• Annual plant
• Adds great flavor and color to many culinary creations
• 3 ft. plant with strongly aromatic foliage, stems, and heads
  
• Excellent for fresh pickling
  
• Days to Maturity | 40 - 65 days
  

Additional Details

Dill has a very long history of herbal use going back more than 2,000 years. The seeds are a common and very effective household remedy for a wide range of digestive problems. An infusion is especially efficacious in treating gripe in babies and flatulence in young children. The seed is aromatic, carminative, mildly diuretic, galactogogue, stimulant and stomachic.

Other Medicinal Properties

Dill is also used in the form of an extracted essential oil. Used either in an infusion, or by eating the seed whole, the essential oil in the seed relieves intestinal spasms and griping, helping to settle colic. Chewing the seed improves bad breath. Dill is also a useful addition to cough, cold and flu remedies, it can be used with antispasmodics such as Viburnum opulus to relieve period pains. Dill will also help to increase the flow of milk in nursing mothers and will then be taken by the baby in the milk to help prevent colic.

See Dill Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

• Dukat dill is a particularly fine plant with amazing flavor and large heads.  If you like dill you will love to try this new variety in your garden
   
  
• This variety is darker than most other dill varieties.
  
  
• Excellent fresh or dried.
  
  
• Grown for homemade dill pickles.
  
  
• Can be grown in containers, raised beds, and any other location in full sun.
  
  
• Annual plant.
  
  
• Adds great flavor and color to many culinary creations.
  
  

Additional Details

Dill has a very long history of herbal use going back more than 2,000 years. The seeds are a common and very effective household remedy for a wide range of digestive problems. An infusion is especially efficacious in treating gripe in babies and flatulence in young children. The seed is aromatic, carminative, mildly diuretic, galactogogue, stimulant and stomachic.

Other Medicinal Properties

Dill is also used in the form of an extracted essential oil. Used either in an infusion, or by eating the seed whole, the essential oil in the seed relieves intestinal spasms and griping, helping to settle colic. Chewing the seed improves bad breath. Dill is also a useful addition to cough, cold and flu remedies, it can be used with antispasmodics such as Viburnum opulus to relieve period pains. Dill will also help to increase the flow of milk in nursing mothers and will then be taken by the baby in the milk to help prevent colic.

See Dill Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

See Cardoon Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

Let us tell you about Lettuce Leaf Basil. It’s a lovely Italian basil that grows huge leaves as big as your hand, with a flavor that’s sweeter and less spicy than other basils. Its crinkles hold onto dressing in salads, you need only one leaf for a sandwich or wrap, and you can use the rest as you would any other basil. Save the edible flower spikes to garnish seafood dishes and cocktails.

Harvest the leaves and stems from the top part of the plant, and pinch off edible flower buds as they appear, which prevents the leaves from turning bitter, and signals the plant to branch out and grow more leaves, making a bushier plant. The more you harvest, the more it grows!

• Sweet and mild
• Huge 5"-6" leaves
• Grows 1'-2' tall
• Good for containers
• Tons of medicinal benefits!

As a medicinal herb, Basil has been used internally to treat anxiety, colds, colic, cough, depression, diarrhea, fever, flatulence, flu, indigestion, insomnia, intestinal parasites and worms, exhaustion, gastric pain, gonorrhea, lactation problems, migraine headache, nausea, stomach cramps, sore throat, and vomiting, and externally to treat acne, insect bites and stings, loss of smell, skin problems, snake bites.

⚠️ Do not use medicinally while pregnant.

⚠️ Medicinal properties are presented as information only, and are not a recommendation or prescription for use. Consult a medical professional before using any herb medicinally.

As a companion plant, Basil attracts hummingbirds, pollinators, and beneficial insects, and repels asparagus beetles, cabbage moths, cabbage white butterfly, cabbage worms, carrot rust fly, flies, maggots, mice, mosquitoes, spider mites, thrips, and tomato hornworms.

Health Benefits of Genovese Basil

Basil is a known health tonic for expecting mothers and when mixed with tea it increases lactation in mothers.  It is also a nerve tonic and young children are sometimes encouraged to chew on the leaves of basil because it stimulates brain cells and can increase memory.  

See Basil Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

Licorice Basil is a type of Thai basil with a pleasant, sweet licorice flavor. Beautiful as a fragrant and ornamental accent throughout the garden, and delicious in salads, baked goods, and pasta sauce. It’s also pleasant to look at with deep green leaves that sometimes show a burgundy tinge, plum-colored stems, and lavender flower spikes that make a fun garnish for any salad, dish, or drink.

Harvest the leaves and stems from the top part of the plant, and pinch off edible flower buds as they appear, which prevents the leaves from turning bitter, and signals the plant to branch out and grow more leaves, making a bushier plant.

The more you harvest, the more it grows!

• Sweet, pleasant licorice flavor
• Thai basil type
• Edible ornamental
• Good for containers
• Tons of medicinal benefits!

As a medicinal herb, Basil has been used internally to treat anxiety, colds, colic, cough, depression, diarrhea, fever, flatulence, flu, indigestion, insomnia, intestinal parasites and worms, exhaustion, gastric pain, gonorrhea, lactation problems, migraine headache, nausea, stomach cramps, sore throat, and vomiting, and externally to treat acne, insect bites and stings, loss of smell, skin problems, snake bites.

⚠️ Do not use medicinally while pregnant.

⚠️ Medicinal properties are presented as information only, and are not a recommendation or prescription for use. Consult a medical professional before using any herb medicinally.

As a companion plant, it attracts hummingbirds, pollinators, and beneficial insects, and repels asparagus beetles, cabbage moths, cabbage white butterfly, cabbage worms, carrot rust fly, flies, maggots, mice, mosquitoes, spider mites, thrips, and tomato hornworms. 

This basil variety produces lovely and flavorful green leaves with purple accents.  It has a strong, but enjoyable licorice flavor and can grow up to 24" tall.

What is Licorice Basil?

This basil is a type of Thai Basil, also known as anise basil.  It has strong licorice and anise flavors, qualities and aromatics.  It's known to be slightly "lanky" with pointed green leaves with signature purple flowers. Both the leaves and flowers are edible on this plant.  

Health Benefits of Licorice Basil

Licorice Basil can be used for treating the common cold, the flu, diabetes, asthma, bronchitis, earaches, headaches, upset stomachs, heart disease, fever, and more.  It promotes longevity but something you may not know is that its an excellent mosquito repellent! 

Ways to Consume Licorice Basil

When Licorice Basil leaves are crushed, they burst with intense basil and licorice aromas. Fragrant and floral, the spicy paste is a condiment for multiple dishes. This basil is best when mixed with other ingredients to tame it's powerful one-dimensional notes. 

See Basil Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

Greek Basil is a small-leaf dwarf variety that grows into a tight dome, about 1’ tall and wide. A great one for containers, hanging baskets, and indoor gardens. The bright green, oval leaves and soft stems have hints of clove and anise, and keep their flavor when dried.  Use this variety to flavor herb butters and vinaigrettes, and the edible flowers as a garnish or salad green.

Harvest the leaves and stems from the top part of the plant, and pinch off edible flower buds as they appear, which prevents the leaves from turning bitter, and signals the plant to branch out and grow more leaves, making a bushier plant.

The more you harvest, the more it grows!

• Basil-clove-anise flavor
• Compact plant
• Good for indoor gardens
• Good for containers
• Tons of medicinal benefits!

As a medicinal herb, Basil has been used internally to treat anxiety, colds, colic, cough, depression, diarrhea, fever, flatulence, flu, indigestion, insomnia, intestinal parasites and worms, exhaustion, gastric pain, gonorrhea, lactation problems, migraine headache, nausea, stomach cramps, sore throat, and vomiting, and externally to treat acne, insect bites and stings, loss of smell, skin problems, snake bites.

⚠️ Do not use medicinally while pregnant.

⚠️ Medicinal properties are presented as information only, and are not a recommendation or prescription for use. Consult a medical professional before using any herb medicinally.

As a companion plant, it attracts hummingbirds, pollinators, and beneficial insects, and repels asparagus beetles, cabbage moths, cabbage white butterfly, cabbage worms, carrot rust fly, flies, maggots, mice, mosquitoes, spider mites, thrips, and tomato hornworms. 

See Basil Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

• Needs full sun to grow well
• It is drought tolerant and rarely, if ever needs to be watered
• Rue has a long history of use as a domestic remedy, being especially valued for its strengthening action on the eyes
• The plant contains flavonoids that reduce capillary fragility, which might explain the plants reputation as an eye strengthener. 
• Days to Maturity | 75 days

• A very old heirloom variety dating back to the 1600's
  
  - Hamburg Rooted Parsley is used differently than other parsley plants. It's actually preferred by many European cooks and is typically the main ingredient for many stews
  
  - Hamburg Rooted Parsley is a large edible root with smooth mild parsley flavor
  
  - Very easy to grow
  
  - In Europe root parsley is usually the first choice over parsnips
  
  
  
  
• Day to Maturity | 85 days
  
  

Start a Medicinal Herb Garden
Grow natural medicinal remedies

What is a Seed Bank?

The answer is simple: a seed bank is your very own supply of open-pollinated, non-hybridized, NON-GMO seeds to be kept on hand in the case of an emergency or the unavailability of seeds.

There are many reasons to invest in a seed bank. Whether the market has changed or famine and war have changed the way we get access to seeds, these banks represent a secure way to begin planting quality foods.

All our seeds offer you the chance to replant the seeds after a successful harvest, making your investment in food one of the best values you will find. All of our seeds will produce organic produce when properly cared for.

While we remain optimistic about the future, we feel it is best to control your own food supply and live a healthier lifestyle with the best non-hybrid, non GMO seeds available today!

Caraway is an ancient aromatic herb, famous for being the spice in rye bread and German sauerkraut. A biennial in the carrot family that grows 1'-3' tall, with feathery foliage and tiny white flowers. The seeds, which have an earthy-citrusy-peppery flavor, are the most used, but the flowers, leaves, stems, and root (which looks like a small parsnip, and can be used like any other root vegetable) are also edible. While you’re waiting for the flowers, seeds, and roots to develop in the second year, spend the first year using the leaves, which have a parsley-dill flavor, in salads, soups, and sautés.

As a companion plant, it attracts pollinators and beneficial insects, and repels aphids, cabbage moths, cabbage white butterfly, cabbage worms, carrot root fly, and caterpillars.

As a medicinal herb, Caraway has been used internally to treat asthma, bad breath, bloating, colds, colic, cough, flatulence, heartburn, indigestion, insomnia, lack of appetite, nausea, sore throat, and stomach cramps, and externally to treat arthritis, bruises, burns, skin irritation, toothache, and wounds.

⚠️ Medicinal properties are presented as information only, and are not a recommendation or prescription for use. Consult a medical professional before using any herb medicinally.

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Carum carvi
• Life cycle: Herbaceous biennial
• Hardiness zones: 4-9
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 70 days-2 years; can begin harvesting when 6" tall
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 65F-75F
• Spacing between plants: 8"-12" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 2 plants per sq. ft.
• Soil types: Sandy, loamy, chalky, poor, rich, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Water needs: Average
• Cold stratify: No
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Heat tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes
• Culinary use: Yes
• Medicinal use: Yes 

Good Companion Plants: Bean, Beet, Blueberry, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrot, Cauliflower, Chard, Collards, Fava Bean, Kale, Mustard, Onion, Pea, Radish, Soybean, Strawberry, Tomato

What is Caraway?

Caraway is a biennial. This means it takes two years for the plant to mature, produce seeds, then die. During the winter you may not see any evidence of the plant even though the roots are preparing for spring. So mark your spot carefully so you don’t accidentally dig them up in the spring.

An interesting legend that goes along with Caraway is that it had the power to prevent the theft of objects that had seeds nearby and it also kept lovers from losing interest in one another.  Still, some believe Caraway has beneficial healing powers and you can use the oil, fruit and seeds as medicine.

Health Benefits of Caraway

Women can use Caraway oil to relieve menstral cramps. Feeling bloated or have a bit of indigestion? Chewing on a few Caraway seeds can help relieve your symptoms!

Ways to Consume Caraway

If you want to consume the leaves, pick them when they are young and tender. The roots are also edible when the plant is young.  Use Caraway seeds in baked goods, such as breads, and buns.  Add them to vegetable and fruit dishes, especially curries.  Use leaves and seeds alike to make hot and cold teas.

Caraway seeds have a sharp, pungent, slightly licorice taste that’s is delicious with green beans, potatoes, cabbage, onions, brussels sprouts, tomatoes, and apples. Try mixing it with cucumber and sour cream. It’s delicious with sausage and beef.

See Caraway Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

• Shungiku, Edible Chrysanthemum is a very versatile asian green
  
  
• Known as Shungiku, Edible Chrysanthemum, Garland Chrysanthemum, Chop Suey Greens and many other names
  
  
• This is a salad green that can be grown in winter and again in spring
  
  
• The flowers of Shungiku can be dried and stored to be used for tea. Often considered a substitute for Chamomile - with its soothing and stomach quieting properties

• Days to Maturity | 30 - 50 days
  
  

• Catmint has a long history of use as a household herbal remedy, being employed especially in treating disorders of the digestive system and, as it stimulates sweating, it is useful in reducing fevers
  
  - Catmint is considered to be beneficial in the treatment of fevers and colds
  
  - It is also very useful in the treatment of restlessness and nervousness, being very useful as a mild nervine for children
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 65 days
  
  

Want more? View our entire collection of high-potency Medicinal Herb seed varieties.

See Catmint Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

	1. Chives (appx. 1,000 seeds) Narrow, grass-like leaves have mild onion-like flavor. Learn more
	2. Cilantro (Coriander) - Slow Bolt (appx. 490 seeds) This slow-bolting strain is grown primarily for its broad, deep green, celery-like, pungent foliage. Used in Oriental and Mexican cuisine. Use seed to flavor meats, pickles and baked goods. Learn more
	3. Cumin (appx. 1,000 seeds) The Cumin seeds have widely been used to flavor rice, breads, beans, meats, and other dishes. Often used to flavor Curry Powder. Learn more
	4. Dill - Bouquet (appx. 450 seeds) Annual. 3 ft. plant with strongly aromatic foliage, stems, and heads. Excellent for pickling. Learn more
	5. Fennel (appx. 1,000 seeds) Produces very flavorful large bulbs and edible flower buds. Excellent for seasonings and for cooking as a vegetable. - Plant Height: 30" tall. Fennel is a very aromatic plant with a sweet licorice flavor, similar to an anise seed. Fennel has a long history of herbal use and is a commonly used household remedy, being useful in the treatment of a variety of complaints, especially those of the digestive system. Easy to grow. Many health benefits associated with this plant (see video below) Learn more
	6. Lemon Mint (appx. 230 seeds) Lemon scented leaves that can be used as a replacement for lemon in any dish or tea.  Put mint leaves in the body of a chicken before cooking - adds excellent flavor and aroma. Excellent for poultry, lamb & pork stuffing.  Makes a great marinade for fish too! Great for vinaigrette dressings. Lemon mint can be used many different ways in any culinary creations. Learn more
	7. Oregano - Italian (appx. 1,000 seeds) Hardy 2 ½ inch plant with pungent, oval leaves and purplish pink flowers. Use fresh or dried in sauces and soups. Learn more
	8. Parsley - Dark Green Italian Giant (appx. 550 seeds) Finely cut dark green parsley. Use this parsley for garnishing, and culinary decoration. Good heat tolerance. Learn more
	9. Rosemary (Appx. 100 seeds) Excellent flavor - extremely fragrant. Perfect to use fresh or dried. Can be used to flavor many culinary varieties such as meats, soups, and sauces. Can be used for treating headaches and known to improve circulation. Perfect for containers. Learn more
	10. Summer Savory (appx. 1,000 seeds) The Summer Savory plant grows tasty peppery flavored leaves. This is the herb to use if you want to flavor beans, cabbage, peas, and many other dishes. Learn more
	11. Tarragon (appx. 1,000 seeds) Tarragon, aka Dragon Wort, is a popular herb widely recognized for its strong aroma and many culinary uses. A native herb of Europe. Used to compliment to many classic continental – mostly French – dishes. Learn more
	12. Basil - Italian Large Leaf (appx. 1000 seeds) The Italian Large Leaf Basil plant will produce medium to large leaves that can measure up to 4" long! It is of heriloom variety and is extremely fragrant and used widely in the culinary industry.  If you're a lover of basil, this would be a good variety to plant in your garden.   Learn more

What is a Seed Bank?

The answer is simple: a seed bank is your very own supply of open-pollinated, non-hybridized, NON-GMO seeds to be kept on hand in the case of an emergency or the unavailability of seeds.

There are many reasons to invest in a seed bank. Whether the market has changed or famine and war have changed the way we get access to seeds, these banks represent a secure way to begin planting quality foods.

All our seeds offer you the chance to replant the seeds after a successful harvest, making your investment in food one of the best values you will find. All of our seeds will produce organic produce when properly cared for.

While we remain optimistic about the future, we feel it is best to control your own food supply and live a healthier lifestyle with the best non-hybrid, non GMO seeds available today!

Chocolate Cherry

Sweet Woodruff, also called Sweet-Scented Bedstraw, is a fast-growing, mat-forming herb and groundcover with dark green leaves and small, white, waxy, star-shaped flowers that bloom in spring. When crushed or cut, and especially dried, it has a grassy vanilla fragrance. Prefers partial to full shade, even under a Black Walnut tree. Add the leaves to fruit salads, jellies, and herbal teas, and use the flowers as an adorable and edible garnish. Reseeding and shallow runner roots enable it to spread easily.

• Grassy vanilla fragrance
• Culinary and medicinal
• Can be invasive
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

As a companion plant, it attracts all sorts of friendly pollinators to the garden.

As a medicinal herb, Sweet Woodruff has been used internally to treat congestion, insomnia, migraine headaches, nerve pain, and water retention, and externally to treat burns, wounds, and swelling.

⚠️ Contains naturally occurring coumarin and should not be ingested in large quantities if you are taking medication for circulatory disorders or are pregnant.

⚠️ Medicinal properties are presented as information only, and are not a recommendation or prescription for use. Consult a medical professional before using any herb medicinally.

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Galium odoratum
• Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness zones: 4-8
• Planting season: Spring, fall, winter
• Days to maturity: 90-120 days
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep
• Days to germinate (sprout): 10-200 days
• Germination soil temps: 60F-70F
• Spacing between plants: 8"-12" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per sq. ft.
• Soil types: Clay, sandy, loamy, rich, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 4.3-8.3
• Sun needs: Full shade, part shade
• Water needs: Average
• Cold stratify: Yes
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Heat tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: No
• Deer resistant: Yes
• Culinary use: Yes
• Medicinal use: Yes

The Maximillian Sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani) is a drought-tolerant perennial. Produces a 3"-5" blossom with veined, pointed bright yellow petals around a dark golden center. Grows 3'-10' tall on branching, hairy stems with multiple blooms per stem, and long, narrow, drooping foliage. Bold, robust, and cheerful.

• Life cycle: Perennial
• Bloom season: Summer
• Attracts: Birds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Admiration, devotion, happiness, honesty, loyalty, optimism, peace, vitality

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Helianthus maximiliani
• Hardiness zones: 4-9
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 90-100 days
• Cold stratify: Yes
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/2" deep
• Spacing between plants: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-25 days
• Germination soil temps: 65F-70F
• Soil types: Clay, sandy, loamy, rocky, dry, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.5-7.8
• Water needs: Low - do not overwater
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes

Green Shiso (Perilla frutescens), also called Perilla Leaf and Japanese Basil, is an herb in the mint family with large, bright green, wrinkled, serrated leaves. Not as spicy as Red Shiso. Used extensively in Japanese cuisine, it has a fresh minty-basil flavor with notes of clove and cumin, and a bitter, astringent finish. Pairs well with fish, rice, noodles, and vegetables, especially cucumbers. Also a medicinal herb with antioxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Its rhizome root can become invasive, so best grown in a container.

• Mint-basil-clove-cumin flavor
• Full sun
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Days to maturity: 80-85 days

Good companion plants: Arugula, Basil, Bok Choy, Parsley, Tomato

Red Shiso (Perilla frutescens), also called Perilla Leaf and Japanese Basil, is an herb in the mint family with large, deep purple, wrinkled, serrated leaves. Much stronger and spicier than Green Shiso, the crunchy leaves are used mainly in salads, for pickling, and as a natural food coloring. Used extensively in Japanese cuisine, it has a fresh minty-basil flavor with notes of clove and cumin, and a bitter, astringent finish. Pairs well with fish, rice, noodles, and vegetables, especially cucumbers. Also a medicinal herb with antioxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Its rhizome root can become invasive, so best grown in a container.

• Mint-basil-clove-cumin flavor
• Full sun
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Days to maturity: 80-85 days

Good companion plants: Arugula, Basil, Bok Choy, Parsley, Tomato

Amaranthus tricolor, commonly known as Joseph's Coat, is a vibrant and visually striking flowering plant that is often utilized in ornamental gardening. This species is characterized by its broad, colorful leaves that can display a range of hues including red, yellow, and green. The plant typically reaches a height of 2 to 4 feet and can spread up to 3 feet wide, making it a prominent feature in garden landscapes.

One of the notable aspects of Amaranthus tricolor is its adaptability to various soil types. It thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate poor soil conditions, which makes it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to enhance their landscapes with minimal maintenance. The plant prefers full sun exposure, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to achieve optimal growth and color vibrancy.

In terms of cultivation, Amaranthus tricolor is relatively easy to grow from seeds. The seeds should be sown directly into the garden after the last frost date, as the plant is sensitive to cold temperatures. Germination typically occurs within 7 to 14 days under suitable conditions. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant, requiring watering only during prolonged dry spells.

From a nutritional perspective, Amaranthus tricolor is not only ornamental but also edible. The young leaves can be harvested and consumed in salads or cooked as a green vegetable, providing a source of vitamins A and C, as well as essential minerals. This dual-purpose nature enhances its appeal for gardeners interested in both aesthetics and food production.

Furthermore, Amaranthus tricolor attracts beneficial insects, such as pollinators, which can enhance the overall health of the garden ecosystem. The flowers, which are small and clustered, bloom throughout the summer and into the fall, providing a continuous source of color and attracting various species of bees and butterflies.

In conclusion, Amaranthus tricolor is a versatile and attractive addition to any garden. Its vibrant foliage, ease of cultivation, and nutritional benefits make it a valuable choice for both ornamental and edible gardening. Gardeners should consider incorporating this plant into their landscapes to enjoy its beauty and contributions to biodiversity.

Health Benefits of Amaranth

Do you have grey hair? Amaranth helps to prevent premature graying, mainly due to the minerals it contains. It helps to lower bad cholesterol and also can reduce inflammation and ease pain.   Especially important for people suffering from diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.  Great for tackling high blood pressure and may even help prevent cancer.  Don't forget it is a wonderful source of protein.  

Ways to Consume Amaranth

Amaranth is a lot like quinoa as far as being a "protein packed" seed.  You can roast, pop, or boil these seeds.  Use as a breakfast cereal, or combine it with other grains.  Amaranth is a wonderful soup thickener because of it's gelatinous quality when cooked.  Cook the leaves of the Amaranth plant, similar to how you would cook/use spinach leaves. 

See Amaranth Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

The Lavender Vera plant, scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia, is a perennial herb renowned for its aromatic qualities and vibrant purple flowers. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated for centuries due to its numerous benefits and applications in gardening, aromatherapy, and culinary arts.

One of the primary advantages of incorporating Lavender Vera into a garden is its ability to attract pollinators. Studies indicate that lavender can attract up to 30% more bees and butterflies compared to other flowering plants. This is particularly beneficial for gardeners aiming to enhance biodiversity and support local ecosystems.

Lavender Vera is also known for its drought-resistant properties. Once established, this plant requires minimal water, making it an excellent choice for sustainable gardening practices. Research shows that lavender can thrive in well-drained soils with low moisture levels, which can reduce the overall water consumption in a garden by approximately 20%.

In addition to its ecological benefits, Lavender Vera has a variety of uses in the home. The essential oils extracted from its flowers are widely used in aromatherapy for their calming effects. According to a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, inhaling lavender oil can reduce anxiety levels by up to 30% in individuals experiencing stress.

From a culinary perspective, Lavender Vera can be utilized in various recipes, including desserts, teas, and savory dishes. Its unique flavor profile adds a distinct floral note that can enhance the overall taste of a dish. However, it is essential to use culinary-grade lavender to ensure safety and palatability.

When cultivating Lavender Vera, it is crucial to consider its growing conditions. This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. Proper spacing is also vital, as mature plants can reach heights of 2 to 3 feet and spread up to 4 feet wide. Adequate air circulation around the plants can help prevent fungal diseases, which are common in humid environments.

In conclusion, the Lavender Vera plant is a valuable addition to any garden. Its ability to attract pollinators, drought-resistant nature, and versatile applications make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. By understanding the specific needs and benefits of Lavender Vera, gardeners can create a thriving and sustainable environment that enhances both aesthetics and functionality.

Includes a mix of all sorts of different sunflowers! Be surprised as you watch they grow in your garden. 

The Evening Sun Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is a striking annual plant that can enhance any garden with its vibrant colors and unique characteristics. This variety is particularly noted for its multi-colored blooms, which can range from deep red to golden yellow, creating a stunning visual display. The plant typically grows to a height of 5 to 7 feet, making it a prominent feature in garden landscapes.

One of the key benefits of the Evening Sun Sunflower is its ability to attract pollinators. Studies have shown that sunflowers are highly effective at drawing in bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many garden plants. In fact, a single sunflower can attract up to 20 different species of pollinators, thereby enhancing the biodiversity of the garden ecosystem.

In terms of cultivation, the Evening Sun Sunflower thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is recommended to plant seeds after the last frost date, as sunflowers are sensitive to cold temperatures. The seeds should be spaced approximately 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for adequate growth and airflow. Once established, these sunflowers require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Furthermore, the Evening Sun Sunflower is known for its resilience. It can tolerate drought conditions once established, which is particularly beneficial in regions with variable rainfall. Research indicates that sunflowers can survive with as little as 1 inch of water per week, making them a sustainable choice for water-conscious gardeners.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Evening Sun Sunflowers also have practical uses. The seeds produced by these plants are edible and can be harvested for consumption. They are rich in nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium, contributing to a healthy diet. Moreover, sunflower oil, extracted from the seeds, is widely used in cooking and food production.

Overall, the Evening Sun Sunflower is an excellent addition to any garden. Its vibrant blooms, ability to attract pollinators, and minimal maintenance requirements make it a favored choice among gardeners. By incorporating this plant into your garden, you not only enhance its beauty but also contribute to a healthier ecosystem.

Rudbeckia amplexicaulis, commonly known as the clasping coneflower, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This species is native to the eastern and central regions of North America and is recognized for its distinctive yellow flowers and unique foliage. Understanding the characteristics and cultivation requirements of Rudbeckia amplexicaulis can enhance its integration into a garden setting.

One of the notable features of Rudbeckia amplexicaulis is its growth habit. This plant typically reaches a height of 2 to 3 feet and produces flowers that are approximately 2 to 3 inches in diameter. The flowers are characterized by their bright yellow petals that surround a prominent, dark brown central cone. The foliage is lanceolate and clasping, which gives the plant its common name. The leaves can grow up to 6 inches long and are arranged alternately along the stem.

In terms of cultivation, Rudbeckia amplexicaulis thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is important to note that this species is drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens. The ideal soil pH for optimal growth ranges from 6.0 to 7.0. Regular watering during the initial establishment phase is recommended, but overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.

Rudbeckia amplexicaulis is also known for its resilience against pests and diseases. This hardiness contributes to its popularity among gardeners seeking sustainable and low-maintenance options. However, it is advisable to monitor for common pests such as aphids and spider mites, which can occasionally affect the plant. Implementing integrated pest management strategies can help mitigate these issues.

In terms of propagation, Rudbeckia amplexicaulis can be easily grown from seeds or divisions. Seeds should be sown in the spring or fall, and germination typically occurs within 14 to 30 days under optimal conditions. For division, it is recommended to separate the plants every 3 to 4 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Rudbeckia amplexicaulis serves as an important ecological resource. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which contribute to the overall health of the garden ecosystem. Furthermore, the plant's seeds provide food for birds during the winter months, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.

In conclusion, Rudbeckia amplexicaulis is a versatile and resilient perennial that can add significant value to any garden. Its striking flowers, low maintenance requirements, and ecological benefits make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. By understanding its growth habits and cultivation needs, gardeners can successfully incorporate this species into their landscapes, promoting both beauty and sustainability.