Last posted I’ve talked about Moringa in general term, today I want you to know how to grow it. This herb can be grown in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Moringa trees grow easily from seeds or cuttings. They grow quickly even in poor soil and bloom 8 months after planting.
To grow from a cutting:
After the trees have stopped producing fruits each year, branches need to be cut off so that fresh growth may take place. These branches are excellent for growing new trees.
1. Make a cutting at least 1" (2.5cm) in diameter and at least six feet (1.8m) long.
2. Dig a hole 3 ft. (1m) x 3 ft. (1m) and 3 ft. (1m) deep.
3. Place cutting in this hole and fill with a mixture of soil, sand and composted manure. Pack firmly around base of the cutting. Form a slight dome or cone shape, sloping down away from the cutting. It is desirable that water not touch the stem of the new tree.
4. Water generously, but do not drown the cutting in water.
In India, the custom is to put some cow dung on top of the open end of the cutting. This is an excellent way to protect the cutting from pests.
To grow from seed:
Moringa seeds have no dormancy periods and can be planted as soon as they are mature.
- To grow from seed in the ground
It is best to plant the seeds directly where the tree is intended to grow and not transplant the seedling. The young seedlings are fragile and often cannot survive transplanting.
- To plant seeds directly in the ground
1. Choose an area with light and sandy soil, not heavy with clay or water-logged.
2. Dig holes 1 ft (30 cm) square and 1 ft deep. Back-fill the holes with loose soil. Compost or manure will help the tree grow better, even though Moringa trees can grow in poor soils.
3. Plant 3 to 5 seeds in each hole, 2 in. (5 cm) apart. Plant the seeds no deeper than three times the width of the seed (approximately ½ in. or 1.5 cm -- the size of one's thumbnail).
4. Keep the soil moist enough so that the top soil will not dry and choke the emerging saplings, but it should not too wet or else the seeds can drown and rot.
5. When the saplings are four to six inches tall, keep the healthiest sapling in the ground and remove the rest. Termites and nematodes can kill a young sapling. Take measures to protect saplings from these two dangers.
Note:
If the soil is heavy, dig a larger hole of up to 3 ft (90 cm) in diameter and 3 ft deep, and backfill with 1 part sand and 2 parts original soil. Added compost or manure will help.
To grow from seed in the Plastic Bags:
When it is not possible to plant directly in the ground, use the following method:
1. Fill seedling bags with light soil mixture, i.e. 3 parts soil to 1 part sand.
2. Plant two or three seeds in each bag, ¼ in. (0.5 cm) deep.
3. Keep moist but not too wet. Germination will occur within two weeks.
4. Remove extra seedlings, leaving one in each bag.
Seedlings can be transplanted after four to six months when they are 2-3 ft (60-90 cm) high.
Transplanting
The ground where the trees are to be planted should be light and sandy, not heavy with clay or water-logged.
Dig a hole 1 ft (30 cm) square and 1 ft deep. Backfill with loose soil. Adding compost or manure will help the trees grow better.
1. Water the planting holes one day before transplanting the seedlings.
2. Plant seedlings in the late afternoon to avoid the hot sun the first day.
3. Make a hole in the pit to accept all soil in the bag. Carefully cut open the sack and place the seedling in the planting hole. Be careful to keep the soil around the seedling's roots intact.
4. Pack soil around the seedling base.
5. Water only lightly for the first few days.
If the seedlings fall over, tie them to a stick for support. Protect young saplings from termites and nematodes.
Ref : http://www.treesforlife.org
How to Grow the Moringa Tree
Bitter Gourd or Bitter Melon - Gardening
Scientific Name : Momordica Charantia L.
Family : Cucurbitacea
Colour : Light Green
Common names : Bitter gourd, Bitter melon, Bitter cucumber, Karela (Hindi), Balsam pear, Balsam apple
Best Season : Throughout the year
Nutritional Value : 44 kcal, 5.6 g protein, 290 mg calcium, 5 mg iron, 5.1 mg vitamin A, 170 mg vitamin C per 100 g serving.
Bitter gourd is a fast growing warm seasonal climbing annual, native to South Asia. Considered one of the most nutritious gourds, the plant has medicinal properties. A compound known as 'charantin' present in the bitter gourd is used in the treatment of diabetes to lower blood sugar levels. The plant also has a rich amount of Vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, phosphorus and carbohydrates. There are several varieties available, having fruits 3-4 inches to even 12inches in length.
This vine has a slender hairy stem with numerous branches and dense foliage. The plant grows up to 6 feet tall and develops small, yellow flowers both male and female, on the same plant. The fruits are green usually oblong, has an irregular surface with warts and 8-10 vertical ridges. When ripe, the fruits turn yellowish orange in colour.
Propagation and Planting :
Mainly a warm season plant, bitter gourd thrives in hot and humid climates. Propagation is through direct seeding and transplanting. The best medium for the seeds is a fertile, well drained soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.7, enriched with organic matter, such as compost or dried manure. But it will tolerate any soil that provide a good drainage system. The soil must be prepared well by adding organic matter before planting.
Two or three seeds can be sown together in a pit 1/2 inch deep. Water lightly. For better results soak the seeds in water 24 hours before sowing. The seeds will germinate in 2-3 days. The germinated seeds can be replanted on raised beds 18-20 inches apart. Transplants should be done in such a way as to avoid disturbance to the root system.
As the plants grow, place poles 2m.high and give wire or twine supports in rows across the poles.
Regular watering with plenty of water is essential for its growth. Flowers will start appearing in 5-6 weeks and fruition will occur between two to four months. Mature fruits are ready to be picked within3 months from planting and they will be light green and juicy with white flesh but bitter. Pick the fruits every 2-3 days when they are still at the tender stage. Regular picking is important as fruits will become more bitter as they mature and it can also hamper the growth of new fruits.
Leave some fruits to reach full maturity if they have to be reserved for subsequent crops. When fully mature, the fruits will break open on its own and release brown or white seeds which can be collected.
Problems and Care :
Vines should be pruned at the tips when female flowers start developing to encourage branching and fast bearing. Regular fertilizing is essential for its growth. Water immediately after applying fertilizers.
Bitter gourd is susceptible to many diseases and insect pests. It is susceptible to watermelon mosaic virus, other cucurbit viruses and powdery mildew, which can be controlled by sulfur dust. Rust disease is controlled by spraying foliage with oxycarboxin. The fruits are subject to attack by various fruit flies and fruit rots. Pests attack on fruits can be prevented by wrapping fruits with newspapers, when they are about a few centimetres long.
Ref : http://www.webindia123.com
Garden Herbs and How to grow - Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm
It's the besic herb in the garden, and it's very easy to grow... After leaves removed from the branch, just plant the branch in the soil and water, the leaves can sprout again...
Planting
Lemon balm is easy to grow from seed sown in the spring or early fall. The seed is very small and should be covered with only a fine layer of soil. Cuttings and root divisions, however, are faster and easier ways to establish lemon balm. Stem cuttings can be made from the vigorous summer growth or the roots can be divided in the spring or fall. Root cuttings should contain three to four buds each. In the fall, plant root cuttings early enough for the plants to become established before the first frost and mulch for the winter. Suggested spacing is 12 to 24 inches apart in the row and 24 inches, or whatever distance is practical for cultivation, between the rows. Close spacing of rows and individual plants will result in the highest yeilds. When choosing a site, keep in mind that lemon balm self-sows freely, spreads rapidly and can quickly become a weed.
Lemon balm grows best in fertile, moist soil with a pH of 5 to 7.5. It prefers a cool, partially shaded habitat but will grow in full sun. Plants grown in shade, however, tend to be larger and more succulent than those grown in direct sunlight. In regions where the ground freezes, the crowns should be mulched for the winter.
Fertilization
Although specific recommendations are not available for fertilization of lemon balm, for mint production 80 to 100 pounds of nitrogen, 100 pounds of phosphorus and 400 pounds of potash per acre are often recommended. Yield and oil content may be increased by sidedressing with nitrogen several times during the growing season.
Irrigation
Provide a regular supply of water through drip or overhead irrigation.
Weed Control
Currently, there are no herbicides cleared for use on lemon balm in North Carolina. Weed control is important, however, because the presence of weeds in the dried product will reduce quality and, consequently, price. Shallow cultivation and the use of plastic or organic mulches are recommended.
Disease and Insect Control
There are no pesticides registered for lemon balm in North Carolina. Prevention of disease through good cultural practices is the most effective means for healthy crop production. To reduce the incidence of soil borne diseases, rotate plantings of lemon balm to soils that have not been used for cultivation of another member of the mint family for several years. To prevent foliar diseases, keep foliage as dry as possible by watering early in the day or by using drip irrigation. Insects are not usually a problem on lemon balm. If populations become unacceptably high, however, various organic controls such as beneficial insects, traps, mild soap solutions and hand-picking, can be tried. Before spraying any homemade insecticide solution on a crop, test for adverse effects to the foliage by spraying a small area first and observing for a day or two.
Harvest and Handling
Lemon balm can be harvested for fresh sales once or twice a week. Frequent trimming encourages branching and will result in a bushy, compact plant. For a dried product, harvest at least twice a season just as the plant comes into bloom. For large scale operations, foliage can be cut with a side-bar cutter. An acre may produce 1000 pounds or more of dried herb. Be careful not to bruise the leaves during the harvest and drying operations as quality will be reduced. Although lemon balm dries quickly and easily it will not be as fragrant dried as fresh. It can be dried outside in partial shade but will brown quickly if there is any night moisture. Plants may also be hung in bunches and air dried in a shed or barn or oven dried on screens. When dry, store in tightly closed containers. If hung to dry in bunches, lemon balm can be rapidly processed by rubbing each bundle across a half-inch mesh screen to crumble the leaves.
Uses
Lemon balm, with its delicate lemon scent and flavor, is valued as a culinary, cosmetic and medicinal herb. Fresh sprigs are used to top drinks and as garnishes on salads and main dishes. Fresh or dried leaves make a refreshing tea, either iced or hot. Dried leaves are used as an ingredient in many pot-pourris and the oil is used in perfume. Used throughout history as a medicinal herb, lemon balm has mild sedative properties and has been used to relieve gas, reduce fever, and increase perspiration. The volatile oil contains citral, citronellal, eugenol acetate and geraniol. Both oil and hot water extracts of the leaves have been shown to possess strong antibacterial and antiviral qualities.
Ref : http://www.ces.ncsu.edu
Garden Herbs and How to grow - Basil
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil, with it's wonderful aroma and flavor, is one of the most popular and widely grown herbs in the world. We associate basil with Italian cooking, so you may be surprised to find that basil originated in the far eastern countries of India, Pakistan and Thailand.
There are so many uses for basil that every herb gardener will want to have a plant or two. It is an attractive plant that works well in vegetable, herb and flower gardens.
Basil also makes a great kitchen windowsill plant and looks great in hanging baskets either alone or in combination with flowers. Basil is striking in containers when combined with nasturtiums, zinnias or marigolds. Place pots of basil around the deck or porch to enjoy the aroma.
Cultivation of Herb
The easiest way to start basil seeds is to sow them directly into the garden. In colder zones, start basil indoors in mid-spring. Seedlings should not be set outdoors until all danger of frost has past and the plant has four true leaves. Plants can also be started from cuttings or rooted suckers.
Once plants are established, pinch out the top to encourage a bushier plant. Frequent harvesting of the outer leaves will prolong the life of the plant. Basil leaves have the best flavor just before the plant flowers, and if you plan to preserve some of your basil or make a big batch of pesto, this is the best time to harvest. You can delay flowering by pinching or clipping off new flower buds.
Culinary Use of Herb
Basil has a warm, resinous, clove-like flavor and fragrance. The flowers and leaves are best used fresh and added only during the last few minutes of cooking. Basil works well in combination with tomatoes. Finely chopped basil stirred into mayonnaise makes a good sauce for fish. Use as a garnish for vegetables, chicken and egg dishes. Large lettuce-leaf basil can be stuffed as you would a grape leaf.
Basil doesn't keep well in the refrigerator. Instead, place the cut stems in water and keep them on the windowsill. Sprigs stored this way will remain fresh a week or more.
Basil doesn't retain its flavor well when dried. Instead, layer basil between sheets of waxed paper and freeze. The leaves will darken when frozen this way, but you'll be pleasantly surprised at how well it will retain aroma and flavor. You can also fill ice cube trays with chopped basil, and then cover with water and freeze. Basil ice cubes are great for soups and stews.
Medicinal Use of Herb
To relieve sore gums, swish out the mouth often with a tea made from eight basil leaves in a cup of boiling water. A basil leaf tucked into the mouth over an ulcer and kept there for as long as possible will ease the pain.
Other Uses of Herb
- Basil in the bath is refreshing.
- Leaves and flowers can be dried for potpourri.
- Burn sprigs of basil on the barbecue to deter mosquitoes.
- A bunch of basil hung over the kitchen window or a pot of basil in the windowsill will deter flies.
Ref : http://www.gardenguides.com
Garden Herbs and How to grow - Coriander
The another names of "Coriander" I've herd are Chinese parsley or cilantro. This plant is basic herb in Thailand and easy to grow. When I was young, my teacher of agicultural subject used to assign my friends and me to grow them. I was very excited when I weak up and found Coriander Herb in my garden!!!
Coriander is a delicate annual herb with several branches and lacy leaves with jagged edges belonging to the carrot family. Native to South Europe and Asia, this aromatic beautiful herb is found in many parts of the world. Coriander's leaves called cilantro is used as seasoning in curries, salads and soup and its dried ripe spherical seeds mostly in powder form is slightly roasted and used as curry powder in dishes, to flavour cakes, cookies, alcoholic beverages such as gin etc. This fragrant spice also has its own medicinal properties. Oil of Coriander seeds is a valuable ingredient in perfumes.
Coriander plant grows fast to a height of 1 to 3 feet with a spread of 9 inches. It has branched pale green shoots with fan shaped bright, green leaves with jagged edges. The flowers are small and pinkish- white, formed in clusters that will ripen into coriander seeds. The aromatic seeds are round yellowish brown in colour when ripe. The strongly flavored leaves, the seeds and shoot are all edible.
Propagation and Planting for Coriander Herb
The propagation of coriander is through seeds. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden or in a container or pot. Plant the seeds 1/2" to 1" deep, 2-3 feet apart in rows and rows should be 15" apart. Coriander traditionally germinates very slowly and can take as long as 21days to emerge. Ensure regular watering and that the soil is warm enough for speedy germination.
The plant prefers well drained loamy soils rich in organic matter with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Soil should not be too rich with organic matter as too much nitrogen lessens the flavour. The plant requires partial shade but fairly high temperature and sufficient water. The plant can be kept in full sun but must be shaded during the heat of day to protect against sunscald. Too much heat can damage the fruit. They need a long season to ripen, so choose an early variety.
Coriander leaves can be picked when the plant is immature i.e only a few inches tall. Fresh tender leaves have better flavour. But seeds ripen only after a long season say about 2 1/2 months before they are ready to be picked. Harvest seeds when fruits turn brown and before they shatter. Mature or ripe fruits have a distinct spicy aroma. Leave the seed heads in a dry airy place for 2-3days. Shake off the seeds and store for later use.
Problems and Care for Coriander Herb
Several commonly occurring root diseases, such as damping off and seedling rot, can infect coriander seedlings. Symptoms include yellowing and death of newly emerged seedlings. Seeds chosen must be clean and healthy. The best protection against diseases is to choose resistant healthy varieties and to rotate crops as much as possible. It is important to use clean seed to reduce the risk of seedling diseases. Crop rotations will help to prevent the build up of diseases.
Weed build up is another problem which limits coriander production. Spray three to four times per season to control weeds. Grasshoppers are an insect pest in coriander as their heads and other body parts can contaminate the grain sample and cause downgrading or rejection. Leaf hoppers also can spread aster yellows disease which can make the plants sterile. Attempts should be made to prevent the spread of leaf hoppers into the crop area. Stems of coriander are weak and the plant may require staking.
Ref : http://www.webindia123.com
Garden Herbs and How to grow - Rosemary
Rosemery , or Perennial , or Rosemarinus Offinalis
With thin, dark green leaves and pale blue flowers, Rosemary is a popular and attractive herb. It is an evergreen shrub that grows 3-6 feet tall.
Rosemary is a member of the mint family. It grow wild in the Mediterranean region. It is a perennial in warm areas. But, it is susceptible to frost and therefore, is grown as an annual in many parts of the country.
Young plants can be grown like houseplants until they get big. Then, move them outside to their permanent summer home. They will look and grow well in your garden, along the house, or in big containers.
Propagation
Rosemary are grown from seed. The seed is hard to start. Soak the seeds in water a few hours before planting. We recommend starting it indoors on propagation mats to improve germination success. Start them indoors six weeks before the last frost. If you want to grow and enjoy them as houseplants, start them indoors even earlier. After they sprout, place them in a warm, sunny window.
When transplanting outdoors, space plants three feet or more apart. In warm areas where there is no frost or freezes, pick a place where you want it to grow for many years.
How to Grow Rosemary Shrubs
Rosemary are very easy to grow evergreen shrubs. They prefer full sun to partial shade. They will do well in almost any soil. They tolerate dry soil conditions and drought. They should not require water during droughts, but add water if they appear to wilt. They usually do not require fertilizer.
Once your Rosemary reaches a couple of feet, don't hesitate to bring out the shears and shape it. Be creative if you dare!
Harvest leaves and use fresh, as needed, in the summer. As autumn arrives, pick leaves in the morning when the oils are at their peak. Spread leaves out to dry in a cool, well ventilated area. Or, pick and freeze immediately.
Main Cooking Uses
The leaves are used fresh, dried, or frozen in many recipes. It commonly is used on meats (beef, chicken, ribs), stews, sauces, and soups.
Brew some fresh Rosemary in tea, adding a few fresh or dried leaves.
Medicinal/Other Uses
Rosemary has been used to treat both stomach aches and headaches. It is also believed to aid in memory retention.
The oil of Rosemary is used in perfumes and cosmetics. It has also been used as a moth repellent.
Ref : www.gardenersnet.com
Garden Herbs and How to grow - Mint
Mint, or Perennial, or Mentha piperita
If you are looking for a complete listing of Mint species, you won't find it here. There are over 3,500 species! So, let's focus on the two most common mints. There's no surprise here. The most common mints are Peppermint and Spearmint. And, best of all, you can grow them with ease!
Most mints are natives of the Mediterranean region. They are hardy perennial plants, and they are very easy to grow. They have bright green leaves on bushy plants. Flowers include white, blue and pink. Once planted, mints will come back year, after year, after year. They require little or no maintenance, too. They will however, take over the garden if allowed. So, some effort is required to control them from spreading. Most varieties grow 12-24 inches.
Mints are great in herb gardens, in beds along the house, or in containers. Mints can be grown indoors as houseplants.
Did you know?
The mint family includes Marjoram, Rosemary and Sage. And, approximately 3,497 more.
Propagation
Mint is grown from seed. Get an early start planting it indoors as a houseplant. Or, directly sow seeds into your garden in the spring. Space seedlings or thin plants to 12" to 18" apart
Established plants are prolific propagaters, producing suckers in the second and following years. They can also be grown from cuttings.
How to Grow Peppermint, Spearmint and other Mints
Mint is simply too easy to grow. They thrive in sun or partial shade. They will do well in average soils. Mint withstands droughts, and heat very well. Chances are, you will not have to water them during a drought. Fertilizer is not usually required, except in the poorest of soils.
Mints are aggressive growers, crowding out other plants if given the chance. Give them plenty of space away from other plants in your garden. Or, better still, put in a border edging.
Harvest leaves at any time. They can be used fresh, dried, or frozen. Pick them in the morning when the oils are strongest. Spread leaves out to dry in a cool and ventilated area.
Tip Mint has a very strong, overpowering scent. Once dried, store it in an air-tight container, away from other herbs.
Main Uses
The oils in mint are in glands in the leaves. Crushing them release the oils and the pleasant, strong, and soothing flavor.
Mints and oils of mints are used for oils, used in cookies, teas, candies, jellies, chewing gum, flavoring for medicines, toothpaste, ice cream, liqueurs, and much more.
Medicinal Uses
Mint is often used to sooth upset stomaches and on occasion, for toothaches. It has also been used for headaches.
Ref : www.gardenersnet.com
Garden Herbs and How to grow - Garlic
Garlic
Garlic is one of the more heralded vegetables and herb in your garden. Plant garlic cloves in the fall, and you will harvest garlic bulbs in late spring. Home grown, freshly harvested garlic bulbs, are much stronger than those found in stores. It can be cooked and eaten by itself as a delicious food.
Garlic is one of herb that simple and easy to grow. Anybody, make that everybody, can learn how to grow garlic. Plant it in just about any slightly rich soil, in a partly to mostly sunny location and it will thrive. And, best of all, it takes little space. It can even be grown amidst your flower garden if you are short on space.
It is most commonly used as a spice or herb. It is used in recipes around the world. Perhaps it is best known for it's use in Italian, Chinese, and Oriental cooking. It's roots can be traced to Central Asia.
Garlic does not stake it's claim to fame on cooking alone. It is also widely used in organic gardening. It's strong odor is a natural repellent to many insect pests. In addition, garlic was believed to have the power to ward off demons and vampires.
Medicinal Value
Since ancient times, Garlic has been hailed for it's medicinal value. It was used to treat a wide variety of ails. Current research suggests it aids in lowering cholesterol, reducing cardiovascular disease and even cancer prevention. Some studies suggest garlic also helps to relieve cold and flu symptoms.
Varieties
Regular Garlic : White or purple varieties
Elephant Garlic : Slightly milder in taste, but about twice the size of regular garlic. Elephant garlic is not only good for spicing up food, but can be cooked by itself. Cooked or grilled, it takes on a very mild taste. Eat it by itself, or spread it on a piece of Italian bread.
How to Grow Garlic
Garlic root forms a bulb comprising several segments called cloves. Separate the cloves, and plant them in the fall for a spring crop. They will begin to grow and take root until snow covers the ground. In the spring they will start growing again, and will be harvestable in late spring to early summer.
Garlic will not tell you when it is thirsty. Make sure to water regularly, as dry weather arrives. Add a little general purpose fertilizer in the fall ,and a couple of times in the spring.
Insects and Pests
Garlic is resistant to most pests. It's odor wards off many insects. However, on occasion, maggots will be a problem.
Try garlic near your roses to ward off aphids and Japanese Beetles.
Disease
Garlic is resistant to most forms of disease.
Harvest and Storage
Pull garlic after the tops have fallen over and dried. (Although you can begin to pick them as soon as a bulb starts to form.). Wash them off ,and leave them to dry in the sun for a day or two.
You can weave the stalks into a braid and hang them for future use. Or, you can cut the stalk off and store them in a cool, dry place. Properly stored, it will keep over the winter months.
Hardiness
Garlic is among the hardiest of plants. It is resistant to cold. It goes dormant over the winter like winter wheat or lawns, but does not die. Once spring arrives, it begins to grow with the first warm days of late winter or early spring. It is not harmed by frost, freezes or even snow.
Ref : www.gardenersnet.com
Garden Herbs and How to grow - Basil
Basil
Basil herb is among the most popular plants in the home herb garden. It is about as easy to grow as any plant can be. The Basil plant is attractive, with many varieties to choose from. Among them, are varieties stealing a bit of flavor from anise, cinnamon, lemon and licorice. There are spice varieties and sweet ones, too. Take your pick, but make sure to include one or two varieties of this popular herb.
Basil grows 10-12 inches tall It is a bushy plant with tooth edged leaves. The leaves are varying shades of green to dark green, depending upon variety. Fragrant, purplish white flowers grow on tall spikes. These attractive flowers are sometimes used in bouquets. They are popular with bees too.
In the kitchen, the many varieties of Basil finds it's way into a huge number of recipes around the world. None are more popular though, than the many Italian recipes.
Basil grows well in herb gardens, flower gardens, containers and pots. They make a good indoor plant in a sunny window. Try growing them indoors over the winter.
Propagation
Basil are grown from seed. It is popular started indoors in containers first. Started early and placed in a sunny window, many lucky gardeners will be using the Basil leaves before others have even planted them outdoors. Basil can also be directly seeded into your garden after all danger of frost.
Space seedlings or thin plants to 10" apart, in rows two feet apart. Some gardeners will grow just a few plants in clumps. They will tolerate a little crowding.
How to Grow
Basil is very easy to grow. They prefer full sun. They do well in average soils and tolerate dry soil conditions.
Water them during dry periods, at least once a week.
Add a general purpose fertilizer once or twice a season.
Harvest leaves and stems. Rinse well, then dry them in a cool, dry place. Make sure they are completely dried before storing. Or, you can freeze basil for later use.
Main Cooking Uses
Basil shines in kitchens around the world. From Thailand to the Mediterranean to the United States, there is no shortage of recipes.
Basil is a standard in pizzas, spaghetti sauces, and pestos. Basil ads flavor to cheeses, soups omelets, and salads. It is also used fresh for sliced tomatoes, as a garnish, or for flavoring meats, and cooked in stir-fries.
Ref : www.gardenersnet.com
Garden Herbs and How to grow - Anise
Anise
Those of us growing Anise Herb do so for the fresh and popular flavor of licorice. Anise is native to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean, where is grown as a cash crop. You can also find Anise growing wild in fields. It is related to caraway and dill.
The Anise herb plant has lacy leaves, and heads of white flowers that give way to seeds containing tasty oils. When in bloom, Anise provides a profusion of flowers. And that's good, because the flowers produce the seeds that produce the oils that tastes so good! It grows 18-24".
Propagation
Anise are grown from seed. Directly sow seeds into your garden. Sow seeds early in the season, and cover lightly with soil. Space seedlings, or thin plants to 18" apart in rows 12 inches apart.
How to Grow
Anise is easy to grow. They prefer full sun and a well drained soil. They will do well in average soils, and tolerate dry soil conditions. Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week. Add a general purpose fertilizer once or twice a season.
Harvest flower heads after seeds have formed, and the flower head has died. Extract seeds and dry them in a cool, dry location.
Main Cooking Uses
The oils are extracted from the seeds.
Use leaves in salads, seeds in baking, cookies, pastries, cheese, and candies. Also used to flavor oils and liqueurs.
Leaves and flowers can also be used as a garnish.
Medicinal Applications
Anise is often used to treat stomachaches.
Ref : www.gardenersnet.com
