Tis Thyme for Herbs

May is here and as the ol' saying goes, May flowers should be bursting forth! Of course, here in Northern Florida, flowering plants - including those providing massive amounts of pollen that drive my sinuses nuts - bloom year round.

When most of us visualize flowers, we fail to envision the beautiful blossoms bestowed by herbs - the pinkish-purple tops of echinacea, the lavender of...lavender, pinks, whites, yellows - WOW! Lightly pass the leaves of herbs between your fingers then sniff...amazing. These wonderful plants enchant the senses and contribute to everyday health. Even if one thinks that using herbs for health benefits is "bogus", the doubter would have to concede that dishes bounding with an influx of herbs is more flavorful. Can you imagine Italian food without oregano or basil? Or, Mexican food without cilantro? Unless you live in an area where spices solely consist of salt and pepper...food without herbs in the family kitchen...is bland.

So, what if you're interested in herbs that are commonly used for cooking and aren't sure how to grow, store, and/or use them? What if you want to learn more about these culinary delights from an organic point of view? For a book, try Herbal Rhythms: Deciphering Herbal Codes by Jane Lytle. This book discusses fourteen herbs. These herbs are some of those most commonly purchased and used by the average gardener/cook in this country. The historical, medicinal and culinary attributes, optimal growth conditions, harvesting, recipes, and projects for children and adults alike are provided for each herb discussed. Included in each chapter are various different hints and suggestions regarding cultivation, storage, and utilization that pertain not only to the herb being discussed, but to all herbs.
The fourteen herbs discussed are: Basil, Coriander/Cilantro, Dill, Ginger, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Licorice, Mint, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, Tarragon, and Thyme.

For other general herb information: Let your eyes wander to the left and follow the Le Noire Chat Herbal link (or click here).

Happy Growing!