Herbs For Your Garden And A Class To Learn More!

I love to plant herbs in my garden! I am in love with Lavender and smitten with Rosemary. They make me think romantic English cottage garden. Dill, Parsley, and Sage remind me I might like to put fresh herbs in the meals I cook. (It is a great thought, but I rarely cook. Still, you can understand the feelings herbs conjure up for me.) 

The love of an herb garden is universal. According to the 2006 National Gardening Survey, more than 14 million households in the United States grow herbs – in vegetable gardens and perennial gardens, containers and windowsills. I am sure that number is even higher today with all the interest in urban farming. 

While many people use herbs for cooking, there are those, like me, who just love the look and fragrance. Others like the fact they are durable plants and their colorful blooms add much to the look of a garden. 

Herbs are used for medicinal purposes also. Some common know herbs and their medical uses are Chamomile, for sleeplessness, anxiety, and stomach problem; Eucalyptus, is commonly used in over the counter cold and cough medicines; Ginger can relieve nausea; Lavender is traditionally used as an antiseptic: and Rosemary to help with cognitive performance. Google the medical uses for herbs and you will be surprised at what you find! 

Want to learn more about herbs locally? This weekend offers a class on Herbs in its ongoing gardening classes. Spaces are still available for Friday May 24 and Saturday May 25. Call the shop to register at 678-635-8750.The class begins at 10AM and there is a $15 fee. Learn how to plant and care for many of your favorite herb with Hodge Podge's own gardener, Judy Wright. Explore the many uses, both edible and medical. Lunch will be served at the end of the class to show how to use herbs in your favorite dishes. Check out the many herbs for sale in Hodge Podge's Garden Center. 

The sun is warm today, but I plan to be in my garden. I just bought several of my favorite herbs and am anxious to plant them next to my picket fence. Hmmmm, herbs by a picket fence. Does it get more romantic than that?