Greenthumb Gardening

Windowsill Herb Garden - Build An Inexpensive Container

2006-04-06T17:35:00.000-07:00

I recently planted some mint and chive herb seeds in individual potting cups that I'll transfer outside in a couple of months. I had some extra seeds. So, rather than letting them go to waste, I decided to create a windowsill herb garden. I had a plastic container from a recent batch of tomatoes I picked up at Costco that would work well for my project. Yes, even Greenthumb Tom has to purchase fresh tomotoes from the store when none are available in his garden.

I filled the plastic container with some soilless potting mix which would allow for decent drainage. The clear plastic container was the type with a folding top that snapped together on either side. There were about 15 tomatoes in it which I removed. I have a window that receives about 5 hours of sun a day. This became the perfect spot for my inexpensive windowsill herb garden. The potting mix filled the container about 2-3 inches deep.

I then planted the chive seeds in one half and the mint in the other. Herbs don't care for really wet soil so be sure to water them lightly. With the top of the container snapped closed it creates a mini greenhouse. The initial sprouts shoot up in no time at all. The best type of herbs for this are the low growing varieties such as chives, mint, parsley, or thyme. My inexpensive windowsill herb garden will soon provide handy ingredients to those baked potatotes or meat dishes. Try this yourself and receive the satisfaction of using fresh herbs you've grown yourself.

How to Grow Ginger in a Cold Climate

2006-04-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

Last night I decided to cook up a stir fry. Ginger is definitely a key ingredient in this fast form of cooking. It not only acts as an anti-inflammatory and increases circulation, but this root is great with noodles. It adds that Asian flair to most Chinese dishes. Growing ginger outside is impossible if you live in a colder climate. Why not try growing ginger in a pot indoors?

I would suggest growing your ginger in a pot around 15 inches across and 12 inches in depth. You want to allow an adequate area for proper drainage. Pick up three ginger roots the next time you hit your local grocery. It's best to use those with an abundant amount of buds. Soak your ginger roots in luke-warm water for 24 hours. Place your tubers in enriched potting soil with the buds up.

If you begin growing this plant in the Spring, with temperatures over 60 degrees F, you can leave your pot outside. Ideal temperature for growing ginger root is over 75 degrees F. Water the ginger tubers lightly at first, increasing amounts as the ginger begins to grow.

In nine to twelve months you should have a ginger plant 3 to 4 feet tall. You can then enjoy home-grown "ginger root" in your favorite chinese dishes.

Oregano and Basil Dry Rub Spice Mix Recipe

2006-04-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

Using two of my favorite herbs in a dry rub spice mix, creates an excellent herb recipe to liven up your next barbeque. This weeks featured herb, oregano, combined with a previous herb of the week, basil, makes one darn good dry rub.

You can use this herb recipe on your preferred meat. I've enjoyed it on chicken, pork, and beef. Here's the recipe:

1 1/2 Tbsp salt

1 tsp ground black pepper

1 Tbsp garlic powder or dried garlic

1 Tbsp onion powder or dried onion

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

2 Tbsp paprika

1 tsp chile powder

1/4 cup brown sugar

Combine spices and all ingredients in a bowl until mixed thoroughly. This will cover around 5 pieces of meat. You then work the dry herb rub into the meat. It's best left overnight in the refrigerator.

Cook the meat either in a crock pot for around 4 hours on low, or bake in the oven for 2 - 2 1/2 hours at around 275F. You can also use this on the barbeque. Turns out delicious!

Using this dry herb rub on your next meat dish is sure to be a hit with family or friends. Brag a little and let them know you're using herbs grown in your garden.

Building a Deer Fence for the Deer Proof Garden

2006-04-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

After recently speaking with my relatives about their use of whitetail deer repellents, I took part in building a deer fence for a friends basic herb garden. He's been having problems the last few years with these animals.

I mentioned to him that coyote urine may be a product he'd like to try. Deer can detect the smell of predator urine which deters them from entering the garden. The challenge is that it can wash off. He thought it would be best building a deer fence to protect his basic herb garden in addition to using the coyote urine.

The wireless deer fence sounded like a good way to deter the deer, but he's industrious and decided he'd try building a fence with posts instead. Bob had access to some 10 foot posts he knew would work well. A hot wire was installed two feet high, and monofilament fishing line spaced in foot increments. It turned out to be an inexpensive way to keep the deer out.

Bob used six posts and installed a small access door to his basic herb garden. The clear fishing line doesn't make the fence an unsightly obstruction. Building a deer fence was relatively easy for my friend. I hope you'll find a resolution to your deer problems too.

Oregano - Herb of the Week - Oregano Mouthwash

2006-04-01T23:02:00.000-08:00

Sometimes referred to as the "pizza herb", my herb of the week is oregano. This perennial produces greenish-gray leaves with purple and pink flowers in the summer. A perfect addition to the basic herb garden. I've used it as ground cover for an attractive effect. More commonly though, this herb is used in many culinary dishes with an Italian flair, such as pizza, tomato based sauces, eggplants, and meats.

Oregano seeds should be sewn outdoors in the spring after the last frost. Planting in a well-drained location will yield the best results. Space these plants 12 inches apart and wait for seed germination, which usually takes around 7 to 14 days. It's best to harvest these plants by cutting fresh leaves as needed or just before the flowers bloom.

While oregano tastes great on our favorite Italian dishes, it also has many medicinal uses, such as a cure for sinusitis or throat inflammation. For inflammation of the mouth and throat, an oregano based mouthwash will help alleviate the symptoms. In 1 1/2 cups of boiling water add 2 tablespoons of the dried herb or four tablespoons of the fresh oregano leaves. Cover and steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain off the remaining herbs and allow your mouthwash mixture to cool. Use this warm liquid to gargle three to five times daily.

Whether eaten on your favorite foods, or used for its practical medicinal values, oregano is a versatile plant that should be in any basic herb garden.

Kitchen Tip: Dry Your Own Herbs

2006-03-31T19:23:00.000-08:00

If you're like me, sometmes you grow too many fresh herbs in the garden. Martha Stewart offers some great advice for drying a partial amount of the herbs.

'When you buy a bunch of fresh herbs and need only a bit, here's how to save the rest.

How It's Done
Wrap a piece of kitchen twine around the stems, creating a loop. Hang the bunch, upside down, in a cool, dry place. Most herbs will take from four to ten days to dry. Once they're crisp, pick leaves from stems, and place in a tightly sealed jar. Label and date.

Store in a cool, dark place; dried herbs will keep for about six months.

Note: Use this technique to dry sturdy herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage.'

Read more at Kitchen Tip: Dry Your Own Herbs

Medicinal Uses of Oregano - Pizza, Lasagna, Spaghetti Sauce

2006-03-31T09:16:00.000-08:00

While oregano is known to spice up favorite foods such as pizza, lasagna, and spaghetti sauce, the medicinal uses oregano offers are also quite valuable. A few of them include the following:

Alleviating Upset Stomach:

Indigestion:

Bloating and flatulence:

Toothaches:

Coughing:

Antigungal Agents:

Oregano oil

I usually grow Greek oregano in my herb garden. This white-flowered variety offers a more flavorful, pungent taste to some of my favorite foods. It's actually best if this plant is harvested before the flowers are allowed to bloom. I've found that the leaves have their best flavor at this time of maturity. Drying the herb, rather than using it fresh, actually increases the intensity of flavor. I store mine in the refrigerator using the same method for drying as I do basil.

So the next time you eat too much pizza, you might remember some of the medicinal uses oregano brings us. Herbs can be utilized in a plethora of ways. Whether you're cooking, or curing an ailment, growing and using your own herbs is fun and rewarding.

Experience Colon Cleanse - Homemade Colon Cleanse

2006-03-29T20:30:00.000-08:00

Using a medley of herbs grown in the basic herb garden, combined with other essential ingredients to experience colon cleanse regularly, is just one other way to stay healthy. The body needs natural foods to help the digestive system stay toxin free. Detoxification of the body using natural methods stimulates the colon and small intestines.

To experience colon cleanse on a regular basis I use the following basic recipe. Remember to consult with your physician before starting a homemade colon cleanse. The herbs I use have been grown in my garden and then dried.

Homemade Colon Cleanse Recipe

2 ounces freshly pressed apple juice

8 ounces water

1 teaspoon dried fresh mint

1 teaspoon dried or fresh basil

1 teaspoon dried or fresh parsley

1 tablespoon Bentonite clay

1 teaspoon Metamucil

Mix the ingredients together and drink. The faster you do this the better, as the cleanse tends to solidify. Immediately after, drink 8 more ounces of water combined with 1 tablespoon vinegar, and 1 tsp. honey to cut the bitter taste. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

It's been my experience, colon cleanse done regularly, promotes improved digestion, alleviates constipation, and keeps those harmful toxins from accumulating in the body. My energy level always increases after a refreshing colon cleanse. I hope the homemade colon cleanse boosts your energy levels too.

How to Grow Chamomile for the Basic Herb Garden

2006-03-29T07:13:00.000-08:00

Chamomile is an excellent choice for the basic herb garden. It's dried flowers are used in tea and oils. There are two major varieties. German Chamomile, which is an annual that generally grows around 3 feet high. Roman Chamomile, the second variety, is a perennial which only grows to around five to 12 inches tall. I enjoy planting this type between decorative rocks, and placing them on a garden paths.

Planting chamomile can be done two basic ways in the herb garden. This plant is a reseeder, so scatter your seeds on top of the soil and they will naturally seed themselves. If you are planting actual plants however, choose ones that look healthy. A full set of leaves and no flowers is best. This allows growth focus on the roots.

The location for planting should have plenty of sun, and a good drainage system for the soil.

I sprinkle my seeds in the spring after the last frost. Usually the seeds are spread about 5 inches apart. Chamomile is also a spreader, so plan for that. Its an excellent ground covering plant.

Fertilize regularly and pick dead flowers as needed to allow new bloom growth.

This plant can really take off when it starts growing. Pruning a few times a month should easily keep it under control. The beautiful flowers produced will add a nice addition to your basic herb garden.

5 Natural Herbs for Hair Loss Prevention

2006-03-28T15:40:00.000-08:00

My herb of the week, chamomile, along with rosemary, sage, catnip, and burdock root are five natural herbs used as a treatment for hair loss prevention. I lost my hair years ago. My search for a cure for hair loss ended then. If you're lucky enough to still have your hair, and want to keep it, using these herbs in the following fashion may just help. First though, we need to understand a few things about hair growth and loss.

Alopecia, a medical term for hair loss, occurs on various areas of the scalp. Hair is a living protein which receives its nourishment from our blood. Stimulating the scalp promotes circulation and prevents hair loss. Hair loss causes can occur from stress, shock to the body, or illness. I was involved in an auto accident years ago. My hair fell out in clumps after the accident. I was losing my hair before this anyway, but it sure didn't help. So what can you do to prevent hair loss? Here's a simple remedy.

It's not really a hair loss shampoo, but more of a hair loss rinse. Take the five natural herbs for hair loss and try the following remedy.

Boil 1 tbsp. of each herb, dried, in approximately two cups of water for 15 minutes. Let the rinse cool until lukewarm. Next, strain the hair rinse and apply to your scalp with a massaging technique for five minutes. The natural ingredients of each herb should add strength to your hair follicles and you should gain circulatory benefits from the massaging. Repeat this every time you wash your hair. These natural herbs for hair loss prevention are just one more way herbs provide healthy benefits to the body.

Herb Gardening Pot - Liven Up Your Patio

2006-03-28T11:33:00.000-08:00

Why not try an herb gardening pot if you're limited on space for that next gardening project? Herbs are easily planted in small places. My daughter decided on stackable pots in her apartment. A real space saver. An excellent way to liven up your patio, balcony, or windowsill, is by planting herbs in a pot.

You can probably find a great looking gardening herb pot at your local Home and Garden store or nursery. If you're looking for some ideas on how to use these pots, I found the book, Colorful Container Gardens: Vibrant Schemes for Pots and Plantershad a number of ideas. It's not specifically for herb gardening. For that, I highly recommend, Your Backyard Herb Garden. A reference for growing herbs, I refer to it quite frequently. These books used in combination will earn you that green thumb in no time if you don't already have one.

I recently picked up a bright orange herb gardening pot for my patio. I'm into bright colors. I should probably live in southern Florida where not only flower pots, but houses have an array of colorful schemes.

You can grow your herb garden just about anywhere. Try planting in an herb gardening pot. Add not only the natural colors of your plants, but a contrasting or complementary decor to your patio or front porch.

Health Benefit of Chamomile Tea

2006-03-28T09:57:00.000-08:00

Is there a health benefit of chamomile tea intake? Well, yes. Informative studies on the positive benefits of using natural herbs from the garden are being initiated.

For instance, the substance chamazulene has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on cells. Studies on two flavonoid compounds, apigenin and chrysin, explored possible mechanisms for the sedating effect the substance has on rats.

I've stated that my two uses for growing chamomile is for the healthy, calming effect produced by drinking it as a tea, and just for the beauty of the flower. Professional views on the calming effects validate my own experience with this plant.

Among the findings were significant increases in two substances, glycine and hippurate, after study participants drank chamomile tea. Elaine Holmes, a chemist at Imperial College London and one of the study’s authors, explained in an email communication that glycine and other inhibitory amino acid neurotransmitters have been shown to have an antispastic effect.

Tom keeps telling you to use those natural herbs like chamomile, because herbal remedies not only taste great, but they are part of a healthy lifestyle.

“This is one of a growing number of studies that provide evidence that commonly used natural products really do contain chemicals that may be of medicinal value,” Holmes stated for an ACS news release on the study. She added, “The healthcare industry is placing increasing emphasis on functional foods including natural remedies, yet little work has been conducted on the long-term effects of such products on human biology.” The new chamomile tea study provides a method of analysis that allows these effects to be studied more effectively.

There definitely is a health benefit of chamomile tea consumption on the body. Drinking chamomile tea and growing it calms the body and the spirit.

Chamomile Tea Effects - Herb of the Week

2006-03-28T09:22:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered how chamomile tea effects the body? Along with a whole host of other herbal tea drinkers, I've used this medicinal herb for its calming effects on the body fairly successfully. Chamomile is an herb originally found in the warmer climates of southern Europe and northern Africa. It has been used for years as a way to reduce muscle spasms in the body, and as an ingredient in perfumes.

A regular routine of drinking this popular herbal tea aids in flushing amino acids from the system. This has an effect of relaxing the muscles and relieving the feelings of stress. Plus it tastes great! The word chamomile, is derived from the Greek word for ground apple. Its aftertaste does remind me of this fruit. We grow a few apples here in Washington state.

Are there any side effects of chamomile tea intake? Some people do have allergic reactions or to this herb. Obviously, before drinking it for prolonged periods you should know if you have an allergy. Allergic reactions to chamomile usually occur in people allergic to different forms of pollen. If you're pregnant, you should also be cautious about adding anything with possible medicinal effects to your body.

I've personally used chamomile tea to reduce stomach cramps. It's also helped my digestive system. I've learned to enjoy natural form grown in my basic herb garden and tend to avoid dietary supplements

If you've never grown chamomile, you should give this beautiful flower a try. The chamomile flower is a white and yellow gift from mother nature. I've grown it alongside my Echinacea plants for a colorful contrast. The dried flowers of the chamomile plant contain the active ingredients for herbal teas, oils, and perfumes.

Unless you're allergic to this widely used herb, chamomile tea effects your body in a positive way. The relief of stress and muscle cramps from chamomile is a definite benefit. For the gardener, the beauty the chamomile flower provides is an enjoyable addition to your herb garden.

Herbs and spices extracts could be natural antioxidants

2006-03-27T10:54:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for an easy to maintain herb to place in your basic herb garden, basil is definitely a wise choice. I recently posted about my "Herb of the Week, Basil", and it's healthy benefits. I ran across an interesting study recently.

"Extracts from laurel and basil are promising alternatives to synthetic antioxidants says new research from Finland.

Interest is growing in plant-derived food additives as replacements to synthetic antioxidants like butylhydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylhydroxytoluene (BHT) to slow down the oxidative deterioration of food.

In the new study, published in the journal Food Chemistry (Vol. 97, pp. 122-129), extracts of nine difference herbs and spices were tested for their antioxidant activity and phenol content, compounds shown to be potent antioxidants.

Extracts were obtained for basil, laurel, parsley, juniper, aniseed, fennel, cumin, cardamom and ginger.

To make the extracts suitable as food additives, the hydrodistillation method was used to remove the essential oils from the herbs and spices that carry the intrinsic flavour.

Imagine the benefits you'd receive by eating the actual herb.

The highest concentrations of phenols were found in basil (147 mg/g) and laurel (92 mg/g).

Perhaps unsurprisingly, given the phenol concentrations, the greatest antioxidant activities were for basil and laurel, for all of the assays except the iron chelation assay.

Basil is generally thought of as a staple plant in your basic herb garden. This study helps validate its healthy attributes.

Whitetail Deer Repellents for the Gardener - Wireless Deer Fence

2006-03-25T22:33:00.000-08:00

I recently spoke with my aunt and uncle about their use of whitetail deer repellents and the wireless deer fence in their garden. Deer can be a gardener's worst enemy. These foraging animals can grab a mouth full of your precious plants before you even know what has happened. The whitetail deer is one of the most common species in the United States. This deer became a problem for my relatives. Deer can eat a large amount of food.

My relatives live near a Greenbelt. Their home is situated right behind an area designated for the protection of wild animals and the environment. It really is a beautiful area. The challenge is that in this urban neighborhood the deer are not frightened. They are protected from hunting and quickly become accustomed to people. So if you're like my aunt and uncle, and trying to grow a garden in your backyard, it becomes extremely difficult keeping the deer away from the fruits of your labor. It doesn't take long for deer to cause an extreme amount of damage. In the case my relatives, deer were invading at night. Vegetable plants, herbs and fruits were being eaten to the ground. My aunt and uncle went on the search for whitetail deer repellents.

There were many options available. A natural way of repelling the deer would be growing plants that the deer would not like the taste of. That really wasn't practical. Natural or chemical repellents could also be used. Deer have a keen sense of smell. It's one of the best ways that they protect themselves from danger. Coyotes will prey on deer if they find a weak deer in the herd. Generally deer stay away from coyotes. So, one of the repellents my aunt and uncle considered was called "coyote urine". You spread this deer repellent around were you think the deer are concentrating. Another product to be used in combination with this product is called liquid guard. It keeps the coyote urine from washing away or drying up in the sun. There are other repellents in this category ranging from bags of human hair to lion feces.

They also looked into the option of ultrasound devices. They decided against these as they read the deer quickly learned these products were no threat to them. Another group of products that they passed on created loud noises when the deer would approach. Obviously this was not acceptable in a public neighborhood. My aunt and uncle contemplated building a tall fence to protect their garden. They soon found out though, that a ten foot fence was against the homeowners community guidelines of their neighborhood. My uncle grew up on the farm. He wondered if there were such a product as an electric fence for deer. He came across a product called the "wireless deer fence". It seemed like of all the whitetail deer repellents he looked at, this was the best. By sticking a poll in the ground and putting a few pellets in it to attract deer, the deer gets a harmless shock. My uncle tried the product along with the coyote urine. The combination of these "whitetail deer repellents" has seemed to work for him. I hope that you find a solution to your deer nuisance problems.

How to Use Grow Lights for the Basic Herb Garden

2006-03-25T16:28:00.000-08:00

My nephew recently asked me how to use grow lights for growing the basic herb garden, which would give him access to fresh herbs all year. I'm glad to see that he's starting to eat a more natural and healthy diet and learn about herb gardening at the same time. He's watched and helped me for years with my own gardening endeavors, and decided to try something basic for himself. The challenge is his location. He lives in a basement apartment which doesn't receive an abundant amount of light. He has a small garden plot outside of his patio that is designated for his herb garden. Wanting to get a good start on the seedlings, he's decided to start growing the herb garden indoors.

For growing herbs indoors, I thought that fluorescent lighting would probably do the trick. There are other types of lighting systems such as high-intensity discharge and incandescent lighting. For this purpose, he was looking for a grow light that wouldn't take up too much room, yet do its job in giving the seedlings a good start. One of the advantages of using the fluorescent grow light is that it releases less heat making it a safer method. He decided to place the seedlings in his laundry room. You initially want to place your seedlings in a warm place. When the seeds sprout you gradually increase the amount of light they get. This has worked best for me. You don't want to fry them as they emerge. I don't think that room gets used much, so this location was probably a good choice. Fluorescent lighting is ideal for a small gardening project such as this. The light given off from fluorescent bulbs can be as much as three times the intensity of incandescent lighting. This is true even with similar wattage output. It may take some trial and error to determine how to use grow lights to their best advantage. Having a good plan before you purchase them and exploring all the possibilities they offer is usually a good idea.

So my nephew and I set off to find the appropriate appropriate grow light for his herb garden seedlings. A successful basic herb garden, or any gardening project for that matter, should receive anywhere from around 1500 to 3000 lumens per square feet. If you start your garden indoors, you obviously don't have the advantage of the naturally high lumens put out directly by the sun. We decided on purchasing a 4 ft. cool white fluorescent grow light for the project. This would put out around 6000 lumens in a 1 to 2 foot square area. Perfect for his herb garden seedlings! Within no time at all we had the basic supply of light needed in his little laundry/nursery room. Seeds were planted, watered, and he was on his way to eating healthy. Showing him how to use grow lights, planting the seeds, and preparing for an abundant supply of fresh herbs throughout the year was a fun way to spend the afternoon.

Herbal Diet Tea - Growing Your Own Herbs

2006-03-24T23:33:00.000-08:00

I was reading an interesting article on the fact or fiction of herbal diet tea. It got me thinking. I know that many people take herbal supplements in the United States and probably throughout the world. I for one am a strong believer in eating natural or organic herbs. Different types of herbs can have a various array of influences on a person's body chemistry. Herbs can affect how you sleep (how do you feel after drinking a home brewed cup of chamomile herbal tea or fresh mint herbal tea), your digestive system, interact with your immune system (echinacea), change your energy level, and definitely interact with medications you may be taking. Herbal remedies and herbal supplements are not to be taken lightly. I would always advise consulting a professional botanist or your doctor before trying any type of herbal remedy. This is especially true if you have a medical condition.

Components of herbal supplements are concentrated specifically with the benefit of the recipient in mind. Although, as with any man-made products they are synthesized. This is not natural. Tom Greenthumb says, grow your own herbs. Drinking an herbal diet tea probably won't hurt you, but eating natural organically grown herbs will definitely be beneficial to the way your body feels.

I do believe that herbal medicine has its place in your diet. Herbs are a natural and wonderful gift. I will be talking more about herbal tea and other uses of herbs and herbal components in the future. I will even post an herbal remedy or two.

So, I encourage you to explore and gather as much information about herbal diet tea, herbal supplements, and herbal remedies as you can. Knowledge is power. The Chinese have been using herbs for years, and they are experts when it comes to herbal medicine.

Flatulence Cure for Your Pet Dog

2006-03-23T19:14:00.000-08:00

Spring is officially here and you decided to learn about herb gardening. One of the desirable herbs to learn about is my herb of the week, dill. Dill is an annual which can grow as high as three feet. This herb is known for its assistance in the digestive system. I've known people to take a couple of teaspoons of dill seeds that they have crushed finely, stick them in hot water for 15 minutes or so, and drink the liquid as an aid for digestion. I've never tried it. It sounds like it would be soothing though.

I'm ready to get out into the garden and plant some dill seed. I'll probably plant a row about three feet long. I like to give it away as gifts. Long ago in my quest to learn about herb gardening, I learned that dill seed goes a long way in growing dill herb. I usually have it coming out my ears. That's okay the dog likes it. Actually, I might try that remedy for a smoother digestive system on my dog. If it's a cure for flatulence, he needs it! You never know what you'll learn about herb gardening with Tom Greenthumb

Learn About Herb Gardening Recipes

2006-03-22T20:53:00.000-08:00

Years ago, when I first set out to learn about herb gardening, I really didn't know where to go for help. I was probably around the age of nine or ten. The internet was not around. I spent most of my time in the garden. Pulling weeds was the tough part. Growing herbs, flowers, and vegetables was the payoff. We lived by a nice lady who was a wonderful cook. Her recipes were fantastic. One day I asked her to show me how to make one of my favorite dips. She was patient and let me make the complete recipe. As follows,

Dill Cucumber Dip

2 1/2 cups plain or vanilla yogurt

1 large cucumber, seeded and finely chopped

1 tablespoon coarsely-ground salt

1 quarter lemon wedge squeezed for the juice, no seeds

3 tablespoons dill

3/4 cup sour cream

1 garlic clove, finely diced

1 teaspoon olive oil

To Prepare: Combine ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Is that easy or what? It's easy to learn about gardening recipes when you end up with a dip as good as this. It makes it extra tasty, like the dip recipe, if you have grown your own fresh herbs and added them to your garden recipe.

Dill: Herb of the Week

2006-03-20T19:16:00.000-08:00

Derived from the saxon word "dilla", which stands for "soothe", dill is my herb of the week. It's believed that this herb has a calming effect on the digestive tract, hence the "soothe" name derivative. Interesting, huh. This herb is one of the easier herbs to grow. I would highly recommend it for those herb enthusiasts just beginning plans for herb garden sites. With a flavor all it's own, dill is generally used with fish (olive oil and dill grilled on the barbeque), dips, on salads, or with soups. It's also used in pickling. I enjoy mine with a little yogurt sometimes as an accompaniment to a main course. No, I'm not Greek, but I love Greek food.

I usually plant my dill seeds early in cooler weather here in Washington State. I space my seeds about every four inches. This little guy is not easily transplanted. A full day of sun usually produces the best results for this plant though. I have never used it for medicinal uses. I believe it's best as a culinary compliment.

Say, butter...

Dijon Dill butter

3/4 cup melted butter

3 teaspoons dijon mustard

2 tablespoons finely chopped dill

Combine ingredients until well blended. Enjoy!

Plans for Herb Garden Sites

2006-03-20T15:42:00.000-08:00

It's relatively easy designing plans for herb garden sites. Your first decision is location. Do you have an available spot outside? Would you be better off with an indoor herb garden? What herbs should you choose?

The preceding questions must first be answered before plans for herb garden sites can be drawn up. Once you've decided on these factors, it's time to choose your herbs. Are you planning on using them in food you prepare? Will they be strictly for aesthetic beauty? Many people grow or take echinacea for the health benefits it is suggested to have. Why I've even seen echinacea aromatherapy candles. In my perennials garden echinacea is planted for its beautiful and vibrant color. Your next decision relies on soil quality.

Does the soil you want to plant your herbs in have a decent drainage system? Will you need to add supplements or fertilizers. Answer these questions and you will be on your way to creating plans for herb garden sites you can enjoy for a lifetime

Beginner Herb Gardening - Location, Location, Location

2006-03-18T11:08:00.000-08:00

An excellent way to learn about herb gardening, and transition from beginner herb gardening to that of a seasoned pro, is basically trial and error. You just have to do it. Herbs are easy to grow and can provide a fresh array of accompaniment to your meals. What better way to zest up your food than by having a full-time selection of basil, oregano, or mint at your side?

There are of course a few items of preparation you want identify before selecting the herbs for your garden. Whether you're a "beginner herb gardening" novice or earned your green thumb, your first consideration is location. As with most plants, each herb has it's own needs for a proper environment in which to thrive. Does the area catch an abundant amount of sun during the day? Or is there a shady spot you'd like to utilize? Here's a list of popular herbs that need a full day of sun.

More Sun required:

Basil: Tastes great as a compliment with fish, poultry, and beef dishes. An Italian favorite.

Dill

Garlic

Lavender

Lemon Grass

Mint

Oregano

Rosemary

Sage

Tarragon

Thyme

As with most plants you'll have to experiment on location. I have an area that has sun hitting it all day, but the soil needs some improvement. That is another topic of course. I've found that the following herbs grow well in my region, Washington State, with less sun.

Partial shade dwellers:

Chives

Cilantro

Coriander

Lemon Balm

Parsley

Turmeric

Rosemary

Sage

Tarragon

Thyme

Have fun playing with the location of your herbs. They are relatively inexpensive to grow. If one herb doesn't work well in your chosen area then try a different one. I was at a local grocery last week and they were selling herb starters for $5. It had three different varieties as I recall. Beginner herb gardening really isn't that difficult. What a simple way to get started!

Echinacea: Learn about Herb Gardening

2006-03-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

A colorful way to learn about herb gardening can be done by growing my herb of the week, echinacea. While I have stated that my main purpose for growing it has been to add beauty to my herb garden, I thought it would be prudent to delve into the subject of its medicinal values also. Almost all of the scientific studies regarding Echinacea herb gardening seeds have been completed in Germany. Herbs are governmentally regulated in that country. From my research, it seems that most studies are inconclusive as to whether this herb actually does have the properties with which to boost the immune system.

Echinacea purpurea, the most common type, can be found in most health food stores. It comes in many different forms ranging from teas, tablets, or tinctures. Studies show that of the nine varieties grown in the United States that the purpurea plant's leaves, and pallida root are the most commonly used. As with most plants, there are some structural components of Echinacea that may boost the immune system. In my research as I learn about herb gardening, I've seen some studies show that it may have an effect on a person's immunity system and other studies where it doesn't. The difference seemed to be if the herb was injected or not. Obviously you won't be buying an injectable form from your local health food store. I would also not advise injecting Echinacea you grow for yourself. So how much should a person take? What form is best to take? As with most supplements in the United States, the government has set no standard on its use. I've seen where it is advised to take this supplement no longer than eight weeks. Some say that it loses its effectiveness after that period of time. As with any supplement, you should probably contact a professional in the field of herbal medicine, or medical doctor before taking it in any form. This is especially true if you have any diseases related to your immune system. AIDS, MS, leukemia, tuberculosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and pregnancy are conditions with which it should not be tried.

Personally, I never get sick. Ever. I also don't get colds. I think the best thing that a person can do for themselves is to eat as much natural foods as they can. If you can grow your own in the garden that's ideal. Stick with the outer aisles of your supermarket where the vegetables are located. We've become a society where fast and processed food is the norm. If you feel a cold coming on, drink plenty of liquids and get a good night's rest. Those are probably the best things you can do to help your body feel good. Garden and grow Echinacea for the beauty of it. You'll be getting exercise, learn about herb gardening, and have something aesthetically pleasing for your efforts.

Child Gardening Set

2006-03-15T10:15:00.000-08:00

I've talked before about the benefits learned from having your child gardening along with you. A great way to get your little one started is with the Wee Enchanted Garden Kit by the great group at Imaginarium. This is more of a craft kit than an actual gardening set. The kit comes with a set of paints and planter for your child or grandchild. They'll be able to plant and watch the growth of grass and bean seeds. There's also stones, shells, and mini figures included to decorate the planter. You could try other seeds in the kit if you'd like. I included some mint herb along with mine I gave as a gift. That way when it came time to "cut the grass", my niece could eat the clippings if she wanted. Recommended for ages 7+, I believe someone as young as 5 would enjoy this with some adult supervision. Watching seeds you plant and grow is a fascinating process to watch whether you're young or old.

Man Coughs Up Nail 35 Years After Gardening Accident

2006-03-14T19:52:00.000-08:00

Man Coughs Up Nail 35 Years After Accident
Published by Jason Kobely, Internet News Producer

In 1970, a bizarre gardening accident embedded a small nail deep inside Guy "Bud" Hart's body.

More than 35 years later, the nail made an unexpected return, much to Hart's surprise.

The Placerville man was stunned earlier this month when a coughing fit expelled the inch-long sliver of metal, completing its decades-long trek inside the 84-year-old's body.

"I didn't think something like that could happen," Hart said.

The story of Hart and his unexpected passenger began in Minnesota back in 1970. While mowing grass one day, Hart felt a slight pain in his throat and saw a small trickle of blood.

"It was like a bee sting," Hart said. "But I didn't think much of it."

Hart wasn't overly alarmed, but just hours later, the discomfort began.

"The next day, when I coughed, it was like I had a hot knife in there, cutting me," Hart said.

His family rushing him to the hospital with a 105-degree temperature. There, doctors found the culprit, a small nail that had dropped down inside Hart's body cavity and nestled inside his ribcage.

Doses of penicillin helped Hart heal, but since removing the metal would require major surgery and doctors suspected the nail would seal itself off in Hart's body, the foreign object was forgotten for years.

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it," Hart said.

Years later, the nail turned up again on a doctor's x-ray, but again, the unobtrusive item was left alone.

Then, three weeks ago, an internal camera captured an image of the nail during a routine doctor's office visit. But it wasn't in Hart's ribcage area as he'd always thought -- the object was actually in Hart's lung. As Hart and his doctors made plans to remove the nail once and for all, natural physiology took over.

Hart was in the bathroom, brushing his teeth last week when the 35-year partnership finally came to an end.

"I'd been having this tickle in my throat," Hart said. "Pretty soon, I started coughing. And it plopped right out."

Since the pair were separated, Hart's been feeling fine and doctors have no reason to think the nail had any lasting impact on his health.

Hart keeps the nail in a small plastic bag but doesn't have any long-term plans about what to do with the strange artifact.

"Sell it to the Smithsonian Institute?" Hart laughed. "No, I never gave it much thought."

Gardening Boot or Dirty Shoes

2006-03-13T18:54:00.000-08:00

While it was probably fun as a kid to get your shoes dirty sloshing through the muck and mud. As an adult, I like to keep the dirt and mud in the garden, and out of the house by wearing a protective gardening boot. If you don't have an old pair of shoes you can use for the purpose, I found a neat item from the Muck Boot Co. If you're like me, you need a shoe that is both waterproof and resistant to the hazards of garden. These should do the trick. Or you can start a new trend and wear these to weddings or bar mitzvah's.

"Hey Tom. I really like your shoes. They look sharp with your suit."

"Why thanks Bob. These are my muck shoes."

Echinacea: Herb of the Week

2006-03-13T09:38:00.000-08:00

My herb for the week is echinacea. You've probably heard of it. This perennial is an herb that has been used by many people to treat or prevent colds. A stronger immune system is believed to be the benefit of echinacea. It's also been known for its use on acne or other maladies of the skin. It can be used in its dry form or as a liquid. A person might add it to their tea.

Personally, I have grown echinacea root for its vibrant, purple color. Blooming time is generally between the months of June and October, and full-grown plants average around three feet in size. If you're looking to add some color to your herb garden, I'd definitely suggest this beauty. You may even reap the benefits of better health by using it in a few of the ways suggested above. Though, always remember to consult your doctor before adding anything supplemental to your diet, and watch for allergies.

Gardening and Children - Basic Herb Garden

2006-03-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

Gardening is an excellent project for children. Not only do they learn the responsibility of taking care of their own little garden, which means weeding and keeping it watered, but they can have fun doing it.

Herbs are easy plants to grow and they offer both culinary and medicinal uses when harvested. I would suggest a basic herb garden as a way to get them interested in gardening.

Make it the kids' decision when choosing what plants should be grown. Watermelons was always something I tried growing when I was young. With limited success. While it wasn't the easiest plant to grow, it taught me some simple aspects of gardening. Soil condition, climate, sunlight, all played a role in which plants I chose. Basil or oregano could be suggested. Use the leaves later in a homemade spaghetti sauce. Lavender and chamomile would be two more types of herbs that would not only be colorful, but you could show the children how to make homemade tea.

Next time your children claim they are "bored", head down to the nursery and buy some seeds. Plant the seeds in your basic herb garden , and produce something nutritious while you and the children have fun doing it.

Basil: Herb of the Week

2006-03-02T09:03:00.000-08:00

One of the most popular herbs to grow is Basil. I'm going to begin with it as my "Herb of the Week". Learning about herb gardening is beneficial in a variety of ways. Gardening your own herbs allows you to add extra flavor to the foods you prepare and some herbs even have medicinal health benefits.

Basil is probably so popular as it compliments fish, poultry and beef dishes so well. My favorite recipe is Tomato, Basil and Cheese Baked Pasta.

Basil prefers heat. No, I'm not talking about the kind of heat you find in "holy basil", a popular type of herb used in Thai cooking. Spicy and good. Can you say yum? When I say heat, I'm speaking of sun.
You'll need around 6-8 hours of direct sunlight at a minimum to produce a thriving plant. They come in many varieties. Thai and Dark Opal are a few I enjoy. These plants can reach 4 feet in width and height.

As with most herbs, they are best kept dried for longer storage. Here's a handy tip. When your crop is ready to cut, place the cuttings in between scott towels. The towels can be put inside your refrigerator until the drying process is complete. This shouldn't take more than a couple weeks to mature. Store the dried basil in your refrigerator in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag. You'll then have your own supply of basil to use with your favorite dishes throughout the year.

Rosa Rugosa: The Easy Rose to Grow

2006-02-24T22:18:00.000-08:00

The Rosa Rugosa variety of rose is the perfect choice for the beginning rose gardener. These are beautiful, sprawling shrubs which reach four to six feet high and wide. Perfect for the rose enthusiast limited on time. This plant can thrive just about anywhere. It even grows in areas of poor soil or sandy beaches. This flowering plant is primarily found in Washington state and some of the Northeastern states.

Bionic Gardening Gloves for Arthritis in the Hands

2006-02-22T12:07:00.000-08:00

I first noticed Bionic Gardening Gloves because they were recommended by the Arthritis Foundation, and my battle with arthritis in hands and joints has become more prominent as I've gotten older. I've eaten herbs such as ginger which help act as an anti-inflammatory and increases circulation. If you've got arthritis in your hands like myself, or are just plain tired of getting stuck by those nasty thorns when pruning your rosebushes, bionic gardening gloves may be for you. The same designers of the world-famous Louisville slugger bat have produced these line of gloves.

Designed for men's and women's hands, and with multiple patents to their name, these gloves offer a design with fit, performance, and flexibility. Arthritis pain can sometimes stop a person from doing what they enjoy. I'll try about anything to keep active. Some interesting facts I obtained courtesy of the Arthritis Foundation include the fiollowing:

2005 – 66 million (nearly 1 in 3 adults) -- 42.7 million have doctor-diagnosed arthritis and 23.2 million people live with chronic joint symptoms, but have not been diagnosed by a doctor

Arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic health problems and the nation’s leading cause of disability among Americans over age 15.

Arthritis is second only to heart disease as a cause of work disability.

Arthritis limits everyday activities such as walking, dressing and bathing for more than 7 million Americans.

When I first heard about the extended wear bionic gloves I became instantly intrigued. The term "bionic" had me thinking back to Lee Majors and the television show. These gloves are ergonomically designed with extended wear in mind. Arthritis in hands and joints can curb the joy of working outside with your plants. I was obviously skeptical before buying a pair. After wearing the bionic gloves I noticed less fatigue in my hands. I put a lot of wear and tear on my tools and these gloves have held up extremely well. For a guy with arthritis in the hands who also loves gardening, these are a blessing.

Check them out!

Raised Gardens - Making Raised Beds

2006-02-17T12:11:00.000-08:00

So where's the best place to locate your raised bed garden? Well, generally you'd like to find a space that has an adequate amount of light hitting it. A full day of sunshine would be ideal, but 6 to 9 hours will do. I had my garden raised in such a spot to catch an extra hour of sunlight by adding a few extra loads of dirt. You also want to use a spot that allows for drainage. You want moisture to reach the roots of your plants. Water sitting on top of the soil is of no use in your garden. If you don't have such a spot, you can always create a raised garden.

I've used cinder blocks when making raised beds in an area as small as three feet. The garden bed can be as high as you like. This can create easier maintenance since you are dealing with a compact space. Fewer weeds, more efficient use of the soil, and nutrients make it ideal. What will you plant?

You'll definitely need to add soil to the garden plot. If you're like me you can head out to the wheat fields and use your own soil. If you're not as fortunate, try buying your soil in bulk from nurseries. When making raised beds it's your biggest cost besides the material used to create the structure.

Wildflower Seeds

2006-02-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make. I love wildflowers. While your local nursery probably carries many different varieties of vegetable and flower seeds, it might be fun planting what they don't offer. Wildflowers are unique and abundant in all regions of the United States. You may just find a variety that does well in your area. Have fun!

Low Maintenance Gardening

2006-02-14T08:31:00.000-08:00

Low Maintenance Gardening

January 14, 2006

There can be many reasons why one would choose low maintenance gardening. A couple of the factors include the work needed to maintain your garden, and your available space. I had an available spot next to my outside patio which was perfect for a small garden. It measures around 6' X 6'. The area had not been used or utilized for anything. Before I did any planting, I had to prepare the soil. There were a few stones, weeds, and deep roots to remove. I then went to the local nursery and bought a few bags of compost. Breaking up the soil and adding the compost would ensure an environment which would provide drainage and enrichment for my new plants.

I love fresh tomatoes! I decided to have six types of varieties in my low maintenance gardening plan. This was around five years ago, so I don't remember exactly what varieties I chose. Every year since, I just randomly pick different varieties to grow. At the same time, I wanted to keep down the potential weeds that would surface and add some color to my garden. I placed some purple and white alyssum randomly around the plants. This worked well and I have stuck with that plan ever since. I did save a small spot in the corner for some green onions and herbs. Otherwise, the space that was being used for nothing before, has given me an ample supply of tomatoes and color every year since.