Growing herbs
Wednesday, February 22nd, 2012
Here’s a summer photo of one of our mixed herb beds with broccoli and wild petunias for neighbors. We grow several types of basil, two of oregano, lemon mint, sage, tarragon, rosemary, chives, garlic chives, chervil , comfrey, and a few others. We also have many wild herbs such as pineapple weed, bergamont, mint, Balm of Gilead poplar (locally called “bammy”), nettles, dandelion, wild ginger, and many more.
This photo was prompted by this question from Peg in Georgia:
My husband and I have about 1/3 acre, but we manage to grow all our own vegetables and I can, freeze, or dry them. My question is, do you grow your own herbs? (I know you probably do) If so, do you make your own teas, poultices, etc? If you do, could you please write about some of it in your blog.
Thank you,
Peg, in Georgia
Yes, we do grow nearly all of our own herbs. I tuck herbs into a whole lot of spots around the yard, usually with flowers or other vegetables as “room mates.” I dehydrate my herbs, besides using them fresh. Of course we use them in just about every recipe I cook, and yes, I have made teas, ointments, etc. from them as well as from other wild-foraged plants. One of my favorite ointments is one my grandfather used. I melt half a cup of rendered lard and add half a cup of Balm of Gilead poplar buds when they swell and are sticky in the spring. I heat this mixture for about 30 minutes on low heat, being careful not to heat the lard too much because of scorching and fire danger. Don’t leave it alone! Then strain off the buds and debris through cheesecloth while the lard is still hot. Pour into small jars with wide mouths and seal. This ointment is very good for cuts, chapping, etc. both on people and animals. It works very well for cut and chapped teats on milk cows and goats. — Jackie
