botanical products and services that nurture your family
I first met Sharon Lovejoy in the pages of her lovely book Sunflower Houses when I stumbled upon it in the library years ago. I checked it out and was immediately captivated by her whimsical artwork and creative children’s garden projects just begging to be tried.
Consequently, the first project I selected was the namesake of her book, the sunflower house. My two children and I had a fun summer planting and playing in our own sunflower house.
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Recently, the Polar Vortex had most of the U.S. in its icy grip, including the Midwest where I live. This winter we’ve been socked in with cold temps and snowy days. So it’s with great joy that I can make this announcement:
It’s time to think about starting seeds indoors for your spring garden!
I know I would! There’s nothing better than fresh herbs. That’s why I’ve created a workshop to help us enjoy indoor herbs for wintertime use. [Read more…]
I didn’t think planting season would ever arrive this year.All winter long I’ve been anticipating growing an aromatherapy garden, but cold temperatures through April and dreary weather in the Midwest made me put my plans on hold. In literally one week in May, we went from late winter temperatures to early summer, and I eagerly jumped wholeheartedly into planting my scented garden.
But, I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s back up a bit so I can briefly explain how I went about the concept of planting an aromatherapy garden, in case you want to also. [Read more…]
I don’t know about you, but when I’m smack in the middle of blah winter months, I miss working in my herb garden and being surrounded by the aromas and visions of blooming herbs, flowers, and veggies. Winter days can be a bit dreary after the excitement and busyness of the holidays. Especially this year. We’ve had days and days of sub-zero temperatures and snow. It’s a real winter. [Read more…]
Have you looked out the window at your garden lately? The beginning of August is prime garden season in Indiana where I am. Most of the plants that l planted back in April and May are growing like mad. It’s time to start reaping the benefits of these beautiful blooms. Where to start? [Read more…]
Echinacea is your herb. It’s well-known for being an immune-enhancing plant. It has a reputation for being effective against colds, sore throats, and flus, especially if taken at the beginning of the infection. Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar points out in her book Medicinal Herbs, A Beginner’s Guide that it is also rich in polysaccharides, which aids cells in resisting viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Here’s more in-depth information on the health benefits of echinacea from chiropractor Dr. Axe. [Read more…]