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Grow your own !
By John | January 27, 2008
Herbs of old are being rediscovered by modern science for fragrances and curing illness. Our ancestors knew the uses for almost every wild non-poisonous plant. Some of these plants were needed in the garden more as they never had refrigerator or the modern preservatives. These herbs served in many purposes like dyeing homespun fabrics, storing with linen to prevent insects and adding fragrance, preserving or enhancing the tastes of food.
Herb Gardens were almost an essential feature of most homes. Sunny corners of the house that were readily accessible were planted with seasoning herbs. Wild crafted Herbs that grew wild in the country side were also grown in the garden. Gardeners are not rediscovering the value of these herbs and are taking pleasure in producing their own herbs. Herbs can be classified according to their use: culinary, aromatic, ornamental and medical.
Culinary herbs
These are the most useful to herb gardeners. Garnishes and flavouring is where they are used more. A common list is Parsley, Sage, Chives, Thyme , Marjoram, Mint and Basil.
Aromatic Herbs
This sweet smelling foliage has been used for producing perfumes. Flowers are mostly used but even plant parts are used. Dried herbs retain their aroma for longer periods. Some aromatic herbs are Mint, Marjoram, Lavender, Rosemary and Basil.
Ornamental Herbs
These herbs have bright flower and foliage. Variegated Thyme, Chives, Lavender as well as Valerian with crimson blossoms and borage and chicory with blue flowers are ornamental herbs.
Medicinal Herbs
Some plants are thought to have healing powers. Modern science has researched and recognized some herbs as true healers while others have been said to be over rated in healing powers. Some of these herbs must be consumed carefully or it could result in dangerous consequences.
Gardeners Classification
Annuals, Biennials, and perennials are so called because of the nature of blooming and life span of the herb.
- Annuals bloom one season and then die. These herbs include Anise, Basil, Chervil, Coriander, Dill, etc.
- Biennials live for two seasons. They bloom only in the second season. These include Caraway, Parsley, etc.
- Perennials bloom each season. These include Chives, Fennel, Marjoram, Mint, Tarragon, Thyme, etc.
Gardeners Tips for you
- If you intend to begin an herb garden then your guide to herbs for you to plant are Rosemary, Sage, Sweet Basil, Dill, Mint, Marjoram, Parsley and Chives . You could choose any other herb to grow in your garden but know whether they are annuals, biennials or perennials.
- Herbs do not grow in wet soil. Good drainage is a must. Improve drainage by placing a 5 inch layer of crushed stones 15 to 18 inches below the top soil.
- Mix the soil with compost and sand to lighten the texture and increase fertility. Do not use fertilizers as highly fertile soils produce excess foliage with poor flavour.
- Almost all herbs can be grown from seeds. If possible sow seeds in shallow boxes in late winter and transplant these seedlings outdoors in spring. Anise, coriander, dill and fennel can be sown directly. Biennials should be sown in late spring directly into the ground. You could obtain an indoor herb garden kit and start of growing herbs indoors as well.
- Cutting and division is a useful method in propagating certain herbs.
- Harvesting in the form of picking the leaves is to be done when the plant has enough foliage to maintain growth. Harvest leaves before the flower buds open. This is when the flavour is at the peak . Pick seed heads when the colour changes from green to brown or grey.
- Very few diseases or insects attack herbs. Rust infects mints and aphids may attack Caraway, Fennel, Dill and Anise.
- You could refrigerate or even dry herbs for later use.
Topics: Eating Outdoors |
