Warm-Up the Kettle, Make Your Own Tea Garden

With its appealing aroma and burst of flavor, it’s no wonder why people go crazy for a cup of tea, and we don’t blame them. Served hot or cold, herbal teas are a delicious way to experience the refreshing flavor of herbs that can be grown in your very own garden. Tea is traditionally known for its calming effects and many of us turn to herbal teas to help unwind after a long day. Furthermore, herbal tea has been used for centuries as an at-home remedy for common ailments, such as headaches, stress, bloating, and nausea.

Herbs not only make wonderful teas, they also provide texture, shape, and color in the garden. Tea herbs can be incorporated into mixed borders and beds or planted together in a themed bed of their own. Don’t have a lot of space- no worries! If your growing space is limited, herbs can easily be grown in pots on the patio or deck. A sunny or partial sunny location are typically best for most herbs, however, be sure to follow the herb seed pack or herb label for planting instructions for growing success. Choose herbs that will grow best in accordance with your climate and available space. Above all, never spray herbs that will be used for culinary purposes with any type of pesticide.

Growing herbs in the garden is one of the easiest things to do. Whether you’re new to growing herbs or a seasoned expert, here are few herb growing and harvesting tips to help you to enjoy a delicious cup of tea:

• Harvest herbs regularly to encourage them to generate more growth and to keep them from going to flower, since most fresh herbs are at their peak just before they bloom.
• Harvest early in the day, after the dew has dried, but while the herbs are still lush and temperatures are typically cooler.
• Use herbs fresh or air-dried and be careful not to tear or crush the herbs until you are ready to use them. You don’t want to waste any of the essential oils.
• Dried herbs are best stored in airtight plastic bins or glass herb-storage containers and kept away from direct sunlight.
• A few of our favorite herbal teas flavors include lemon balm, spearmint, lemon verbena, sage and chocolate mint.