There is little to compare with the wonderful subtleties of flavor that is gained by using fresh herbs when preparing food. Growing your own herbs is something the whole family can participate in. You don't need a large space. In a small, manageable garden, or a collection of containers you can grow most of the herbs your family will use in a year. Herbs are happy companion plants, they can be grown with your vegetables, annuals, mixed in a perennial border or in mixed containers. They are aesthetically pleasing, often fragrant, as well as useful. The satisfaction of growing your own herbs is immeasurable. Both in the benefits of added flavor and nutrition, as well as in the enjoyment from growing them yourself.
Each year an herb is chosen as the 'Herb of the Year', this year, 2008, Calendula officinalis, Pot Marigold was chosen. A cheerful flower in any garden we often forget about its uses. The flower petals have long been used in Europe to add color to butter and cheese, flavor soups & stews and as a garnish in salads, meat & fish. Medicinally the flower has soothing, healing and atiseptic qualities. Petals are added to creams, soaps and baths for healing and softening the skin. During the American Civil War the leaves were used to treat open wounds. This hardy annual's name comes from the Latin 'kalends' because it was said to be in bloom on the first day of each month, providing a regular supply of petals. It is an herb worth trying if you haven't grown it before. It prefers full sun, tolerates most soils (except overly moist) and readily self seeds. Calendula can be found in the Annual section at Telly's.
Telly's grows an extensive selection of herbs for you to choose from and enjoy. Let our friendly staff know if you need help to choose the right herbs for your garden or container. Ask for a copy of our herb list for more information about Telly's herbs. You can also look for herbs, such as Monarda, Yarrow (achillea) and more in perennials; and plants such as Eucalyptus and Perrilla in the greenhouse or annual departments.
If you have any herbal questions, or want to check on the availability of a specific herb, please contact Telly's at 248-689-8735 or email herbs@tellys.com
