Grow Your Own Herbal Remedies

Even first time gardeners can grow useful herbs with ease, as they take up little space, do not need fertilizing, and are resistant to diseases and pests.

Medicinal herbs are not demanding and can be grown simply by following the instructions on a seed packet. An even easier option is to buy a slightly larger plant in a small pot and transplant it to the desired spot. You can also collect seeds of wild herbs and sow them in the garden. Some plants, such as rosemary, sage, lavender, and myrtle, are easy to propagate from cuttings.

From mid summer to mid autumn, use a sharp knife or scalpel to cut a young shoot 10 to 15 centimeters long. Make the cut just below a leaf node, where growth promoting cells are concentrated. Choose healthy, vigorous shoots without flower buds. Remove the leaves from the lower third of the stem. You may dip the cuttings in honey, then insert them into a small container filled with potting mix. Water well and cover with a plastic bag to retain moisture and warmth. Vent the cuttings every few days. In a few weeks they will develop roots. Another method is to place the prepared cutting in a glass of water in bright, indirect light and change the water every few days. Within a week or two, roots will form, after which the cutting can be planted in the garden or in a pot. Herbs with creeping roots, such as mint, comfrey, and soapwort, are easiest to propagate by lifting the plant in spring or autumn and cutting the root into pieces five to ten centimeters long, ensuring each segment has growing buds. Plant them in pots or into a prepared compost bed.

For an indoor herb garden, a sunny window and regular watering are essential

Many varieties of medicinal and culinary herbs will thrive on a windowsill. Rotate the pots slightly each day so that all sides receive equal sunlight, and water regularly.

Rock gardens and dry stone walls "warm" plants and help them grow

Most medicinal herbs thrive in a sunny spot sheltered from wind and in sandy soil. Rock gardens and spots beside stone walls are an excellent choice. Stone absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night, which raises the temperature and benefits the plants.

Medicinal and ornamental plants are good companions

Medicinal herbs look beautiful in a flower bed and also protect other plants. For example, lavender planted beneath roses repels aphids, and creeping thyme helps the soil retain moisture.

A houseplant that is more than decorative

Aloe (Aloe vera) is grown like any other houseplant. The gel pressed from its leaves soothes burns and helps with wounds, scratches, psoriasis, eczema, and ulcers.

Bay laurel and rosemary overwinter indoors

In colder regions, rosemary, sage, and bay laurel must be brought indoors for the winter. Older plants can overwinter outdoors if covered with straw or horticultural fleece.