Artichokes are one of my favorite foods and they are fun to grow. From almost nothing, they become huge in a few months. Like other members of the thistle family, they are wonderful for the liver and digestion. Sow in spring in full sun.
Asparagus can be grown in temperate climates and makes a wonderful hedge as well as feast for the palate. It is medicinal in the sense that it clears the urinary tract of toxins. It is a diuretic and laxative. The plant lives for around 20 years and needs to be in an undisturbed location such as along the perimeter of the yard.
This is an heirloom organic bean similar to the scarlet runner. It is grown as a perennial in the south and annual in other climates. It is fun for children.
90 days to maturity.
These carrots can be planted in spring or July-August. They take 65-75 days to reach 6-8" in length. The carrots are a high amino acid type and, of course, are rich in vitamin A and antioxidants.
Chervil is native to Europe and this variety has an anise-like taste. It is often planted to repel slugs! It attracts desirable insects and pollinators so is very garden friendly. The plants are small and as delicate as the flavor. It has some medicinal properties. It is carminative and diuretic as well as blood purifying. If the leaves are cut, they will keep coming back. The seeds should be planted directly into the ground rather than in pots for future transplanting. Chervil is one of the herbs used Herbes de Provence.
Epazote resembles wormwood and the seeds are a potent vermifuge and anti-malarial herb. It can be used to treat hookworm in both people and animals. The leaf is used in cooking, especially of beans, to reduce flatulence. Dried leaves can be used to make a tea. The fresh leaves are a bit resinous but can be added to salads. The plant grows well in waste soil but needs to be kept moist until germination. It grows in zones 4-12 and is perennial in warmer climates. If using in cooking, only a few leaves are required. When used medicinally, do not take in high amounts over a prolonged period of time.
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Onions, Valencia, 100 organic seeds
Valencia onions have a large bulb with a yellow skin and firm edible bulb. They like full sun and water but grow well despite the length of the day and are thus suitable for most latitudes.
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Chrysanthemum coronarium
Shungiku, 100 seedsChrysanthemum coronarium
This is an edible chrysanthemum. I used to dine on them in Japan. The leaves are a bit crunchy and the flowers are exotic. Both are alkalizing to the blood. The bloom earlier than lettuce so can be harvested before other vegetables are in season.