As spring approaches after a long winter, excitement about gardening is starting to rise. The transition from winter to warmer days sparks our creativity about what we want our summer gardens to look like.
Know your plant hardiness zone
As beautiful as the winters are here in Colorado (where our headquarters are located), I always look forward to the return of the flowers, the planting of seeds, and the thoughts of harvesting. But the growing season can be tricky in Colorado; Given the late frost, temperature fluctuations and little moisture, not every plant will thrive. Make sure that check your zone before planting seeds, as both the timing and type of planting differ in each region.
Fortunately, there are several medicinal plants that will thrive each zone. Let’s explore three herbs that will provide a bountiful harvest in your summer tea garden.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Matricaria recutita, commonly known as Chamomile, is a hardy member of the Daisy family. Characterized by its small white petals, yellow center and feathery leaves, Chamomile stands at a height of one to two feet tall. A beautiful addition to any garden; the scent of chamomile alone makes it worth growing. Chamomile can be easily grown in pots, between rocks or in garden beds and can thrive in multiple environments, including poor quality soil and very dry conditions. The roots do not penetrate deeply; instead, they skim the surface of the soil, making water collection easier in times of drought. Chamomile is not a fan of frost or cold weather during germination and needs a soil temperature of at least 50 degrees to germinate.
Known as the ‘Compassionate Lady of Composites’, Chamomile offers many medicinal benefits that are gentle but effective. Chamomile has the ability to calm and harmonize many different body systems, including the digestive tract, nervous system and mind. In times of emotional distress, Chamomile’s gentle ability to relieve restlessness has been traditionally sought after since the Middle Ages. A fresh infusion of chamomile flowers can support healthy lung function and relieve congestion in the lower respiratory tract. Usually taken as a tea or water infusion, it’s no surprise that more than a million cups of chamomile tea are consumed every day! This herb’s ability to target different systems is quite remarkable, making it a versatile homegrown medicine to have on hand.
Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Ocimum tenuiflorum, or Holy Basil, is a member of the Mint or Lamiaceae family. With an enticing aroma, beautiful purple flowers and bright green leaves, Holy Basil adds an element of tranquility to any garden. The herbaceous shrub grows up to 60 cm high and enjoys the sunniest part of your garden. With minimal fuss, Holy Basil germinates easily from seed and likes well-drained soil. You should avoid planting holy basil in areas where water can collect after summer rains. Like many herbs in the mint family, Holy Basil grows quickly, is not fussy and offers many medicinal leaves to choose from. In Colorado, Holy Basil grows as an annual, but in warmer climates, Holy Basil acts as a perennial with the ability to regrow year after year. This plant’s adaptability in the garden is no surprise, especially when you compare it to its versatility as a medicinal plant.
Native to India and widely used in Ayurvedic practices, Holy Basil is called the ‘Queen of Herbs’. Holy Basil is sought after for its adaptogenic properties and supports the body in dealing with stress and maintaining homeostasis. Perhaps the most magical part of this plant is the spiritual presence it has within the Hindu community, where a home is not complete without a holy basil plant present. The innate wisdom passed down through Ayurvedic beliefs is proven true through current trials and research. It supports healthy cortisol and blood sugar levels, and improving metabolic function is among the many Holy Basil benefits supported by modern science. The combination of innate wisdom and the scientific method is very powerful, proving the medicinal benefits of this plant to be true. The admiration of Holy Basil for both spiritual and medicinal reasons makes it a great addition to any garden.
Feverfew (Leonurus cardiala)
Another member of the Mint family, Leonurus cardiala is also known as Feverfew. Like most members of the Mint family, Motherwort is not very picky about growing conditions. Drought tolerant and able to thrive in sun or shade, Motherwort can grow virtually anywhere. As with Holy Basil, one of the few things Motherwort requires is well-drained soil. This herbaceous perennial grows to a height of five feet tall and will spread quickly if not in a pot or raised garden bed. Characterized by square stems, opposite leaves and lilac colored flowers, this herb is often called ‘Lionheart’. This fast-maturing, somewhat weedy plant will produce for years in your garden.
Given its Latin name, it is no surprise that Motherwort has an affinity with the cardiac system. Leonurus can have a calming effect during periods of restlessness and is usually taken as a heart tonic. One of my favorite aspects of Motherwort is the emotional offering it offers to a broken heart, providing support and grounding in times of need. Historically used as a reproductive herb, there is an emotional connection between the womb and the heart, and Motherwort bridges the gap between the two. Motherwort shows its affection for our reproductive system by supporting a healthy menstrual cycle and helps relieve the discomfort associated with PMS. Because reproductive health is such an important part of life, Motherwort is beneficial for any garden.
Questions to ask for My Zone
What herbs grow well in your climate or zone? Which medicinal plants appeal to you? These are important questions to ask yourself when planning your summer tea garden. Will you be growing in raised beds or sowing in the ground? Growing medicinal herbs can sometimes be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be!
Chamomile, holy basil and feverfew are three herbs that are easy to grow, even for the novice gardener. There is something very special about planting and caring for your own medicinal plants. Gardening is a wonderful way to bring us closer to nature, connect with plants and learn more about their medicinal properties.
References
Brittney Offenburg (she/her) believes in empowerment through education. She attended the Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism, where she studied medical herbalism. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Integrative Healthcare at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Brittney is a Customer Journey Representative at WishGarden Herbs
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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