Cilantro is used extensively in cooking
Herbs are plants that are used whole or in part for flavor, fragrance or health. Herbs are used extensively in cooking and plant extracts are active ingredients in over 25 percent of modern drugs. Herbs grow best in very well-drained soils, moderate temperatures and full sun. A number of herbs can be grown successfully during the summer in North Carolina. However the only way to harvest herbs during the extreme winters in the state is to grow them indoors. Does this Spark an idea?
Catnip
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb with medicinal properties. Tea made with dried catnip leaves is used as a sedative and for relieving restlessness in children. The plant has 2-inch-long, arrow-shaped leaves with serrated margins and grows up to 3 feet or more in height. The clusters of white or lavender flowers attract bees and bloom throughout the summer. Catnip is a member of the mint family and grows best in sun or partial shade. The plants self-sow freely and require minimal water except during extended dry periods or drought. Recommended planting time is during spring or summer in warm, well-drained soil. Prune to the ground in the fall.
Cilantro
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) is an herb which is enjoying widespread popularity with the present surge of interest in Asian and Mexican cuisine. In North Carolina the herb grows best when it is seeded in early spring and again in late summer to get a fall and winter harvest. The herb is hardy enough to withstand light frosts. Cilantro resembles plain leaved parsley but has a stronger favor like the coriander seeds. Cilantro is also known as Chinese parsley and grows to a mature height of 2 to 3 feet. It is among the maintenance-free herbs. It grows best in loose garden soil and needs watering every couple of days for the first week or so. During the summer the plants prefer a weekly watering. Fertilizing with a 20-20-20 water-soluble fertilizer helps to produce vigorous growth.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a lemon-scented member of the mint family. It is however not as invasive as mint. Lemon balm is a popular perennial herb and grows easily in North and South Carolina. It is not very tolerant of the coastal heat and tends to be short-lived in these areas. The plant produces 2-inch-long, oval, wrinkled leaves with scalloped margins and short spikes of white flowers. As the plants grow they emanate a strong lemon scent. Lemon balm is used in aromatherapy to alleviate depression. The plants grow easily from seeds sown in early fall or spring. The herb does not do well in poor, dry soil and prefers to be planted in fertile, moist soil. When grown in shade the growth is more vigorous.
Tags: grows best, Lemon balm, North Carolina, extensively cooking, herb grows
