eac@drutx.UUCP (CveticEA) (05/27/85)
Since fresh mint (of any variety) is a wonderful garnish, tea base, etc. Some tips on growing: I have found that if you buy a very large clay flower pot, plant the mint in it, and sink the pot to ground level, the mint plant is very easy to control. You still have to watch for stems that are touching the ground outside the pot, since they can and will take root. Another essential summer herb--lemon balm. Try it in iced tea instead of a lemon wedge. Most herbs are very easy to grow. I have found cooking to be great fun if I can add a little of this or that straight out of the garden. And don't forget, before the winter freezes come, harvest and freeze the herbs and they are almost as good as fresh, except they don't make attractive garnishes any more. And even more good news--a lot of common herbs are perennial (even in Colorado) so you don't have to replant everything in your garden year after year. Some of the perennials I have had a lot of success with are: sage, thyme, mints, lemon balm, chives, and winter savory. You folks along the California coast really have it lucky since oregano, basil, marjoram, and rosemary will survive as well. Believe me, once you take up growing your own herbs, the store bought ones just won't have the same appeal. Betsy Cvetic ihnp4!drutx!eac