Common Thyme Thyme, a perennial hardy to Zone 4, can be grown from seed in a flat kept at about 55 degrees F. Germination takes three to four weeks. The first year plants will be small and not flower, growing more robust and flowering the second year. Thyme needs good drainage for its deep roots….
Sweet Marjoram This is a tender perennial best grown as an annual in most parts of the U.S. It is hardy to Zone 10. A member of the oregano family, sweet marjoram and oregano are often confused, but their flavors are different. Sweet marjoram can be very susceptible to damping off and can be difficult…
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) comes in many cultivars, and the same cultivar grown on the West Coast may look very different when grown in the Midwest. It is a pungent herb with hints of pine resin. Growing it takes little effort as it is a drought tolerant plant perfect for a rock garden or growing along…
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a biennial plant with bright green, featherlike leaves and is in the same family as dill. This herb is used in soups, sauces, and salads, and it lessens the need for salt in soups. Not only is it the perfect garnish, but it is also healthy; rich in iron and vitamins…
In 2017, National Garden Bureau and Sakata Seed America are partnering to provide $5,000 in grant money to be split among three therapeutic gardens in North America. National Garden Bureau promotes the health and healing powers of human interaction with plants through a yearly grant program for therapeutic gardens. Sakata Seed America is a leader…
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) and its cultivars are the most familiar forms of oregano. This is a perennial hardy to Zone 5 and bloom with rose, purple or white flowers. As such, it makes a good ground cover coming back each season to deliver fresh herbs for the culinary gardener. Oregano is used in a wide…
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) come in several forms, but the most common one has roundish leaves that are used for their onion-like flavor. This perennial member of the onion family is hardy in Zones 3-10. In spring, it has lovely purple flowers made up of masses of florets. Chives are cool-season, cold-tolerant perennials that are planted…
