First thing

Friday, January 5, 2018

Self Watering Herb Garden


Herbs are incredibly useful not only for culinary purposes but also for medicinal uses. Many herbs can be juiced and brewed to treat the symptoms of many health conditions. Though there is the issue of being able to obtain enough of the herbs to make use of them for these purposes. Here is a great way to access these wonderful herbs by growing them at home easily and at a minimal expense.


What you'll need is some potting soil, preferred herb seed, slotted mesh hydroponic pot, large glass mason jar, unbleached fabric cloth strip or thick string, unbleached paper towel or cheese cloth and clean filtered water or mineral water.

Start by building a growing pot in the slotted mesh pot. Take the cloth strip or string and slip it through the bottom of the slotted mesh pot allowing it to hang freely from the bottom of the pot. Next place the paper towel or cheesecloth in the slotted pot and line the entire inside. Add soil within and fill to the top. Allow preferred herb seed to soak in water 6-8 hours or overnight. Once the seed has soaked place in soil to grow.

Fill glass jar halfway with water. Take soil filled slotted pot and place inside of jar. Use the metal rim that typically comes with mason jars to secure the slotted pot in place. Now, the water level should not be touching the slotted pot and nearly half of the length of the cloth strip or string should be submerged in water.
Place the jar near a sunny place like a window sill and the herbs should be able to grow to full size. Consider wrapping the jar in a cozy or fitted covering to prevent the formation of algae due to light exposure. Now we have a self watering potted herb. As the herbs grow the roots will extend themselves into the water. Try to change the water once a week.


Here is a sampling of herbs that grow well with this method.


Rosemary – Popular in savory dishes Rosemary also possesses anti-inflammatory properties which combat conditions like sore muscles and arthritis.

Sage – Frequently burned to purify the atmosphere. Sage can soothe the digestive tract and prevents gastric spasms.

Peppermint – Known for its signature scent peppermint is also a great source of minerals and vitamins such as magnesium, calcium, folate, potassium, copper, vitamin A and vitamin C that are essential for maintaining good health.

Tarragon – A popular seasoning, the French variety is best for culinary purposes while the Russian is better to be used for salads. Tarragon contains antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals in the body. Tarragon helps to support cardiovascular health.

Basil – Essential to many Italian dishes due to its striking flavor and aroma. Another great source of antioxidants as well as possessing antibacterial and antiseptic properties.

Spearmint – A close relative of peppermint it is easily grown in the same way. Spearmint has the ability to improve digestion, boost respiratory health, optimize hormonal levels, relieve stress, increase circulation, and maximize heart health.

Thyme – Another popular culinary herb, thyme also contains  high levels of vitamin C making it a natural immune system booster.

Oregano – Common in Mediterranean cuisine this herb also boosts the immune system improves digestion detoxifies the body and strengthens the heart.

Lemon Balm – Another member of the mint family lemon balm stimulates the detoxification of the liver and promotes restful sleep. The herb is also known to improve cognitive function.

Stevia – A popular sweetener alternative to sugar the health benefits of stevia include its ability to aid in weight loss, lower blood pressure, reduce blood sugar, and protect oral health.


http://bit.ly/herbaljar01

No comments:

Post a Comment