***MUSTARD***
(Brassica Spp.)
• Full Sun, Pot Suitable, and Essential Oil.
• Ideal Soil: Fertile and well-drained.
• Parts Used: Leaves, flower, oil, and seeds.
• Medicinal: In baths for muscle pain, respiratory tract infections, and rheumatism.
Most Mustards are annuals or biennials. Some are "winter annuals" that remain green even when buried in snow. Mustard is a great pest deterrent.
Mustard seeds have a sharp, bitter taste. White seeds are used for pickling; black and brown in curries.
Mustard flowers are used as a garnish for salads; young leaves can be cooked as a vegetable.
For the mildest flavor, pick young mustard leaves in the morning.
GROWING GUIDELINES:
Sow seed shallowly outdoors from early spring to fall. Prepare beds with compost or well-rooted manure.
• Growth Habit: Annual/biennial; height 4-6 feet [1.2-1.8 m].
• Flowers: Summer; four-petaled, yellow blossoms.
HARVESTING AND STORING:
Cut whole plant 10 days after sowing, or pick single leaves from older plants. Harvest flowers on opening. Collect ripe seeds; dry or infuse in vinegar.
***CALENDULA***
(Calendula Officinalis)
• Full Sun, Pot Suitable, Used as Teas, Culinary Used, and Essential Oil.
• Ideal Soil: Well-drained.
• Parts Used: Flower petals.
• Medicinal: Gastrointestinal infection, eczema, and athlete's foot.
• Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant woman.
The Calendula is a cheery, dependable bloomer in the garden. It is one of the most versatile herbs, with cosmetic, culinary, and medicinal uses.
Calendula oil is made from the brightest orange petals and has antiseptic properties.
Dried petals are used as a saffron substitute in rice and soups, or infused to color butter and cakes.
Infuse Calendula petals for tea; add whole flowers to salads or preserve in vinegar.
GROWING GUIDELINES:
Sow seed outdoors in fall or spring. Pinch away old blooms for continuous flowering.
• Growth Habit: Annual: height 1-2 feet [30-60 cm].
• Flowers: Summer; golden-yellow to orange blossoms.
HARVESTING AND STORING:
Dry petals in shade on paper; store in moisture-proof containers. Preserve whole flowers in vinegar.
