Maintaining a Healthy Edible Garden Organically Most of us have our edible garden planted and anxiously await mother nature to do her thing; however, maintenance is an integral part to a healthy edible garden. Many view maintaining a garden as work, but I don’t – and if you are reading this, you probably don’t either. Numerous studies have shown that gardening is good physical and mental exercise. Container gardening is growing in popularity because you can grow practically anything, anywhere. You can control your potted plant’s environment far more easily than you can with plants tucked into the ground; however, my tips are conducive for both container gardening and plot…
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Worldly Spices and Flavors
As home cooks and gardeners, we know plant growth and agriculture directly relate to geography and climatic conditions. For this reason, herbs and spices directly influence a region’s culinary fare. When creating delicious dishes at home, it is important home chefs familiarize themselves with the different herbs and spices. Through experimentation and practice, you will find yourself developing a feel for seasonings that will enable you to produce more consistently good flavor in your meals. Basic Principals for Herbs and Spices There are some basic guidelines in using spices and culinary flavors. The most important principal is herbs and spices should enhance the natural flavor of food, rather than dominate…
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7 Types of Basil for Spring Gardening
Basil is one of the most fragrant and easiest of all the herbs to grow in your spring garden. Introduced to England in the 16th century, it made its way to America in the 17th century. It flourishes in the warmth of the Mediterranean countries, where it is so successfully combined with sun-ripened tomatoes. The famous, basil pesto, was created in Genoa (northern Italy), usually consisting of crushed garlic, basil, pine nuts, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, finally blended with olive oil. {aka, Genoese Sauce}. Used in many Italian dishes or to add spring time freshness to any culinary concoction, basil comes in many varieties, each with their own characteristics. 7 Types…
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Autumn Leeks Elevate Mashed Potatoes
Usually harvested in the autumn months, leeks are easy to grow from seedlings and are ready six months after planting. Much like an onion, leeks form a bulb and long, bundle of leaves extend above the ground. Soil must be loose and well-drained. The bulbs of the plant do not tolerate wet soil. As a very hearty vegetable, some varieties can survive during the early winter months, extending their harvest season. Most agree, prolonging harvest will intensify the flavor. Unlike its sister, the onion, leeks have a sweeter, milder flavor and can be a great alternative in the kitchen to the onion in most culinary dishes. Leeks are easy to…
