Seed Guide 2007 pgs 01/41 - McKenzie Seeds

— TARRAGON —
Perennial
botanical: Artemisia dracunculus
Tarragon 101351
The tarragon leaf is long and blade
shaped. Leaves alternate upward on a
central stem. Blossoms form mid-season
atop the stem. These plants like an open
sunny location with rich, sandy, ph
neutral (6.9) soil that is well-drained.
Prefers full sun but will produce in partial
shade. Has a very mild flavor. The perfect
herb to be used in herb vinegar, as well
as sauces, and salads. For homemade
tarragon vinegar, put fresh tarragon
leaves into white vinegar and place it in a
dark place for 3-4 weeks before use.
Plant direct or start indoors.
M C K E N Z I E H E R B S
— THYME —
Perennial
botanical: Thymus vulgaris
Thyme 101342
Heat & Sun Lover
Thyme may be the most useful and
perfect herb. It grows as a bushy plant
with tiny grey-green leaves on woody
stems. Plant indoors in late winter and
transplant to a location receiving full sun.
Thyme prefers warm, dry conditions. A
porous soil without minimal nutrients is
best; too rich a diet will encourage
unseemly vigor which increases
susceptibility to disease and winterkill. To
ensure wintering, avoid harvesting
foliage in the autumn. Hardy Zone 2. Soil:
pH - 5.5 - 7.0. Thyme benefits egg plants,
potatoes and tomatoes when planted
adjacent. It also repels cabbage root fly. It
makes a very attractive edging plant.
Admirable for herb gardens, rock gardens
and dry walls. Helps in the digestion of
fatty foods. Used to relieve spasms and
coughing. Use as a seasoning in meat
sauces, in soups, vegetables dishes, and
with fish. Native to Southern Europe. Its
scientific name, "Thymus" is Greek for
courage. Plant direct or start indoors. Cut
leafy tops and flower clusters when
plants are blooming; hang to dry.
GARDENING TIP
One teaspoon of thyme and one
teaspoon of sage mixed well with one
cup water can be sprayed on cabbage,
followed by a dusting of flour, works
wonderfully to keep insects away.
Arline Pratchler, Govan SK
W W W . M C K E N Z I E S E E D S . C O M
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