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Herbs

Victorian Herb Gardens: A Guide to History, Benefits, and How to Grow

by Gregory September 3, 2021

written by Gregory 6 minutes read

What is a Victorian Herb Garden?

In the 1800s, during the reign of Queen Victoria, herb gardens were all the rage. They were filled with fragrant flowers and herbs that had special meanings and uses. Today, many people still enjoy growing Victorian herb gardens to preserve this historical tradition and to enjoy the beauty and benefits of these plants.

Why Grow a Victorian Herb Garden?

There are many reasons to grow a Victorian herb garden:

Historical Significance: Victorian herb gardens are a reminder of a bygone era, when people relied on herbs for food, medicine, and other purposes.
Beauty and Fragrance: Victorian herbs are known for their beautiful flowers and fragrant leaves, which can add a touch of charm to any garden.
Medicinal and Culinary Uses: Many Victorian herbs have medicinal and culinary uses, making them a valuable addition to any home apothecary or kitchen.
Educational Value: Growing a Victorian herb garden can be a great way to learn about history, botany, and the importance of plants in our lives.

Herbs and Their Meanings

In Victorian times, each herb was believed to have a special meaning or symbolism. Some of the most popular Victorian herbs and their meanings include:

Bee Balm: Sweet virtue
Catmint: Deep love
Chamomile: Comfort
Dill: Good spirits
Lavender: Devotion and loyalty
Lemon Balm: Sympathy
Rosemary: Remembrance

Medicinal and Culinary Uses of Herbs

Victorian herbs were used for a wide variety of medicinal and culinary purposes. For example:

Bee Balm: Used to treat colds and headaches, and to add a citrus flavor to teas.
Catmint: Used as a sleep aid and to soothe colicky infants.
Chamomile: Used as a sedative and to add a calming scent to potpourris.
Dill: Believed to boost the intestinal tract and induce sleep.
Lavender: Used to freshen clothing and bed linens, and to relieve stomach pain and dandruff.
Lemon Balm: Used for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, and to create a fragrant potpourri.
Rosemary: Applied externally to relieve stomach pain, rinse away dandruff, and dress wounds.

How to Create a Victorian Herb Garden

Creating a Victorian herb garden is relatively easy. Here are a few tips:

Choose the Right Herbs: Select herbs that have special meanings or uses that you find appealing.
Design and Layout: Victorian herb gardens were often formal in design, with symmetrical beds and paths. You can create a similar look by planting your herbs in raised beds or containers.
Care and Maintenance: Victorian herbs are generally easy to care for. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Water regularly and fertilize monthly during the growing season.

Benefits of Growing a Victorian Herb Garden

There are many benefits to growing a Victorian herb garden, including:

Beauty and Fragrance: Victorian herbs are known for their beautiful flowers and fragrant leaves, which can add a touch of charm to any garden.
Historical Significance: Victorian herb gardens are a reminder of a bygone era, when people relied on herbs for food, medicine, and other purposes.
Educational Value: Growing a Victorian herb garden can be a great way to learn about history, botany, and the importance of plants in our lives.
Medicinal and Culinary Uses: Many Victorian herbs have medicinal and culinary uses, making them a valuable addition to any home apothecary or kitchen.

Using Victorian Herbs for Medicinal and Culinary Purposes

Victorian herbs can be used for a variety of medicinal and culinary purposes. For example:

Bee Balm: The leaves and flowers can be used to make a tea that can help to relieve colds and headaches.
Catmint: The leaves can be used to make a tea that can help to promote sleep and soothe colicky infants.
Chamomile: The flowers can be used to make a tea that can help to promote relaxation and sleep.
Dill: The seeds can be used to flavor pickles and other foods.
Lavender: The flowers can be used to make a tea that can help to relieve stress and anxiety.
Lemon Balm: The leaves can be used to make a tea that can help to boost the immune system and improve digestion.
Rosemary: The leaves can be used to flavor meats, vegetables, and other foods.

Creating a Victorian Herb Garden as a Historical Preservation

Many botanical gardens and historical houses grow Victorian herb gardens as a way to preserve this gardening heritage. These gardens often contain features such as ornate iron fencing, gazing balls, and fountains. The herbs, however, remain the focal point.

The Most Common Victorian Herbs and Their Uses

Some of the most common Victorian herbs and their uses include:

Bee Balm: Used to treat colds and headaches, and to add a citrus flavor to teas.
Catmint: Used as a sleep aid and to soothe colicky infants.
Chamomile: Used as a sedative and to add a calming scent to potpourris.
Dill: Believed to boost the intestinal tract and induce sleep.
Lavender: Used to freshen clothing and bed linens, and to relieve stomach pain and dandruff.
Lemon Balm: Used for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, and to create a fragrant potpourri.
Rosemary: Applied externally to relieve stomach pain, rinse away dandruff, and dress wounds.

Growing a Victorian herb garden is a great way to learn about history, botany, and the importance of plants in our lives. It is also a beautiful and fragrant addition to any garden.

Indoor Gardening

Create a Thriving Desk Herb Garden: A Comprehensive Guide for the Office

by Gregory July 6, 2021

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Creating a Desk Herb Garden: A Guide for the Office

Introduction

Adding a spice or herb garden to your workspace can bring a touch of nature indoors and create a more inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you create and care for your own desk herb garden.

Choosing the Right Location

Even in small spaces, you can find a spot for a few plants. If you have a window, you can create a small garden on the sill. If not, you can place your herbs in a corner with an adequate light source. For even smaller spaces, consider desktop herbs. Just make sure there’s enough light, either from a nearby window or artificial grow lights.

Selecting Your Herbs

Most herbs will thrive in office conditions as long as they have light and water. Choose plants that you enjoy, especially those with scents that appeal to you. Consider your coworkers, who may not appreciate strong aromas like lavender.

Some great options for desk herbs include:

Parsley
Chives
Basil
Thyme
Mint

Using a Desk Herb Garden Kit

Potted office herbs are easy to care for, but you may also want to consider using a kit. Kits provide everything you need in one box, including a compact container and often grow lights. Check online for garden kits that match the size of your space.

Caring for Your Herb Garden

Water your herbs regularly, especially when the soil feels dry to the touch. Use a tray or saucer to catch excess water and protect your desk. If light is an issue, you can use grow lights to supplement natural light.

Harvesting Your Herbs

When your herbs are mature, you can start harvesting them. Use scissors to snip off leaves or stems as needed. Be sure to harvest regularly to encourage new growth.

Additional Tips

Choose containers that fit your space and have drainage holes.
Use a well-draining potting mix.
Fertilize your herbs monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
Protect your herbs from pests by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
If you’re going on vacation, ask a coworker to water your herbs.

Benefits of a Desk Herb Garden

Having a desk herb garden offers numerous benefits:

Adds freshness and greenery to your workspace
Provides pleasant aromas
Offers tasty seasonings for your lunches and snacks
Creates a calmer and more peaceful work environment
Brings nature indoors
Improves air quality
Boosts your mood
Encourages healthy eating habits

Conclusion

Creating and caring for a desk herb garden is a simple and rewarding way to enhance your workspace. With a little planning and effort, you can enjoy the benefits of fresh herbs right at your fingertips.

Herbs

Amethyst Basil: A Guide to Growing and Using the Unique Purple Herb

by Gregory June 6, 2021

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

All About Amethyst Basil: A Unique and Flavorful Herb

Introduction

Basil is a beloved herb known for its distinctive flavor and aroma. Among the many varieties of basil, Amethyst Basil stands out with its vibrant purple leaves. This article will delve into the world of Amethyst Basil, exploring its characteristics, growing requirements, and culinary uses.

What is Amethyst Basil?

Amethyst Basil is a cultivar of sweet basil that boasts a unique purple coloration. Its flavor is said to be similar to regular sweet basil, but its striking appearance makes it a popular choice for salads and fresh applications.

Growing Amethyst Basil

Soil and Sunlight

Amethyst Basil thrives in well-draining soil that receives plenty of sunlight. In warm climates, seeds can be sown directly into the ground. In cooler regions, starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost is recommended.

Spacing and Hardiness

Amethyst Basil plants grow to a height of 16-20 inches and should be spaced 15-18 inches apart. They are hardy to USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown year-round. In colder climates, they can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter.

Tips for Growing

Water regularly, especially during hot weather.
Fertilize every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier plants.
Harvest leaves as needed, taking only a few at a time to avoid damaging the plant.

Culinary Uses of Amethyst Basil

Fresh Applications

Amethyst Basil’s beautiful color makes it ideal for use in salads, bruschetta, and other fresh dishes. Its flavor complements almost any type of meat and pairs well with heat-loving vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, and peppers.

Heat Considerations

Unlike regular basil, Amethyst Basil does not retain its color well when cooked or pureed. Therefore, it is best used fresh to maintain its vibrant appearance.

Drying and Storing

Amethyst Basil leaves can be dried and stored in a cool, dark location for later use. They can also be frozen in airtight containers for longer-term storage.

Companion Planting and Pest Repellent Properties

Amethyst Basil is an excellent companion plant for warm-season vegetables. Its presence can help repel pests and improve the growth of neighboring plants.

Conclusion

Amethyst Basil is a unique and versatile herb that adds flavor and beauty to any garden. Its ease of cultivation and wide range of culinary applications make it a popular choice for home gardeners and chefs alike.

Herbs

Herbs That Love the Sun: A Guide to Growing Herbs in Full Sun

by Donna February 21, 2021

written by Donna 5 minutes read

Herbs That Thrive in the Sun

Introduction

If you have a sunny spot in your garden, you’re in luck! Many herbs love to soak up the sun’s rays. In fact, some herbs even need full sun to grow their best. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of herbs that like full sun and provide tips on how to grow them successfully.

Herbs That Like Full Sun

Some herbs can tolerate partial shade, but they’ll really thrive in full sun. These herbs include:

Basil
Chamomile
Chives
Cilantro
Lemon balm
Mint
Parsley
Rosemary
Summer savory

Herbs That Need Full Sun

For the most part, herbs that need full sun are happiest when they get at least six hours of sunlight per day. These herbs include:

Dill
Fennel
Lavender

Benefits of Growing Herbs in Full Sun

There are many benefits to growing herbs in full sun. Some of the benefits include:

Increased growth: Herbs that get plenty of sunlight will grow faster and produce more leaves and flowers.
Improved flavor: Sunlight helps herbs develop their full flavor.
Reduced disease: Herbs that are grown in full sun are less likely to develop diseases.

Tips for Growing Herbs in Full Sun

Here are a few tips for growing herbs in full sun:

Choose the right location: When choosing a location for your herbs, make sure it gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Plant at the right time: The best time to plant herbs is in the spring or fall.
Water regularly: Herbs need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize regularly: Herbs benefit from regular fertilization.
Harvest regularly: Harvesting herbs regularly will encourage them to produce more leaves and flowers.

How to Choose the Right Herbs for Full Sun

When choosing herbs for full sun, consider the following factors:

Your climate: Some herbs are better suited to certain climates than others.
Your soil conditions: Herbs have different soil preferences.
Your personal preferences: Choose herbs that you enjoy using in cooking or other applications.

When to Plant Herbs in Full Sun

The best time to plant herbs in full sun is in the spring or fall. This gives the herbs time to establish themselves before the hot summer weather arrives.

How to Care for Herbs in Full Sun

Herbs that are grown in full sun need regular watering, fertilizing, and harvesting.

Watering: Herbs need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizing: Herbs benefit from regular fertilization. Fertilize your herbs every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Harvesting: Harvesting herbs regularly will encourage them to produce more leaves and flowers. Harvest herbs by cutting the stems just above a leaf node.

Recipes Using Herbs Grown in Full Sun

There are many delicious recipes that you can make using herbs grown in full sun. Here are a few ideas:

Basil pesto: Basil pesto is a classic Italian sauce that is made with fresh basil, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts.
Chamomile tea: Chamomile tea is a calming and relaxing tea that is made with dried chamomile flowers.
Cilantro lime rice: Cilantro lime rice is a flavorful side dish that is made with rice, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
Dill pickles: Dill pickles are a classic summer treat that is made with cucumbers, dill, and vinegar.
Fennel salad: Fennel salad is a refreshing and flavorful salad that is made with fennel, orange segments, and olive oil.
Lavender lemonade: Lavender lemonade is a refreshing and unique lemonade that is made with lavender flowers, lemon juice, and sugar.
Mint julep: A mint julep is a classic Southern cocktail that is made with mint, bourbon, and sugar.
Parsley salad: Parsley salad is a simple and refreshing salad that is made with parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Rosemary chicken: Rosemary chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is made with chicken, rosemary, and olive oil.
Summer savory stuffing: Summer savory stuffing is a flavorful and aromatic stuffing that is made with summer savory, bread crumbs, and vegetables.

Gardening Techniques

Companion Planting with Herbs: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory October 9, 2020

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Companion Planting with Herbs: A Beginner’s Guide

Introduction

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves planting different plants together to benefit each other. Herbs are a great choice for companion planting because they can provide a variety of benefits, such as pest control, attracting beneficial insects, and improving flavor.

Benefits of Companion Planting with Herbs

There are many benefits to companion planting with herbs, including:

Pest control: Some herbs, such as basil and garlic, can help to repel pests.
Attracting beneficial insects: Other herbs, such as chamomile and dill, can attract beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, which can help to pollinate your plants and control pests.
Improving flavor: Some herbs, such as tarragon and sage, can help to improve the flavor of other plants.

Choosing Companion Plants

When choosing companion plants for your herb garden, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Heavy feeders: Avoid planting heavy feeders, such as tomatoes and peppers, next to each other, as they will compete for nutrients.
Strong smelling/tasting plants: Strong smelling/tasting plants, such as mint and rosemary, can change the flavors and scents of other herbs or vegetables.
Beneficial relationships: Consider the beneficial relationships between different herbs. For example, basil is a good companion for tomatoes, as it can help to improve their flavor and repel pests.

Herb Companion Planting List

Here is a list of common herbs and their companion plants:

Basil: Tomatoes, peppers, asparagus, oregano
Chamomile: Cabbage, onion, cucumber
Garlic: Most plants
Mint: Tomatoes, most plants (avoid combining mint varieties)
Chives: Carrots, tomatoes, dill, most herbs
Tarragon: Eggplant
Cilantro: Spinach, caraway, anise, dill
Sage: Rosemary
Dill: Onions, corn, lettuce, cucumbers
Rosemary: Beans, peppers, broccoli, cabbage, sage
Catnip: Pumpkins, beets, squash, hyssop
Lavender: Cauliflower

Fennel: A Special Case

Fennel is a unique herb that does not get along well with most other plants. It is best planted in an area all by itself, as its strong aroma can repel other plants. However, fennel can still provide benefits to your garden, as it repels fleas and aphids and attracts beneficial pollinators.

Tips for Successful Companion Planting

Here are a few tips for successful companion planting with herbs:

Plan your garden carefully: Consider the different needs of your plants and choose companion plants that will benefit each other.
Start small: Don’t try to plant too many companion plants at once. Start with a few simple pairings and add more as you gain experience.
Be patient: It takes time for companion planting to show results. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate benefits.

Conclusion

Companion planting with herbs is a great way to improve the health and productivity of your garden. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and beneficial herb garden that will provide you with years of enjoyment.

Gardening

Capers: The Tiny Buds That Pack a Flavorful Punch

by Gregory August 31, 2020

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Capers: The Tiny Buds with a Big Flavor

Capers are tiny flower buds that are pickled or brined in salt. They have a strong, distinct flavor that is often compared to mustard and black pepper. Capers are used in a variety of culinary dishes, including sauces, pizzas, fish, and salads.

What are Capers?

Capers are the unopened flower buds of the caper bush, a shrub-like perennial that is native to the Mediterranean region. The caper bush has thorny branches and white flowers with purple stamens. The flower buds are picked and pickled or brined in salt to preserve their flavor.

How are Capers Used?

Capers are used in a variety of culinary dishes to add a salty, briny flavor. They are often used in sauces, pizzas, fish, and salads. Capers can also be used as a garnish or as an ingredient in compound butter or mayonnaise.

What are the Different Sizes of Capers?

Capers are graded according to their size. The smallest capers are called nonpareils, and the largest capers are called thirds. The size of the capers affects their flavor and texture. Nonpareils are the most prized and expensive capers because they have a more delicate flavor and texture.

What is the Flavor of Capers?

Capers have a strong, distinct flavor that is often compared to mustard and black pepper. The flavor of capers comes from the presence of mustard oil, which is released when the plant tissue is crushed.

What are the Health Benefits of Capers?

Capers are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

How to Grow Capers

Capers can be grown from seed or from cuttings. If you are growing capers from seed, it is important to find a seed source that is reliable. Caper seeds are very tiny and germinate readily, but in low percentiles. Dried seeds are more difficult to germinate and should be soaked for one day in warm water, then wrapped in a damp towel, sealed in a jar, and refrigerated for two to three months. Post refrigeration, re-soak seeds overnight and then plant at a depth of 0.5 inches (1 cm) in a well-drained medium.

If you are growing capers from cuttings, it is important to collect cuttings from healthy plants. Cuttings should be taken in February, March, or April and should be about 6 to 10 inches long. Cuttings should be planted in a loose, well-draining soil medium with a heat source at the base.

How to Care for Caper Plants

Caper plants are relatively easy to care for. They require a steady stream of strong sunlight and an arid climate. Caper plants are drought tolerant and can tolerate summer temperatures of over 105 degrees F. (41 degrees C.).

Harvesting Capers

Capers are harvested when the flower buds are still immature. The buds are picked by hand and then pickled or brined in salt. The size of the capers affects their flavor and texture. Nonpareils are the most prized and expensive capers because they have a more delicate flavor and texture.

Grading Capers

Culinary Uses of Capers

Conclusion

Capers are a versatile ingredient that can be used to add a salty, briny flavor to a variety of dishes. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they are also a good source of antioxidants. Capers are easy to grow and care for, and they can be harvested and used fresh or preserved.

Pruning

Summer Pruning: A Step-by-Step Guide for a Thriving Garden

by Gregory July 10, 2020

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Summer Pruning for a Thriving Garden

Pruning in summer is an essential gardening task that helps control plant growth, promotes flowering, and keeps your garden looking its best. Here’s a guide to pruning different types of plants in the summer months.

Fruit Trees

Pruning fruit trees in summer encourages fruit production by removing vigorous new growth. For apples and pears, trim new shoots on lateral branches back to one leaf once the stem becomes woody. For plums, prune awkwardly placed stems back to the base to avoid silver leaf disease.

Fruit Bushes

Summer pruning helps control the size and encourage fruiting of fruit bushes. After harvesting blackcurrants, remove old stems and a quarter of stems at least two years old. For gooseberries, trim new growth back to two or three leaves from the base and remove congested branches to improve air circulation.

Herbs

Shrubby herbs can become leggy if not pruned regularly. Cut back lavender after flowering to maintain a dense shape. For sage and thyme, trim shoot tips to keep the plants bushy and full of new growth.

Roses

Summer is the ideal time to prune once-flowering roses, such as old-fashioned roses and gallicas. Cut back main stems by a third to reduce the risk of wind damage and trim sideshoots back by two thirds.

Shrubs

Shrubs that flower on old wood should be pruned after flowering in summer to allow new growth to mature for next year’s blooms. For deutzia, simply cut off each flowered stem at the base. For weigela, kerria, and philadelphus, cut back flowered stems by a third to encourage new growth and prevent legginess.

Perennials

Some perennials can be cut back in summer to encourage new growth and maintain a fresh appearance. For hardy geraniums, cut the entire plant back to just above ground level. Delphiniums and Alchemilla mollis can also be cut back to the ground to promote new foliage and flowers.

Climbers

Vigorous climbers can benefit from summer pruning to control growth and promote flowering. For early-flowering honeysuckles, cut back flowered shoots by one third. For summer jasmine, prune flowered shoots back to a strong shoot low on the plant. Wisteria should have its new growth trimmed back to five or six leaves from the base in July or August to encourage flower bud formation.

By following these summer pruning tips, you can keep your plants healthy, encourage flowering, and maintain a beautiful garden throughout the growing season.

Cocktails

Festive Garden Cocktails: Impress Your Guests with Homemade Holiday Drinks

by Donna June 26, 2020

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Festive Garden Cocktails: A Holiday Treat

Introduction

The holiday season is a time for celebrating with friends and family. What better way to do that than with delicious cocktails made with fresh ingredients from your own garden? In this article, we’ll share some easy and festive cocktail recipes that are sure to impress your guests.

Festive Cocktail Garden Plants

Many herbs, fruits, and vegetables can be used to make delicious cocktails. Here are a few of our favorites:

Herbs: Lavender, rosemary, basil, mint, sage
Fruits: Apples, oranges, lemons, berries, cranberries, pumpkins
Vegetables: Celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, rhubarb

Great Holiday Cocktail Ideas from the Garden

Here are a few of our favorite holiday cocktail recipes that use fresh garden ingredients:

Homegrown Wassail: A warm and spicy cider drink made with apples, oranges, lemons, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and cinnamon sticks.
Old-Fashioned Sloe Gin: A tart and tangy gin cocktail made with sloe berries, sugar, and gin.
Tasty Fruit Shrub: A refreshing and flavorful drink made with fruit juice, vinegar, and rum or brandy.

More Ways to Use Your Garden Bounty in Holiday Cocktails

In addition to the recipes above, there are many other ways to use your garden bounty in holiday cocktails. Here are a few ideas:

Garnish your cocktails with fresh herbs, edible flowers, or candied citrus peels.
Make floral ice cubes by freezing edible flowers in water.
Swap ice for snow in your cocktails for a festive touch.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Garden Cocktails

Here are a few tips for making the most of your garden cocktails:

Use fresh, ripe ingredients. This will give your cocktails the best flavor.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are no rules when it comes to making cocktails, so feel free to mix and match ingredients until you find a combination you love.
Have fun! Making and drinking cocktails should be a fun and enjoyable experience.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy these festive garden cocktail recipes. With a little creativity, you can use your garden bounty to create delicious and unique cocktails that will impress your guests and make your holiday celebrations even more special.

Flower Gardening

Violets: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing, Using, and Enjoying the Cheerful Little Flowers

by Donna March 25, 2020

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Violets: A Guide to the Cheerful Little Flowers

Violets are one of the cheeriest little flowers to grace the landscape. They come in a variety of colors, including purple, blue, white, and yellow. Violets are also known for their sweet fragrance.

There are around 400 types of violet plants in the genus Viola. The many violet plant varieties guarantee there is a sweet little Viola perfect for almost any gardening need.

True Violets vs. African Violets

True violets are different from African violets, which are natives of east Africa. Our native violets are indigenous to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and may bloom from spring well into summer, depending upon the species.

Violet Plant Varieties

Bedding Violets

Bedding violets are your hybridized violets and pansies. In late winter, they are the most commonly found in nurseries and thrive in the cool of early spring and even late winter in temperate and warm regions.

Sweet Violets

Sweet violets are descended from Viola odorata, while bedding violets are deliberate hybrids of Viola cornuta and pansies.

Wild Violets

Wild violets are less common but may be found at native nurseries since 60 species are native to North America. Every region will have slightly different offerings but there are some mainstays in the Viola community.

How to Choose the Best Violets for Your Garden

When choosing violets for your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Bloom time: Violets bloom at different times of the year, so be sure to choose varieties that will bloom when you want them to.
Sun exposure: Violets prefer to grow in partial shade, but some varieties can tolerate full sun or full shade.
Soil type: Violets prefer to grow in well-drained soil.
Size: Violets come in a variety of sizes, so be sure to choose varieties that are the right size for your garden.

How to Grow Violets

Violets are easy to grow from seed or cuttings. They can be planted in the spring or fall.

To grow violets from seed, sow the seeds in a well-drained seed starting mix. Keep the seeds moist and warm, and they will germinate in about 10-14 days.

To grow violets from cuttings, take a cutting from a healthy violet plant. Remove the bottom leaves from the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone. Then, plant the cutting in a well-drained potting mix. Keep the cutting moist and warm, and it will root in about 4-6 weeks.

Violet Care

Violets are relatively low-maintenance plants. They require regular watering and fertilizing. Violets should be fertilized every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Violets are also susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests are aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. The most common diseases are powdery mildew and botrytis.

The Many Uses of Violets

Violets have been used for centuries for their medicinal and culinary properties. The flowers, leaves, and roots of violets can be used to make teas, tinctures, and other remedies. Violets are also edible and can be added to salads, soups, and other dishes.

In addition to their medicinal and culinary uses, violets are also popular ornamental plants. They are often used in gardens, borders, and containers. Violets are also a popular choice for wedding bouquets and other floral arrangements.

Conclusion

Violets are a versatile and beautiful flower that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you are growing them in your garden, using them in your kitchen, or simply admiring their beauty, violets are sure to bring you joy.

Gardening

Catnip: A Versatile Herb for Cats and Beyond | Uses, Benefits, and Growing Guide

by Donna February 24, 2020

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Catnip: A Versatile Herb for Cats and Beyond

What is Catnip?

Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is an herb that belongs to the mint family. It’s a common plant that can be easily grown in gardens or found growing wild. Catnip is famous for its irresistible effect on cats, but it also has a wide range of other uses.

Catnip for Cats

About two-thirds of cats are attracted to catnip, exhibiting playful behaviors like licking, rubbing, rolling, and drooling. Catnip can be used as a treat or a way to enrich your cat’s environment. You can grow it indoors in a container or outdoors in a garden bed. If using a container, make sure it’s large and heavy enough to prevent your cat from tipping it over.

Other Uses for Catnip

Insect Repellent: Catnip contains a compound called nepatalactone, which has insecticidal properties. You can use catnip as a natural repellent against mosquitoes, spiders, ticks, cockroaches, and other pests in your home. You can crush the leaves and sprinkle them around areas where pests tend to gather, or you can make a catnip spray by boiling catnip leaves in water and spraying it around your home.

Companion Planting: Catnip can be planted as a companion plant in vegetable gardens to deter certain pests. Studies have shown that planting catnip between rows of collard greens can reduce damage from flea beetles. Catnip may also repel rabbits and deer.

Medicinal Properties: Catnip has some potential medicinal properties for humans. A tea made from dried catnip leaves and flowers has been traditionally used to relieve stomach upset, fever, insomnia, and stress. It’s also a calming agent and can help relieve digestive issues in children.

Culinary Uses: Catnip belongs to the mint family and has a similar flavor to mint. You can use it in any recipe where you would normally use mint. Catnip adds a slightly different taste and can be used in teas, salads, and other dishes.

Growing Catnip

Catnip is a hardy plant that is easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. You can start catnip seeds indoors or outdoors, and the plants will typically grow to be about 2-3 feet tall. Catnip is a perennial, meaning it will come back year after year.

Harvesting Catnip

You can harvest catnip leaves and flowers throughout the growing season. The best time to harvest is just before the flowers bloom, when the leaves are at their most potent. To harvest, simply cut the stems a few inches above the ground. You can dry the leaves and flowers for later use or use them fresh.

Conclusion

Catnip is a versatile herb with a wide range of uses. It’s a great addition to any garden and can provide both benefits for your cats and your family.

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