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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
If you’re looking for a great addition to garden beds or borders, or even something to add to a meadow garden, consider planting the easy-growing self heal plant (Prunella vulgaris).
About Common Self Heal Plant
Prunella vulgaris plant is commonly known as the self heal herb. It has been used medicinally for centuries. In fact, the entire plant, which is edible, can be used both internally and externally to treat a number of health complaints and wounds. The plant’s most common use is for the treatment of cold sores.
Prunella is a perennial plant native to Europe but can also be found growing in parts of Asia and the United States. Depending on the region grown, prunella plant blooms from June through August with lavender or white flowers. The plants are usually cut during summer flowering and used (fresh or dried) in making herbal tinctures, infusions, and ointments.
Growing Prunella Plant
While this easy-care plant is adaptable enough to grow nearly anywhere, prunella performs best in areas that mimic its native environment—woodland edges and meadows. They require cool to mild temperatures and sun to partial shade. Plants may be divided or sown in spring. Amend the soil with organic matter and plant prunella about 4 to 6 inches deep and space 6 to 9 inches apart. Seed should be lightly covered with soil and can be thinned as needed once seedlings emerge. For those starting seeds indoors, do so about 10 weeks prior to spring planting. Since prunella is related to mint and prone to vigorous spreading, some form of containment (such as bottomless pots) may be necessary in flower beds or borders. Mature plants reach about 1 to 2 feet high, at which time they will fall over and attach new roots to the ground. Therefore, you’ll want to make sure your pot is not situated flush with the ground. To prevent reseeding, trim back prunella plants after blooming has ceased.
Prunella Plant Care
Regular deadheading also maintains the plant’s overall appearance and encourages additional blooming. Once the growing season is complete, prune the plant back to ground level.
About Common Self Heal Plant
Prunella vulgaris plant is commonly known as the self heal herb. It has been used medicinally for centuries. In fact, the entire plant, which is edible, can be used both internally and externally to treat a number of health complaints and wounds. The plant’s most common use is for the treatment of cold sores.
Prunella is a perennial plant native to Europe but can also be found growing in parts of Asia and the United States. Depending on the region grown, prunella plant blooms from June through August with lavender or white flowers. The plants are usually cut during summer flowering and used (fresh or dried) in making herbal tinctures, infusions, and ointments.
Growing Prunella Plant
While this easy-care plant is adaptable enough to grow nearly anywhere, prunella performs best in areas that mimic its native environment—woodland edges and meadows. They require cool to mild temperatures and sun to partial shade. Plants may be divided or sown in spring. Amend the soil with organic matter and plant prunella about 4 to 6 inches deep and space 6 to 9 inches apart. Seed should be lightly covered with soil and can be thinned as needed once seedlings emerge. For those starting seeds indoors, do so about 10 weeks prior to spring planting. Since prunella is related to mint and prone to vigorous spreading, some form of containment (such as bottomless pots) may be necessary in flower beds or borders. Mature plants reach about 1 to 2 feet high, at which time they will fall over and attach new roots to the ground. Therefore, you’ll want to make sure your pot is not situated flush with the ground. To prevent reseeding, trim back prunella plants after blooming has ceased.
Prunella Plant Care
Regular deadheading also maintains the plant’s overall appearance and encourages additional blooming. Once the growing season is complete, prune the plant back to ground level.
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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
You’ve probably heard of the citronella plant. In fact, you may even have one sitting out on the patio right now. This well loved plant is essentially prized for its citrusy scent, which is thought to hold mosquito-repelling properties. But does this so-called mosquito repellent plant really work? Keep reading to find out more about this interesting plant, including information on growing and caring for mosquito plants.
Citronella Plant Info
This plant is commonly found under a number of names, such as citronella plant, mosquito plant geranium, citrosa geranium and Pelargonium citrosum. Though many of its names leave the impression that it contains citronella, which is a common ingredient in insect repellent, the plant is actually a variety of scented geranium that simply produces a citronella-like scent when the leaves are crushed. The mosquito plant geranium came about from taking specific genes of two other plants – Chinese citronella grass and African geranium.
So the big question still remains. Do citronella plants really repel mosquitoes? Because the plant releases its smell when touched, it is thought to work best as a repellent when the leaves are crushed and rubbed on the skin as mosquitoes are supposed to be offended by its citronella scent. However, research has shown that this mosquito repellent plant is actually ineffective. As someone growing and caring for mosquito plants myself, I can attest to this as well. While it might be pretty and smells good, the mosquitoes still keep coming. Thank goodness for bug zappers!
A true citronella plant closely resembles lemongrass, while this imposter is larger with foliage that resembles parsley leaves. It also produces lavender blooms in the summer.
How to Care for Citronella
Growing and caring for mosquito plants is easy. And even though it may not be an actual mosquito repellent plant, it makes an ideal plant both indoors and out. Hardy year round in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9-11, in other climates, the plant can be grown outdoors during the summer, but should be taken inside before the first frost. These plants prefer at least six hours of sunlight every day whether it is planted outside or indoors near a window but can also tolerate some partial shade. They are tolerable of a wide variety of soil as long as it’s well draining.
When growing mosquito plant geranium indoors, keep it watered and fertilize occasionally with an all purpose plant food. Outside the plant is fairly drought tolerant. Citronella plant typically grows anywhere between 2 and 4 feet high and pruning or pinching is recommended to encourage the new foliage to bush out.
Citronella Plant Info
This plant is commonly found under a number of names, such as citronella plant, mosquito plant geranium, citrosa geranium and Pelargonium citrosum. Though many of its names leave the impression that it contains citronella, which is a common ingredient in insect repellent, the plant is actually a variety of scented geranium that simply produces a citronella-like scent when the leaves are crushed. The mosquito plant geranium came about from taking specific genes of two other plants – Chinese citronella grass and African geranium.
So the big question still remains. Do citronella plants really repel mosquitoes? Because the plant releases its smell when touched, it is thought to work best as a repellent when the leaves are crushed and rubbed on the skin as mosquitoes are supposed to be offended by its citronella scent. However, research has shown that this mosquito repellent plant is actually ineffective. As someone growing and caring for mosquito plants myself, I can attest to this as well. While it might be pretty and smells good, the mosquitoes still keep coming. Thank goodness for bug zappers!
A true citronella plant closely resembles lemongrass, while this imposter is larger with foliage that resembles parsley leaves. It also produces lavender blooms in the summer.
How to Care for Citronella
Growing and caring for mosquito plants is easy. And even though it may not be an actual mosquito repellent plant, it makes an ideal plant both indoors and out. Hardy year round in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9-11, in other climates, the plant can be grown outdoors during the summer, but should be taken inside before the first frost. These plants prefer at least six hours of sunlight every day whether it is planted outside or indoors near a window but can also tolerate some partial shade. They are tolerable of a wide variety of soil as long as it’s well draining.
When growing mosquito plant geranium indoors, keep it watered and fertilize occasionally with an all purpose plant food. Outside the plant is fairly drought tolerant. Citronella plant typically grows anywhere between 2 and 4 feet high and pruning or pinching is recommended to encourage the new foliage to bush out.
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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
Santolina herb plants were introduced to the United States from the Mediterranean in 1952. Today, they are recognized as a naturalized plant in many areas of California. Also known as lavender cotton, Santolina herb plants are members of the sunflower/aster family (Asteraceae). So what is Santolina and how do you use Santolina in the garden landscape?
What is Santolina?
An herbaceous perennial suited to hot, dry summer and full sun, Santolina (S. chamaecyperissus) is indigent to areas of sandy, rocky infertile soils but will also do well in garden loam and even clay, provided it is well amended and well-drained.
These evergreen shrubs have either silvery grey or green leaves reminiscent of conifers. Santolina has a mounded, round and dense habit reaching only 2 feet high and wide with vibrant yellow ½-inch flowers perched on stems above the foliage, which are notably attractive in dried flower arrangements and wreaths. The silver foliage makes a nice contrast to other green tones of the garden and persists through the winter. It is a prominent specimen for xeriscapes and mixes well with other Mediterranean herbs such as lavender, thyme, sage, oregano, and rosemary.
Lovely in a mixed perennial border along with rockroses, Artemisia and buckwheat, growing Santolina has a virtual plethora of uses in the home landscape. Growing Santolina can even be trained into a low hedge. Give the plants plenty of room to spread or allow them to take over and create a massed ground cover. Santolina herb plants also have a fairly pungent aroma akin to camphor and resin mixed when the foliage is bruised. Perhaps this is why deer don’t seem to have a yen for it and leave it alone.
Santolina Plant Care
Plant your Santolina herb in areas of full sun through USDA zone 6 in almost any type of soil. Drought tolerant, Santolina herb requires minimal to moderate irrigation once established. Overwatering will likely kill the plant. Wet, humid weather will foster fungal development. Prune Santolina back drastically in the late winter or spring to keep it from splitting or dying out in the center of the plant. However, if this happens, other Santolina plant care indicates ease of propagation.
Simply take 3-4 inch cuttings in the fall, pot them and provide heat, then plant in the garden in summer. Or, seed can be sown under a cold frame in fall or spring. The herb will also begin to grow roots when a branch touches the soil (called layering), thereby creating a new Santolina. Besides over watering, the downfall of Santolina is its short life; about every five years or so (as lavender) the plant needs to be replaced. Luckily it is easy to propagate. Plants can also be divided in the spring or fall. Santolina herb plant is fairly pest and disease resistant, drought tolerant and deer resistant, and easy to propagate. Santolina herb plant is a must have specimen for the water-efficient garden or an excellent replacement when eliminating a lawn entirely.
What is Santolina?
An herbaceous perennial suited to hot, dry summer and full sun, Santolina (S. chamaecyperissus) is indigent to areas of sandy, rocky infertile soils but will also do well in garden loam and even clay, provided it is well amended and well-drained.
These evergreen shrubs have either silvery grey or green leaves reminiscent of conifers. Santolina has a mounded, round and dense habit reaching only 2 feet high and wide with vibrant yellow ½-inch flowers perched on stems above the foliage, which are notably attractive in dried flower arrangements and wreaths. The silver foliage makes a nice contrast to other green tones of the garden and persists through the winter. It is a prominent specimen for xeriscapes and mixes well with other Mediterranean herbs such as lavender, thyme, sage, oregano, and rosemary.
Lovely in a mixed perennial border along with rockroses, Artemisia and buckwheat, growing Santolina has a virtual plethora of uses in the home landscape. Growing Santolina can even be trained into a low hedge. Give the plants plenty of room to spread or allow them to take over and create a massed ground cover. Santolina herb plants also have a fairly pungent aroma akin to camphor and resin mixed when the foliage is bruised. Perhaps this is why deer don’t seem to have a yen for it and leave it alone.
Santolina Plant Care
Plant your Santolina herb in areas of full sun through USDA zone 6 in almost any type of soil. Drought tolerant, Santolina herb requires minimal to moderate irrigation once established. Overwatering will likely kill the plant. Wet, humid weather will foster fungal development. Prune Santolina back drastically in the late winter or spring to keep it from splitting or dying out in the center of the plant. However, if this happens, other Santolina plant care indicates ease of propagation.
Simply take 3-4 inch cuttings in the fall, pot them and provide heat, then plant in the garden in summer. Or, seed can be sown under a cold frame in fall or spring. The herb will also begin to grow roots when a branch touches the soil (called layering), thereby creating a new Santolina. Besides over watering, the downfall of Santolina is its short life; about every five years or so (as lavender) the plant needs to be replaced. Luckily it is easy to propagate. Plants can also be divided in the spring or fall. Santolina herb plant is fairly pest and disease resistant, drought tolerant and deer resistant, and easy to propagate. Santolina herb plant is a must have specimen for the water-efficient garden or an excellent replacement when eliminating a lawn entirely.
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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
The pineapple sage plant is found in gardens to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Salvia elegans is a perennial in USDA zones 8-11 and is often used as an annual in other places. The crushed plant leaves smell like pineapple, hence comes the common name of the pineapple sage plant. The easy care of pineapple sage is one more reason to have it in the garden.
Is Pineapple Sage Edible?
The fragrance may lead one to wonder is pineapple sage edible? Indeed it is. Leaves of the pineapple sage plant may be steeped for teas and the minty-tasting blossoms can be used as an attractive garnish for salads and deserts. Leaves are best used fresh. Pineapple sage flowers may also be used in jelly and jam concoctions, potpourri, and other uses limited only by the imagination. Pineapple sage has long been used as a medicinal herb with antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
How to Grow Pineapple Sage
Pineapple sage prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil that is consistently moist, although established plants will tolerate drought conditions. Pineapple sage is a semi-woody sub shrub that can get as tall as 4 feet with red flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. Pineapple sage grows rapidly in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Those in more Northern zones may plant in a protected location, mulch in winter and experience perennial performance from the pineapple sage plant.
The tubular shaped flowers of the pineapple sage plant are a favorite of hummingbirds, butterflies and bees. Include these in the butterfly garden or the herb garden or plant in other areas where fragrance is desired. Combine this plant in groupings, with other sages for a plethora of flying friends in the garden.
Is Pineapple Sage Edible?
The fragrance may lead one to wonder is pineapple sage edible? Indeed it is. Leaves of the pineapple sage plant may be steeped for teas and the minty-tasting blossoms can be used as an attractive garnish for salads and deserts. Leaves are best used fresh. Pineapple sage flowers may also be used in jelly and jam concoctions, potpourri, and other uses limited only by the imagination. Pineapple sage has long been used as a medicinal herb with antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
How to Grow Pineapple Sage
Pineapple sage prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil that is consistently moist, although established plants will tolerate drought conditions. Pineapple sage is a semi-woody sub shrub that can get as tall as 4 feet with red flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. Pineapple sage grows rapidly in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Those in more Northern zones may plant in a protected location, mulch in winter and experience perennial performance from the pineapple sage plant.
The tubular shaped flowers of the pineapple sage plant are a favorite of hummingbirds, butterflies and bees. Include these in the butterfly garden or the herb garden or plant in other areas where fragrance is desired. Combine this plant in groupings, with other sages for a plethora of flying friends in the garden.
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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
Clary sage plant (Salvia sclarea) has a history of use as a medicinal, flavoring agent and aromatic. The plant is an herb in the genus Salvia which encompasses all the sages. Salvia sclarea is primarily grown in the temperate areas of the world and is a short-lived herbaceous perennial or biennial. More commonly known as Cleareye or Eye bright, clary sage herb is easy to grow and adds an ornamental display of flowers to the herb garden.
Clary Sage Herb
Clary sage plant is native to the Mediterranean and parts of Europe. It is most commonly cultivated in Hungary, France and Russia. Both the leaves and flowers are used in flavoring and teas as well as aromatherapy applications.
The plant also yields an essential oil called clary oil or muscatel sage, which is used for topical afflictions and in aromatherapy applications. Growing clary sage for home use provides all these benefits and is safe for human consumption according the Purdue University.
How to Grow Clary Sage
Clary sage is a biennial that begins as a rosette in the first year and will grow a flower stalk the second year. It is a short-lived plant that will usually die after the second year, although in some climates it may persist weakly for one or two more seasons. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and produces purplish blue flower spikes from late spring into mid summer. Flowers are held in panicles which contain four to six blooms. Cultivators grow clary sage primarily for the flowers, which are dried or pressed for various uses. Growing clary sage can be accomplished down to USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 5. Clary sage plant grows and establishes quickly in full sun and well drained soils. Sage can be started from seed, cuttings or layered. The most important attribute for growing clary sage is drainage. Wet sites can rot the plant or severely curtail its growth. The plant will need supplemental irrigation until it is established but can provide its own moisture thereafter except in very arid zones.
Using Clary Sage in the Garden
Clary sage is deer resistant, which makes it ideal for the naturalized or meadow garden. The plant may spread by seed but volunteer seeding is usually minimal. The herb requires a chilling period of at least three months to produce flowers and is not a good performer in hot climates for this reason. Clary sage plant does well in an herb or pottage garden or mixed in a border of perennials. It attracts honeybees and other pollinators to the garden.
Varieties of Clary Sage Herb
Clary sage has two common cultivars. A variation called turkestanica is a 3-foot tall version of the herb with longer flower bracts and a more pronounced blue color. The cultivar ‘Vatican’ is a white flowering clary sage herb with the same cultivation requirements as the parent herb.
Clary Sage Herb
Clary sage plant is native to the Mediterranean and parts of Europe. It is most commonly cultivated in Hungary, France and Russia. Both the leaves and flowers are used in flavoring and teas as well as aromatherapy applications.
The plant also yields an essential oil called clary oil or muscatel sage, which is used for topical afflictions and in aromatherapy applications. Growing clary sage for home use provides all these benefits and is safe for human consumption according the Purdue University.
How to Grow Clary Sage
Clary sage is a biennial that begins as a rosette in the first year and will grow a flower stalk the second year. It is a short-lived plant that will usually die after the second year, although in some climates it may persist weakly for one or two more seasons. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and produces purplish blue flower spikes from late spring into mid summer. Flowers are held in panicles which contain four to six blooms. Cultivators grow clary sage primarily for the flowers, which are dried or pressed for various uses. Growing clary sage can be accomplished down to USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 5. Clary sage plant grows and establishes quickly in full sun and well drained soils. Sage can be started from seed, cuttings or layered. The most important attribute for growing clary sage is drainage. Wet sites can rot the plant or severely curtail its growth. The plant will need supplemental irrigation until it is established but can provide its own moisture thereafter except in very arid zones.
Using Clary Sage in the Garden
Clary sage is deer resistant, which makes it ideal for the naturalized or meadow garden. The plant may spread by seed but volunteer seeding is usually minimal. The herb requires a chilling period of at least three months to produce flowers and is not a good performer in hot climates for this reason. Clary sage plant does well in an herb or pottage garden or mixed in a border of perennials. It attracts honeybees and other pollinators to the garden.
Varieties of Clary Sage Herb
Clary sage has two common cultivars. A variation called turkestanica is a 3-foot tall version of the herb with longer flower bracts and a more pronounced blue color. The cultivar ‘Vatican’ is a white flowering clary sage herb with the same cultivation requirements as the parent herb.
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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
Tangerine sage plants (Salvia elegans) are hardy perennial herbs that grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 10. In cooler climates, the plant is grown as an annual. Highly ornamental and relatively speedy, growing tangerine sage couldn’t be easier, as long as you meet the plant’s basic growing conditions. Read on find out how to grow tangerine sage.
Tangerine Sage Plant Info
Tangerine sage, also known as pineapple sage, is a member of the mint family. This is a good time to mention that although not as wildly invasive as many of its mint cousins, tangerine sage can be somewhat aggressive in certain conditions. If this is a concern, tangerine sage is easily grown in a large container. This is a good-sized plant, topping off at 3 to 5 feet at maturity, with a 2- to 3-foot spread. Butterflies and hummingbirds are attracted to the red, trumpet-shaped flowers, which appear in late summer and autumn.
How to Grow Tangerine Sage
Plant tangerine sage in moderately rich, well-drained soil. Tangerine sage thrives in sunlight, but also tolerates partial shade. Allow plenty of space between plants, as crowding inhibits air circulation and may lead to disease. Water tangerine sage as needed to keep the soil moist after planting. Once the plants are established, they are relatively drought tolerant, but benefit from irrigation during dry weather. Feed tangerine sage plants with an all-purpose, time-release fertilizer at planting time, which should provide nutrients to last throughout the growing season. If you live in a warm climate, cut tangerine sage plants to the ground after blooming ends in autumn.
Is Tangerine Sage Edible?
Absolutely. In fact, this sage plant (as you may have guessed) has a delightful fruity, citrus-like aroma. It is frequently incorporated into herbal butter or fruit salads, or brewed into herbal tea, much like its minty cousins. Other uses for tangerine sage include dried flower arrangements, herbal wreaths and potpourri.
Tangerine Sage Plant Info
Tangerine sage, also known as pineapple sage, is a member of the mint family. This is a good time to mention that although not as wildly invasive as many of its mint cousins, tangerine sage can be somewhat aggressive in certain conditions. If this is a concern, tangerine sage is easily grown in a large container. This is a good-sized plant, topping off at 3 to 5 feet at maturity, with a 2- to 3-foot spread. Butterflies and hummingbirds are attracted to the red, trumpet-shaped flowers, which appear in late summer and autumn.
How to Grow Tangerine Sage
Plant tangerine sage in moderately rich, well-drained soil. Tangerine sage thrives in sunlight, but also tolerates partial shade. Allow plenty of space between plants, as crowding inhibits air circulation and may lead to disease. Water tangerine sage as needed to keep the soil moist after planting. Once the plants are established, they are relatively drought tolerant, but benefit from irrigation during dry weather. Feed tangerine sage plants with an all-purpose, time-release fertilizer at planting time, which should provide nutrients to last throughout the growing season. If you live in a warm climate, cut tangerine sage plants to the ground after blooming ends in autumn.
Is Tangerine Sage Edible?
Absolutely. In fact, this sage plant (as you may have guessed) has a delightful fruity, citrus-like aroma. It is frequently incorporated into herbal butter or fruit salads, or brewed into herbal tea, much like its minty cousins. Other uses for tangerine sage include dried flower arrangements, herbal wreaths and potpourri.
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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
Growing sage (Salvia officinalis) in your garden can be rewarding, especially when it is time to cook a delicious dinner. Wondering how to grow sage? Planting sage is easy.
Choosing Edible Types of Sage Plant
There are many types of sage plant and not all of them are edible. When choosing a sage plant for your herb garden, choose one such as:
Garden Sage
Purple Sage
Tri-color Sage
Golden Sage
How to Grow Sage
The best place for planting sage is in full sun. Your sage plant should be put in a well draining soil, as sage does not like its roots to remain wet. Sage comes from hot, dry climate and will grow best in conditions like this.
Growing Sage from Seeds
Planting sage seeds requires patience, as sage seeds are slow to germinate. Scatter the seeds over seed starting soil and cover them with 1/8 inch of soil. Keep the soil damp but not soaked. Not all the seeds will germinate and the ones that do may take up to six weeks to germinate.
Growing Sage from Cuttings
More commonly, sage is grown from cuttings. In the spring, take softwood cuttings from a mature sage plant. Dip the cut tip of the cutting in rooting hormone, then insert into potting soil. Cover with clear plastic and keep in indirect sunlight until new growth appears on the cutting. At this time you can plant the sage out into your garden. Now that you know how to grow sage, there is no excuse not to add this delicious herb to your garden. It is a perennial herb that will reward your taste buds for many years after planting sage in your herb garden.
Choosing Edible Types of Sage Plant
There are many types of sage plant and not all of them are edible. When choosing a sage plant for your herb garden, choose one such as:
Garden Sage
Purple Sage
Tri-color Sage
Golden Sage
How to Grow Sage
The best place for planting sage is in full sun. Your sage plant should be put in a well draining soil, as sage does not like its roots to remain wet. Sage comes from hot, dry climate and will grow best in conditions like this.
Growing Sage from Seeds
Planting sage seeds requires patience, as sage seeds are slow to germinate. Scatter the seeds over seed starting soil and cover them with 1/8 inch of soil. Keep the soil damp but not soaked. Not all the seeds will germinate and the ones that do may take up to six weeks to germinate.
Growing Sage from Cuttings
More commonly, sage is grown from cuttings. In the spring, take softwood cuttings from a mature sage plant. Dip the cut tip of the cutting in rooting hormone, then insert into potting soil. Cover with clear plastic and keep in indirect sunlight until new growth appears on the cutting. At this time you can plant the sage out into your garden. Now that you know how to grow sage, there is no excuse not to add this delicious herb to your garden. It is a perennial herb that will reward your taste buds for many years after planting sage in your herb garden.
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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
The rue herb (Ruta graveolens) is considered to be an old fashioned herb garden plant. Once grown for medicinal reasons (which studies have shown to be mostly ineffective and even dangerous), these days rue plants are rarely grown in the garden. But just because an herb has fallen out of favor for its original intent does not mean that it can’t have a place in the garden for other reasons.
What is Rue Plant?
While little known, growing rue herb in the garden can be helpful to a gardener in a number of ways. Its strong smell is a repellent to many creatures, including dogs, cats and Japanese beetles. Because of this, it makes an excellent companion plant. It has semi-woody growth, which means that it can be pruned into hedges. It attracts some typess of butterflies, and, last but not least, makes a lovely cut flower. For all of these reasons, it is beneficial to a gardener to learn how to grow rue. Rue plants have bluish-green, fernlike leaves that are bushy and compact. The flowers on the rue herb are yellow with petals that are frilly on the edges and the center of the flower is normally green. Rue normally grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet tall.
How to Grow Rue Herb
Rue herb does well in a variety of soil but does best in well drained soil. In fact, it will do well in the rocky, dry soil that many other plants have a difficult time surviving. It needs full sun to grow well. It is drought tolerant and rarely, if ever needs to be watered. Care should be taken when handling rue plants. The sap of the rue plant is often irritating and can burn or leave rashes on people’s skin.
Rue can be harvested and used in the house as an insect repellent. Simply cut some of the leaves and dry them, then put the dried leaves in cloth bags. These sachets can be placed where ever you need to repel bugs.
What is Rue Plant?
While little known, growing rue herb in the garden can be helpful to a gardener in a number of ways. Its strong smell is a repellent to many creatures, including dogs, cats and Japanese beetles. Because of this, it makes an excellent companion plant. It has semi-woody growth, which means that it can be pruned into hedges. It attracts some typess of butterflies, and, last but not least, makes a lovely cut flower. For all of these reasons, it is beneficial to a gardener to learn how to grow rue. Rue plants have bluish-green, fernlike leaves that are bushy and compact. The flowers on the rue herb are yellow with petals that are frilly on the edges and the center of the flower is normally green. Rue normally grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet tall.
How to Grow Rue Herb
Rue herb does well in a variety of soil but does best in well drained soil. In fact, it will do well in the rocky, dry soil that many other plants have a difficult time surviving. It needs full sun to grow well. It is drought tolerant and rarely, if ever needs to be watered. Care should be taken when handling rue plants. The sap of the rue plant is often irritating and can burn or leave rashes on people’s skin.
Rue can be harvested and used in the house as an insect repellent. Simply cut some of the leaves and dry them, then put the dried leaves in cloth bags. These sachets can be placed where ever you need to repel bugs.
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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
If you like to grow unusual and interesting plants, or if you just like to learn about them, you may be reading this to learn about root beer plants (Piper auritum). If you’re wondering how is a root beer plant used, the answer is found below. A root beer plant growing in the garden provides an interesting fragrance and has a multitude of uses in the kitchen. A root beer plant, also known as Hoja Santa, holy leaf or Mexican pepperleaf, growing in the garden provides the aroma of root beer, and large, furry leaves in which to wrap foods and give them a hint of root beer flavor. An evergreen shrub or small tree in USDA zones 10 and 11, root beer plants are herbaceous perennials in USDA zones 8 and 9. Flowers of the root beer plant are not showy and sometimes not even noticeable. Root beer plants are primarily used as culinary ingredients, or in some areas, medicinal.
How Is a Root Beer Plant Used?
Native to Mexico, this plant has a diversity of uses. Leaves of the root beer plant are steamed and used as wraps in many native dishes. The leaves may also be chopped for use in cooking or salads. Info about root beer plants says they are also used medicinally as an aid to digestion and to calm colicky babies. The leaves are soaked in alcohol and used on women’s breasts to increase milk production. Other info says it is used for bronchitis and asthma. However, in the United States, the FDA banned its commercial use as root beer flavoring in the 1960’s, as it contains the oil safrole, which is known to be carcinogenic in animals.
Keeping this fact in mind, you may wish to grow it for the scent in the garden and not for culinary use. Some sources consider it to be toxic; other information disagrees. Caring for root beer plants is simple when the plant is grown in a warm area. Plant it in full sun to part shade, feed and water occasionally. Caring for root beer plants can be neglected without the loss of the plant, but the most attractive foliage results from proper care. The plant won’t survive in freezing temperatures. Now that you’ve learned about root beer plants, also called the Mexican pepperleaf, you may grow them in a scented garden for the wonderful fragrance.
How Is a Root Beer Plant Used?
Native to Mexico, this plant has a diversity of uses. Leaves of the root beer plant are steamed and used as wraps in many native dishes. The leaves may also be chopped for use in cooking or salads. Info about root beer plants says they are also used medicinally as an aid to digestion and to calm colicky babies. The leaves are soaked in alcohol and used on women’s breasts to increase milk production. Other info says it is used for bronchitis and asthma. However, in the United States, the FDA banned its commercial use as root beer flavoring in the 1960’s, as it contains the oil safrole, which is known to be carcinogenic in animals.
Keeping this fact in mind, you may wish to grow it for the scent in the garden and not for culinary use. Some sources consider it to be toxic; other information disagrees. Caring for root beer plants is simple when the plant is grown in a warm area. Plant it in full sun to part shade, feed and water occasionally. Caring for root beer plants can be neglected without the loss of the plant, but the most attractive foliage results from proper care. The plant won’t survive in freezing temperatures. Now that you’ve learned about root beer plants, also called the Mexican pepperleaf, you may grow them in a scented garden for the wonderful fragrance.
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Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
Purslane herb is often considered to be a weed in many gardens, but if you get to know this fast-growing, succulent plant, you’ll discover that it is both edible and delicious. Growing purslane in the garden can be beneficial for your health and taste buds.
What is Purslane?
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is an herb that is native to Asia, but has spread all across the world. It is commonly found in cleared areas. The purslane herb has red stems and fleshy, green leaves. The flowers are a bright yellow. Purslane is high in Omega-3 fatty acids and contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B, magnesium, calcium, potassium and iron. All in all, edible purslane is a very healthy plant to add to your diet.
Growing Purslane
The hardest part about growing purslane is finding it. Once you have decided to grow purslane, you may find that although you have been pulling it out of your flower beds for years, it has suddenly disappeared. Once you do find a purslane plant, you can either harvest some seeds or trim off a few stems. All purslane needs to grow is part to full sun and clear ground. The plants aren’t picky about soil type or nutrition, but purslane does tend to grow better in drier soil. If you decide to plant purslane seeds, simply scatter the seeds over the area where you plan on growing the purslane. Don’t cover the seeds with soil. Purslane seeds need light to germinate so they must stay on the surface of the soil. If you are using purslane cuttings, lay them on the ground where you plan on growing purslane. Water the stems and they should take root in the soil in a few days.
Care of Purslane Plant
The care of purslane is very simple after it starts growing. You don’t need to do anything. The same traits that make it a weed also makes it an easy to care for herb. Make sure to harvest it regularly and be aware that it can become invasive. Harvesting before it develops flowers will help cut down on its spread. Also, keep in mind that purslane herb is an annual. While the chances are high that it will reseed itself, you may want to collect some seeds at the end of the season so that you have some on hand for next year, rather than hunting for a new purslane plant. If you decide to harvest wild purslane instead of growing purslane, make sure that you only harvest purslane that has not been treated with pesticides or herbicides.
What is Purslane?
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is an herb that is native to Asia, but has spread all across the world. It is commonly found in cleared areas. The purslane herb has red stems and fleshy, green leaves. The flowers are a bright yellow. Purslane is high in Omega-3 fatty acids and contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B, magnesium, calcium, potassium and iron. All in all, edible purslane is a very healthy plant to add to your diet.
Growing Purslane
The hardest part about growing purslane is finding it. Once you have decided to grow purslane, you may find that although you have been pulling it out of your flower beds for years, it has suddenly disappeared. Once you do find a purslane plant, you can either harvest some seeds or trim off a few stems. All purslane needs to grow is part to full sun and clear ground. The plants aren’t picky about soil type or nutrition, but purslane does tend to grow better in drier soil. If you decide to plant purslane seeds, simply scatter the seeds over the area where you plan on growing the purslane. Don’t cover the seeds with soil. Purslane seeds need light to germinate so they must stay on the surface of the soil. If you are using purslane cuttings, lay them on the ground where you plan on growing purslane. Water the stems and they should take root in the soil in a few days.
Care of Purslane Plant
The care of purslane is very simple after it starts growing. You don’t need to do anything. The same traits that make it a weed also makes it an easy to care for herb. Make sure to harvest it regularly and be aware that it can become invasive. Harvesting before it develops flowers will help cut down on its spread. Also, keep in mind that purslane herb is an annual. While the chances are high that it will reseed itself, you may want to collect some seeds at the end of the season so that you have some on hand for next year, rather than hunting for a new purslane plant. If you decide to harvest wild purslane instead of growing purslane, make sure that you only harvest purslane that has not been treated with pesticides or herbicides.
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文章
Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月26日
Peppergrass (Lepidium virginicum) is a very common plant that grows all over the place. It was grown and eaten both in the Incan and Ancient Roman Empires, and today it can be found virtually everywhere in the United States. It spreads easily and is often treated as a weed, but many gardeners and foragers appreciate it for its sharp, peppery flavor. Keep reading to learn more peppergrass information, like peppergrass uses and how to grow peppergrass.
What is Peppergrass?
Peppergrass is an annual, or winter annual, that will grow in most climates. It can thrive in many types of soil, in full sun to partial shade. It is often found in disturbed ground and in urban areas, like vacant lots and roadsides. The plant can grow to three feet in height and become bushy when it has no other competition. It starts out as a low growing rosette that bolts upward rapidly to form long, thin leaves, small white flowers and seed pods. Growing peppergrass plants is very easy, as they reseed themselves and tend to spread to places they’re not wanted. In fact, peppergrass management is usually more difficult and more important than peppergrass care. That said, it does have a useful place in the garden…with careful maintenance.
How to Grow Peppergrass in Gardens
Also called poor man’s pepper, peppergrass is part of the mustard family and has a distinct and pleasant spicy flavor. All parts of the plant are edible, and peppergrass uses have a wide range. The leaves can be eaten raw or used in cooking the way arugula or other mustard greens would be. The seeds can be ground up and used in the same way pepper is used. Even the roots can be pulverized and mixed with salt and vinegar for a very good horseradish alternative.
When growing peppergrass plants, remove most of the flowers before the seed pods have a chance to drop. This will ensure that some new plants grow in the spring, but they won’t overrun your garden.
What is Peppergrass?
Peppergrass is an annual, or winter annual, that will grow in most climates. It can thrive in many types of soil, in full sun to partial shade. It is often found in disturbed ground and in urban areas, like vacant lots and roadsides. The plant can grow to three feet in height and become bushy when it has no other competition. It starts out as a low growing rosette that bolts upward rapidly to form long, thin leaves, small white flowers and seed pods. Growing peppergrass plants is very easy, as they reseed themselves and tend to spread to places they’re not wanted. In fact, peppergrass management is usually more difficult and more important than peppergrass care. That said, it does have a useful place in the garden…with careful maintenance.
How to Grow Peppergrass in Gardens
Also called poor man’s pepper, peppergrass is part of the mustard family and has a distinct and pleasant spicy flavor. All parts of the plant are edible, and peppergrass uses have a wide range. The leaves can be eaten raw or used in cooking the way arugula or other mustard greens would be. The seeds can be ground up and used in the same way pepper is used. Even the roots can be pulverized and mixed with salt and vinegar for a very good horseradish alternative.
When growing peppergrass plants, remove most of the flowers before the seed pods have a chance to drop. This will ensure that some new plants grow in the spring, but they won’t overrun your garden.
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成长记
Ueca
2017年08月25日
Re-located because it was being over-shadowed by a marigold plant. Note how the rosette has opened up due to the shade.
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文章
Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月25日
Pennyroyal plant is a perennial herb that was once widely used but is not as common today. It has applications as an herbal remedy, culinary uses and as a decorative touch. Growing pennyroyal in the herb or perennial garden will add color with its reddish purple to lilac blooms. There are two plants called pennyroyal. One is the European pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), which is a member of the mint family. The other is the American pennyroyal from an unrelated genus, Hedeoma pulegoides.
American Pennyroyal Plant
Either variety of pennyroyal has a fresh, minty scent but American pennyroyal is not in the mint family. They are both low growing plants with slightly hairy stems but the American has a square stem. It is many branched and creeps along at only 6 inches to 1 foot in height. The leaves are tiny and slim and the plant is rather unremarkable until bloom time in July. Until September the plant produces pale blue flower clusters that are dried and distilled for the oils.
European Pennyroyal Plant
True to its family nature, European pennyroyal has a spreading habit. The plants 1-foot tall stems root wherever they touch the ground and start new plants. Care should be exercised when you grow pennyroyal plant and it may be best to plant in pots to minimize the invasiveness of the plant. European pennyroyal can be grown in full sun to partial shade in USDA zones 5 to 9. You can tell the difference between the two types of pennyroyal by the number of stamens. European has four but American flowers only have two.
How to Grow Pennyroyal Herb
Pennyroyal can be propagated from seed, cuttings or spring division. The seed needs light to germinate but grows quickly once it sprouts. Plant them in prepared seed beds outside after all danger of frost. Sow the seed on the surface of the soil and mist the bed to moisten it. Keep it moist and germination should occur in two weeks. Divide established plants every three years in early spring for the best form and production. Pennyroyal is an easy to grow herb. European pennyroyal makes a wonderful trailing plant when grown in a hanging basket or at the edges of mixed color containers. American pennyroyal can be grown indoors in troughs or outside in the kitchen garden. Pinch the terminal ends of the herb to stimulate bushiness and a more compact growing shape. Grow pennyroyal as a ground cover in sunny areas with junky soil. The plant will persist even in unfavorable conditions and can be helpful in vegetation-free zones as an erosion control.
Cautions About Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal has been to relieve pain, gastrointestinal discomfort, soothe colds and to aid in menstruation problems. The plant has also been used to induce abortion, so it should never be handled or ingested by a pregnant woman.
American Pennyroyal Plant
Either variety of pennyroyal has a fresh, minty scent but American pennyroyal is not in the mint family. They are both low growing plants with slightly hairy stems but the American has a square stem. It is many branched and creeps along at only 6 inches to 1 foot in height. The leaves are tiny and slim and the plant is rather unremarkable until bloom time in July. Until September the plant produces pale blue flower clusters that are dried and distilled for the oils.
European Pennyroyal Plant
True to its family nature, European pennyroyal has a spreading habit. The plants 1-foot tall stems root wherever they touch the ground and start new plants. Care should be exercised when you grow pennyroyal plant and it may be best to plant in pots to minimize the invasiveness of the plant. European pennyroyal can be grown in full sun to partial shade in USDA zones 5 to 9. You can tell the difference between the two types of pennyroyal by the number of stamens. European has four but American flowers only have two.
How to Grow Pennyroyal Herb
Pennyroyal can be propagated from seed, cuttings or spring division. The seed needs light to germinate but grows quickly once it sprouts. Plant them in prepared seed beds outside after all danger of frost. Sow the seed on the surface of the soil and mist the bed to moisten it. Keep it moist and germination should occur in two weeks. Divide established plants every three years in early spring for the best form and production. Pennyroyal is an easy to grow herb. European pennyroyal makes a wonderful trailing plant when grown in a hanging basket or at the edges of mixed color containers. American pennyroyal can be grown indoors in troughs or outside in the kitchen garden. Pinch the terminal ends of the herb to stimulate bushiness and a more compact growing shape. Grow pennyroyal as a ground cover in sunny areas with junky soil. The plant will persist even in unfavorable conditions and can be helpful in vegetation-free zones as an erosion control.
Cautions About Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal has been to relieve pain, gastrointestinal discomfort, soothe colds and to aid in menstruation problems. The plant has also been used to induce abortion, so it should never be handled or ingested by a pregnant woman.
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文章
Dummer. ゛☀
2017年08月25日
The benefits of nettle root are unsubstantiated but may be useful in relieving symptoms associated with enlarged prostate. The above ground portions of the plant are also a tasty forage food. Harvesting nettle root requires finesses and caution, as the stems and leaves are covered with fine hairs that deliver a histamine jab, resulting in a painful rash and sometimes blisters. The effects decline over a short period but can be excruciating at first contact. Some tips and tricks on how to harvest stinging nettle roots without getting bitten by the stingers can help keep you safe as you collect this potentially troublesome, yet beneficial, plant.
Uses for Stinging Nettle Root
If you have ever been hiking in North America near streams, lakes and other areas with rich soil, you might have encountered stinging nettle and it isn’t a meeting you are likely to forget. However, this plant is one of the most tasty forage plants available, in spite of its sting. Young shoots and leaves are delicious edibles, and tea from the dried foliage is a traditional medicinal as well as plant fertilizer. There are also many uses for stinging nettle root that rely upon historical health knowledge. But first, you need to get a hold of the root without causing yourself considerable distress.
Nettle root is available at many natural food and holistic medicine stores. It comes as a tincture, capsule, tablet or even a tea. You can easily make your own tea by drying the leaves and steeping them in water to harness the flavor and healthful benefits. The root is said to assist sufferers of enlarged prostate by reducing the urge to urinate. In addition to this use, stinging nettle may also assist with muscle and joint pain abatement and to help with urinary tract infection symptoms. Modern medicine is studying the plant’s use as an arthritis treatment to reduce inflammation, but the primary parts utilized are the leaves. Native Americans also used root decoctions for dysentery, to reduce bleeding, and to relieve asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory ailments. It was also applied externally to soothe hemorrhoids and other swollen skin tissues.
How to Harvest Stinging Nettle Roots
If you are trying to harness the benefits of stinging nettle root, you are going to have to dig a bit. In most cases, gloves are a good idea, as some contact with the leaves is likely to occur. Casual contact with any above ground part of the plant can cause a dermatological incident that is painful and persistent. Be cautious when harvesting nettle root, as the process will kill this valuable plant. Make sure there are plenty of other specimens nearby and you are not reducing the population significantly. You can remove the leaves before digging up the roots, save them and use them in a stir fry or dry them for tea. Stems are bitter and fibrous unless the shoots are very young. Dig outside the foliage area and under the plant at least a foot to get the roots without damaging them. Once you have your roots, thoroughly clean them in fresh water. Change the water several times and use a vegetable brush to help remove all the grime. Chop the roots into small pieces. The smaller the size, the better you can harness all the juices and benefits from the roots.
To make medicine, place the roots in a Mason jar and cover with pure grain alcohol at a rate of 1 part root to 2 parts alcohol. Cover the container and store it in a cool, dark location. Shake the jar daily. In approximately 8 weeks, the medicine of the roots will have leached out into the alcohol. Alternatively, you can blanch and mash the roots before storing in the alcohol, but some of the benefits will be lost in the process. Drying the root pieces and making them into tea is another method of harnessing the healing powers of stinging nettle. As with any medicine, consult with a professional healer to determine amounts to ingest and the perfect ratio.
Uses for Stinging Nettle Root
If you have ever been hiking in North America near streams, lakes and other areas with rich soil, you might have encountered stinging nettle and it isn’t a meeting you are likely to forget. However, this plant is one of the most tasty forage plants available, in spite of its sting. Young shoots and leaves are delicious edibles, and tea from the dried foliage is a traditional medicinal as well as plant fertilizer. There are also many uses for stinging nettle root that rely upon historical health knowledge. But first, you need to get a hold of the root without causing yourself considerable distress.
Nettle root is available at many natural food and holistic medicine stores. It comes as a tincture, capsule, tablet or even a tea. You can easily make your own tea by drying the leaves and steeping them in water to harness the flavor and healthful benefits. The root is said to assist sufferers of enlarged prostate by reducing the urge to urinate. In addition to this use, stinging nettle may also assist with muscle and joint pain abatement and to help with urinary tract infection symptoms. Modern medicine is studying the plant’s use as an arthritis treatment to reduce inflammation, but the primary parts utilized are the leaves. Native Americans also used root decoctions for dysentery, to reduce bleeding, and to relieve asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory ailments. It was also applied externally to soothe hemorrhoids and other swollen skin tissues.
How to Harvest Stinging Nettle Roots
If you are trying to harness the benefits of stinging nettle root, you are going to have to dig a bit. In most cases, gloves are a good idea, as some contact with the leaves is likely to occur. Casual contact with any above ground part of the plant can cause a dermatological incident that is painful and persistent. Be cautious when harvesting nettle root, as the process will kill this valuable plant. Make sure there are plenty of other specimens nearby and you are not reducing the population significantly. You can remove the leaves before digging up the roots, save them and use them in a stir fry or dry them for tea. Stems are bitter and fibrous unless the shoots are very young. Dig outside the foliage area and under the plant at least a foot to get the roots without damaging them. Once you have your roots, thoroughly clean them in fresh water. Change the water several times and use a vegetable brush to help remove all the grime. Chop the roots into small pieces. The smaller the size, the better you can harness all the juices and benefits from the roots.
To make medicine, place the roots in a Mason jar and cover with pure grain alcohol at a rate of 1 part root to 2 parts alcohol. Cover the container and store it in a cool, dark location. Shake the jar daily. In approximately 8 weeks, the medicine of the roots will have leached out into the alcohol. Alternatively, you can blanch and mash the roots before storing in the alcohol, but some of the benefits will be lost in the process. Drying the root pieces and making them into tea is another method of harnessing the healing powers of stinging nettle. As with any medicine, consult with a professional healer to determine amounts to ingest and the perfect ratio.
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