year round. Plus, kits take up very little space; they are great if you have a small home with little room or an apartment. You can place your kit in your kitchen window, counter tops or in a corner just as long as it receives a proper and balanced amount of sunlight.
When you start out growing your herbs in kits it is a fail proof way to go if you are a newbie or an expert at gardening. So, go ahead and give it a try. I’m almost sure you will make this a part of your ongoing gardening regime, even if you have an outside garden!
Janet Suzalski
Things You Should Know When Growing Herbs In Pots
Herbs can be cultivated many different ways. Some of those ways include pots, raised gardens, containers, out door gardens, etc. In this article we will talk about growing herbs in pots. Using this method to grow herbs can be a simple yet fun experience for a novice or experienced gardener.
When making a decision to grow your herbs in pots, you want to first decide what herbs you’d like to grow and what size pot you would like to use for those herbs. Over the years I have found that culinary herbs are mostly grown in pots. When making a decision on what size pots to use for your herbs you can really get creative here; for instance, all large pots can be grouped together, small pots together, do a mix match grouping, i.e., one small, one large, etc. If you have a bit of artsy, artsy in your blood, you can paint the names of the herbs being grown on the pots; or, even to take it a step further by creating some decorative designs on them! This is great stuff and your herbs will love that extra attention too!
One key component to remember when deciding whether to grow your herb in pots or directly into the ground is that mint would be an exception and in my opinion should always always be grown in a pot to stay contained. Mint grows plentiful and will completely take over a garden in growth. I learned this the hard way!
After you have gotten all of your preliminaries figured out, next you will want to make sure that you are soiling your pots properly. A key to remember is that all herbs do not like to be soiled the same way. So for optimal result you will want to understand what type of soil your herb prefer. For a bit more direction on specific herbs, their soiling preference, and how to create proper drainage for your pots, please refer to my guide on “Herb Gardening Secrets.”
Next, you’ll want to place your herbs in an area that will give them sufficient sunlight but not burn them up of course. Let’s talk about lighting a bit. Some people prefer to use florescent lighting when growing their herbs indoors, while others prefer to use what is called grow lamps. If you choose to go a more natural route, you will want to either place your herbs indoors or outdoors in a conducive area so that your herbs can reach their maximum growth potential. What I mean by conducive is, if you are growing your herbs in the middle of summer you do not want your herbs exposed to direct sunlight when its temperature is at its highest degree, this is a sure recipe for a burned plant. You will have to move them around a bit, when the sun is at its highest temperature; move your plants in a more shaded area. If you are growing exclusively inside, you will want to grow them in your kitchen or in a room where the window is facing south or west to ensure sufficient lighting.
The best benefit of growing your own herbs is that it is simple to do, inexpensive, and you have the comfort in knowing that it has not traveled across the world to get to the store that you are purchasing it from; thus, saving our environment. Store bought herbs could never ever compare to homegrown herbs in taste or freshness. The taste of homegrown herbs always has and will be better overall and in particular in flavor and freshness.
Wishing You The Best Of Success!
Janet Suzalski
Types Of Herb Garden Plants
If you have an interest in cultivating herb garden plants, it is important to be familiar with the life cycles of these herbs as well as the specific care it demands. Like other plant types, herbs come in annuals, biennials and perennials. The purpose of this article is to provide you with a general understanding of herb types and their uses.
Let’s start with annuals. Most annual herbs will need to be planted each year because they cannot survive freezing temperatures. Biennials take a total of two years to complete a life cycle; during their first season they form leaves, in their second season flowers and seeds. Perennials have an ongoing life cycle, thus returning each year.
The four main areas in which herbs are associated with are medicinal herbs, culinary herbs, aromatic herbs, and ornamental herbs.
Medicinal herbs have been used for thousands of years to treat all types of ailments imaginable. While most herbs are very safe for ones body and well being, there are some anomalies; this is why it is important to have a clear understanding of the herbs you are using and its benefits.
Some of the more popular medicinal plants that help in maintaining a healthy immune system are Echinacea and chamomile. Then you have medicinal herbs that assist with an array of things such as providing support for the digestive system, nervous system, allergies, thyroids, and many types of infections. There are also medicinal herbs you can cultivate to assist in maintaining a healthy functioning of the brain, kidney, liver, spleen, etc. There are medicinal herbs to literally assist in treating any part of your body that is out of balance.
Culinary herbs are a gardeners best asset. Culinary herbs can be used to flavor and spice up your favorite dish and can also be used for drinking teas. Here are a few culinary herbs that are a staple in my garden; basil, parsley, oregano, cayenne, thyme, sage, mint, dill, coriander and garlic.
Aromatic herbs can be the perfect alternative to commercial aromatics that are filled with toxic chemicals. Aromatic herbs can be used as a sanitizer for the home, potpourri, burning oils, perfumes, insect repellent, soaps, and can even be used to train your pets with. Yes, aromatic herbs can be used to train your pets!
Ornamental herbs are primarily used for their beauty, as many herbs blossom producing bright and vibrant colored flowers. Take for instance, roman chamomile, anise hyssop, rosemary, lavender and oregano; you can take all or a few of these herbs once bloomed, and it will make for a beautiful ornamental blend. I personally like to use them during holidays, for special occasions and to give as a gift to my friends and family.
Herbs serve an array of purposes. Whichever type of herbs you choose to grow, ensure that you are aware of any special care it demands, the benefits, uses and life cycles. Having a clear understanding of your herb plants will allow you to have a deeper connection with your garden thus producing healthy plants that you will enjoy.
Happy Harvesting!
Janet Suzalski
Starting A Home Herb Garden
Cultivating an herb garden can be a great experience and bring one a deep sense of accomplishment. Having a home herb garden allows you to connect with nature in an organic way. Many have often expressed that when nurturing their garden it brings them “peace and serenity on earth.” Herbs can be grown indoors, outdoors, in a container, cup or a small pot to name a few. There are really no limits to how your garden can be grown; it is essentially left up to the gardener’s imagination. The best part is that it is not a difficult task. In fact, it can be a therapeutic and fulfilling experience for an experienced or novice gardener.
One might ask, “where do I begin or how do I start my very own herb garden?” Well, first you want to ask yourself a few simple questions, for instance, what type of herbs you want to grow and for what purpose. Many people grow herbs for medicinal, culinary or aromatic purposes. If the aforementioned are some of your initial questions, and in particular for a novice gardener, it is important to know the life cycles as well as the type of herbs you have option to begin with. Like other plants, herbs come in, annuals, biennials and perennials. Let’s start with annuals, the life cycles of annuals are from seed to seed or one complete growing season. Some herbs in the annual family include: basil, cayenne, chamomile, dill, garlic, coriander and borage
Next, we have biennials, hence the prefix (bi), these herbs go two whole years before completing a life cycle. A few herbs in the biennial family are: parsley, evening primrose, caraway and angelica.
The next type would be perennials; perennials have a continuous life cycle and will return each year. Some herbs in the perennial family are: mint, sage, thyme, lavender and Echinacea.
I find that people enjoy all types of herb and for many different reasons. Imagine cultivating your very own culinary herbs and being able to spice up your favorite dish with oregano, parsley, mint or garlic straight from your own garden. You may also be inclined to growing your own medicinal herbs. Medicinal herbs have been used for thousands of years to organically treat just about any ailment that you can imagine. An herb such as chamomile has been used to treat inflammation and reduce stress. Echinacea is used to strengthen the immune system and then you have garlic which is used to fight infection.
Aromatic herbs are really fun to work with too! If you are into making your own perfumes or oils, aromatic herbs can be a gardener’s playground. I personally love the blend of lavender and rosemary. Some use aromatic herbs as potpourri for the home, some use it to freshen linen. I tell you, there is so very much that you can do with herbs, I get excited just sharing the many options and ideas available. I have shared some very general and basic ideas here, but there are literally hundred of things you can do with herbs. Whichever route you choose to take in cultivating your very own herb garden will be one of the best, most fulfilling experiences of a lifetime.
Here’s To Your Gardening Success!
Janet Suzalski
