Tea Thyme: How to Grow Herbs for Tea

Herb gardening is one of the pleasures of life. History in full bloom in the garden patch. Herbs have long been treasured for their unique additions to the chef's repertoire. Herbalists, who are alchemists at heart, will offer another gift from the gardener's lair. Tea time has returned! Why not plan your garden around it?

Herbs are forgiving creatures. They will thrive in pour or troubled soils, in sun or shade. Known for adaptability, herbs often thrive on neglect. Of course, the gardener may prefer an manicure thematic creation such as a knot, with planned geometrics. Herbs will appreciate this environment as well. Herbs may be started from seed, cuttings or plants.

A trip down the grocers aisle will provide inspiration. Try several different types of prepared tea blends to see what appeals. Some teas are calming, others invigorating. Tastes vary from bitter to sweet. Combinations are limitless!

Popular herbs for tea include:

Chamomile, Chamomile nobile. was once considered an ancient remedy for nausea and over excitability. With an appley sweet taste, it is still used as a calmative. Herbal tea preparations for sleep will often include the delicate flowers of this plant. Chamomile will announce its presence when walked upon, releasing an easily recognizable scent.

To prepare tea: Harvest approximately 3 teaspoons of fresh blossoms. Pour hot water over blossoms, about 4 cups. Steep for 5 minutes. Sweeten with honey.

Catnip, Nepeta cataria, a member of the mint family. Well known as a mild intoxicant for our feline friends, this herb provides some of the attributes of Chamomile. Frequent uses are a calmative for children, an ingredient in night time tea blends, or treatment for an upset stomach. Herbal tea preparations are made from the leaves of the plant. Since it is of the mint variety, consideration should be giving for space and maintenance when planting. The herb gardener should also expect visits from the neighboring cat population!
To prepare tea: Harvest approximately 3 teaspoons of fresh leaves. Steep.

Calendula, Calundula officianlis, is nicknamed pot marigold. The delicate petals are known for their cheerful yellow color, which makes a nice addition to a blended tea. Calendula is often used to treat skin irritations and is frequently found in herbal soaps. For tea, use 3 teaspoons of fresh leaves, steep. Slightly bitter flavor.

Lavendar, Lavenuls spcis, L. Angustifolia, perhaps the most recognized herb. Lavendar is popular in pottpouri's, sachets, perfumes and more. Lavender contributes a floral presence to tea, creating a scented brew. Frequently used as a treatment for mildly depressed moods and headaches. The color and scent are definitely spirit lifters! Flowers grow on long, impressive stems. The flowers are the part brewed for tea.

Mint, Mentha varieties include: Peppermint, spearmint, chocolate mint, applemint, and pineapple mint are most commonly used for tea. The scent of mint has long been associated with cleanliness. We find mint in toothpastes, mouthwashes, soaps and other body care products. Mint is known to be soothing to the stomach and calm the nerves. The medicinal part of the plant is the leaves and they should be harvested before the plant flowers. Mint will spread rapidly, sending off new roots anywhere the stem touches the ground, so a well contained spot in the garden is recommended. In fact, a barrel planter is a perfect home for mint as it will be restricted to that environment. Mint leaves has be dipped in sugar for a special topping to cakes, of course served with iced tea for a refreshing note of flavor.

Try other favorites such as Lemon Verbena, Sage and Lemon Thyme. Lavendar also makes a refreshing brew. Experiment to find your favorites!