The Crafty Cultivator

Over the years I have discovered that I really like growing herbs. They basically take care of themselves, and no matter how busy or overwhelming life gets, there is always some kind of harvest from my neglected herbs. So I recommend even the most beginner gardener grow some herbs. Added bonus, is that even if you leave them to just grow, the bees and other pollinators love their flowers.

I’ve already talked about Savory this year. I’m growing Winter, Summer and ‘Midget’ Summer Savory this year.  So I wanted to mention a few others and why I am growing them.

First off, lets talk Oregano. I’m growing 2 types, or at least I thought I was. I had a pack of “Oregano” seeds from Burpee that I probably got at the grocery store many moons ago, and I just assumed it was Italian Oregano because on the pack it says “Use in Italian Dishes” But then I googled the latin name that is on the pack and apparently it is a Greek Oregano. This is where I get slightly annoyed at the generic names on packs of seeds. I am keeping my eye out for some Mexican Oregano to try next year.

The other oregano I am growing is True Greek Oregano from Renee’s Garden Seeds. I had bought two oregano plants last year, one Greek, one Italian, and there was a pretty big difference in their flavours. I bought the seeds so I could grow it again this year myself.

Why Oregano? It is probably the most used dry herb that we use, so it was a no-brainer to start growing my own instead of buying it all the time. It has also survived winter here a few times, which makes it even more exciting to me. I like things that can take care of themselves.

Next Up: Thyme. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that the thyme I have in my garden is going to survive the winter. But I did pick up some German Winter Thyme from Wildrose Heritage Seeds and I am looking forward to growing it and seeing the difference.

Why Thyme? Another well-used herb in our kitchen. I always add it to soups and stews. Its a good idea to think about what you already use regularly when you are thinking of new things to try. Thyme isn’t new to me, but this German Thyme is.

And Lastly, lets talk about the Sweet Marjoram. While its not on my most favourite list (That list is topped by Sage), It is a great addition to Italian seasoning mixes. This seed packet was another old one from Burpee. I just wanted to use up the last of this packet, and will probably pick up some new seed for next year from a seed company that I like a little more.

Why Marjoram? Apart from adding it to my homemade Italian seasoning, I don’t use Sweet Marjoram on its own. So I think I will see how we can incorporate it more into our food. Any suggestions? I’ve read it has a more mild oregano flavour. I’m not new to growing it, but I do want to get better at using it in the kitchen.

I’m not sure which herbs I’ll write about next. I will also be sowing Peppers very soon, and then mid March I’ll be starting my tomatoes.