Becky's Herb Patch Journal

Ramblings of my garden, in more ways than one!

Friday, May 10, 2002

I know, like I don't have enough things to do already this time of year, I had to start something new, ; )
This journal is basically for keeping notes on what my herbs are doing in my gardens at different times of the year.

Last night, we transplanted numerous catnip seedlings and thinned the larger patches out a bit, they should fill in their spot nicely over the coming weeks.
It's May and the Elecampanes have shown themselves, little sleepy heads wait for warm weather before popping up and it looks like I am going to have to move some around. I just love these plants, they are very impressive when presented properly, they grow huge so you won't want to plant these just anywhere, : ) last year they reached heights over my head (I'm 5'5 btw). Equally as impressive are the leaves on this plant, mammoth! I planted 'bloom-the-same-season-as-planted' hollyhocks under them last year (duh!) and had to constantly cut the lower leaves back just so some sun could get to them. I'm talking some leaf sizes 3 feet long and a good 6 inches wide. A bonus of growing this plant among it's medicinal uses are the flower heads, when dried, they can be cut and used in boquets, but the birds also flock to the seed fluff once it's ready. Most books recommend damp soil for growing, but I have to say, I've planted them in several areas of the yard and I only water when absolutely necessary since we have so many gardens and they do wonderful.

The horehound and mints (can't recall off hand how many varieties I have, but I'd guess at least 10) are taking off with a good start.
The cool spring with moderate rain has made them very happy, just hope they continue that way.

An amazing find yesterday. I normally have Clary Sage in my garden every year, but for some reason, last year I had none (I let them re-seed), well..........a little seed must have lay dormant and is now 3 inches high, so I will be assured of seed for next year at least, but knowing me, I'll have to buy a few more "to keep her company" : )

The Sweet Annie is of course doing grand. I can't recall just when I bought that ONE plant, but in subsequent years, we've had at one time hundreds (and I do mean hundreds) of them.....did some radical pulling in the past couple of years because this stuff is so tenacious and has an attitude that it was covering our drive, but I do so love it and would never be without it's scent, after it rains, there is something so uplifting to pick up that sweet odor. (Be cautioned however, many are allergic to this plant) but it is an odorific addition to a garden if you can handle it (both the allergen potential and the babies, goodness!).

Why did I ever plant Tansy? who's bright idea was that? I've been attempting to erradicate this plant for several years, it's a never-ending battle, but I'll still carry on with the brigade this year, I keep hopes that one year in the future I will be Tansy Free!

I'll close for now, : ) so much to talk about, I better save something for later, don't want to bore you all. If you've read this far, pat yourself on the back from me, : ) You must really like herbs! Happy herbing!!