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Gardening:
Plant
a "Tea Garden:
"Growing Your
Own Herbs for Tea
by Cyndi Roberts
If you love herbal
teas, as I do, you know they are just a little bit pricey. However,
growing your own herbs is easy and so much fun!
Here are just a
few of the herbs you might want to consider for a tea garden:
Chamomile:
Remember the favorite tea of Peter Rabbit? Only the flowers of this
fragrant herb are used when making tea. Chamomile tea can be enjoyed
by itself or you might enjoy adding mint or lemon verbena.
Lemon Balm: This
herb is lemony with a touch of mint and makes a soothing cup of tea.
It's easy to grow (almost too easy) so remember to keep it clipped back.
Lemon Verbena: An
excellent herb to grow in a sunny spot, it makes a delicious tea. You
might try combining it with orange mint or spearmint.
Mints: There are
many mints available. Generally, they are aromatic plants and they
are aggressive. It may be a good idea to plant mint in a pot and then
put the pot in the ground so it doesn't take over your herb garden.
Spearmint,
peppermint, orange mint all make wonderful teas, alone or along with
chamomile or any of the lemon herbs.
Herb teas can be
made with fresh or dried herbs and can be enjoyed either hot or cold.
For one cup of hot
tea, use one teaspoon of dry herbs or up to 3 teaspoons of fresh
herbs. Bruising the leaves of fresh herbs will help release the
flavor. Pour boiling water over the herbs in a glass or china pot.
Metal pots can sometimes leave a metallic taste. Let steep for 5 or
so minutes.
Strain and enjoy
with a little honey to sweeten.
Sun tea can be
made simply by filling a jar with water, throw in a handful of
crushed fresh herbs, and set in the sun for 3 or 4 hours. Stir in a
little honey to sweeten, pour over ice and enjoy.
Trying different
combinations of herbs is fun. Remember you can also add spices you
have on hand, such as cinnamon, cloves, etc.
There are many
benefits to growing and making your own herbal teas. Gardening itself
is very relaxing and rewarding. With herbs from your garden you can
soothe away your troubles with a cup of chamomile tea or make
yourself a refreshing cup of peppermint tea after a hard day at work.
About The Author
Cyndi Roberts is the creator of "1 Frugal
Friend 2 Another", at website that shows you ways to save money
everyday. Receive a free e-course on saving money at the supermarket!
To learn more, visit
http://www.cynroberts.com
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