Oregano and marjoram are two of the most popular herbs used in cuisines around the world. They share a similar taste profile and are frequently used interchangeably. However while closely related, oregano and marjoram are two distinct herbs with some notable differences. Understanding the unique properties of each can help you best utilize them in … Read more
Salvia is a beloved garden plant grown for its long-lasting summer blooms in hues of red, pink, purple, white and more. While you can propagate salvia by cuttings, harvesting and saving seeds is also an easy way to produce new plants for free. Follow some simple steps to collect ripe salvia seeds from your plants … Read more
Mint is a versatile herb that adds fresh flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. From mojitos to mint chocolate chip ice cream this aromatic herb is a kitchen staple. While mint is available year-round, the flavor and quality are best when fresh. During peak season you may find yourself with more mint than you … Read more
Is Catmint Safe for Cats? Understanding This Mint Plant’s Effects Catmint, also known as catnip, is a mint plant that elicits a unique response in many cats. The plant contains a chemical called nepetalactone which triggers a feline reaction ranging from mild interest to an almost narcotic ecstasy This well-known phenomenon has led to catmint … Read more
Nothing quite compares to the taste of fresh garden basil. Its aromatic flavor is a staple in Italian cooking and livens up many dishes. But basil’s growing season is short, leaving you with an abundance to preserve when harvest time arrives. Freezing basil in ice cube trays is an easy way to capture that just-picked … Read more
Lemon balm and lemon verbena are two herbs that are frequently confused due to their similar lemony scent and flavor. However, there are some notable differences between these two plants that are important to understand if you want to cook with them or grow them in your garden. In this article, we’ll take a close … Read more
For lovers of Indian cuisine being able to grow your own spices at home brings dishes to life with fresh, potent flavor. Many aromatic herbs and spices commonly used in Indian cooking can be easily cultivated in backyard gardens or even pots. With homegrown spices on hand you can create authentic Indian dishes bursting with … Read more
You may have heard about the many health benefits of black seed also known as black cumin or Nigella sativa. This ancient medicinal spice has been used for centuries in places like the Middle East Africa, and Asia. But did you know you can easily grow black seed in your own garden? With just a … Read more
Rosemary is an aromatic, versatile herb that most home cooks are familiar with. Its piney, woodsy flavor pairs wonderfully with chicken, fish, lamb, and many other foods. But did you know that rosemary plants also produce showy flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white? Though primarily grown for culinary use, rosemary makes a … Read more
With its low mounds of feathery green leaves and cheerful daisy blooms, Roman chamomile is a delightful addition to any herb garden. This apple-scented plant has been valued since ancient times for its medicinal qualities and culinary uses. But is Roman chamomile actually a perennial? The answer is yes – Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is … Read more