Colonial Triangle of VA Unit /Herb Society of America

06/22/2026

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Welcome, Summer 2026

06/22/2026

😂😂

06/21/2026

There's a herb that once grew in nearly every kitchen garden, prized for centuries, and these days almost nobody plants it anymore. I have no idea how it fell so far out of fashion. It's a hardy perennial, so you put it in once and it comes back every single year on its own. It shrugs off pests, handles shade better than almost any other herb, and a single plant gives you more than you could ever use. Every part of it is edible, leaf to root, and the flavor is unlike anything else in the garden. Once you grow it, you'll wonder how it ever disappeared. I covered what it is, how to grow it, and a dozen ways to use it in the comments.

06/21/2026

Plant math is the only math where the answer is always “buy more.” 🌿😂

06/19/2026

Lemon basil (Ocimum × citriodorum) is a flavorful hybrid herb prized for its bright citrusy aroma and tender leaves. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions and is best grown as an annual in most of the US. It needs full sun — at least 6 to 8 hours per day — and prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Consistent moisture is key: water regularly but avoid waterlogged soil, as it's prone to root rot. Pinch back flower buds regularly to keep the plant bushy and producing leaves throughout the season.

Growing conditions vary quite a bit by hardiness zone. In zones 3–5 (the northern US and mountain regions), lemon basil is strictly a warm-season annual — start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost, then transplant outside only after nighttime temperatures stay reliably above 50°F. In zones 6–8 (the mid-Atlantic through the upper South and Pacific Northwest), direct sowing outdoors after the last frost date works well, and plants will thrive through a long summer; you can squeeze in a second planting in late summer for a fall harvest before temps drop. In zones 9–11 (the Gulf Coast, Florida, Southwest, and Hawaii), lemon basil can be grown for much of the year, though a brief cool-season rest is common — plant in early spring and again in early fall, avoiding the peak heat of midsummer, which can stress plants and trigger early bolting. In all zones, bring containerized plants indoors before the first frost if you want to extend the harvest.

To learn more, including ways to use it in your kitchen, visit: https://loom.ly/0k4mN48

06/18/2026

Thyme: A Tiny Herb with a Big Reputation

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) has been valued for centuries in traditional herbal practices and kitchens around the world. This fragrant herb is packed with beneficial plant compounds and is often used to support overall wellness.

Potential Benefits of Thyme:

🌿 Rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress

🌿 Traditionally used to support respiratory health, especially during seasonal challenges

🌿 Contains natural compounds that may help support a healthy immune system

🌿 Often used in folk remedies to soothe the throat and promote comfort

🌿 May help support healthy digestion and reduce occasional digestive discomfort

🌿 Provides vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and manganese

🌿 Commonly used in teas, broths, infused oils, and culinary dishes

Good to Know:
Fresh and dried thyme both offer benefits, though fresh thyme typically provides a more vibrant flavor and aroma. Thyme tea remains one of the most popular traditional ways to enjoy this herb.

Pro Tip:
Thyme pairs beautifully with rosemary, sage, oregano, garlic, and lemon in both cooking and herbal preparations.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always do your research before introducing into your diet, especially if you have any underlying or pre-existing conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medications.

06/18/2026

Cooling herbs can help reduce body heat and promote a sense of coolness in the body
Use them by infusing teas, soaking in them, and eating

06/10/2026