Herbal Home Remedies

The pungently aromatic leaves of Rosmarinus officinalis contain essential oils that can be used as a general tonic or mental stimulant. As with all herbal remedies, though, be cautious as although harmless and beneficial to most, it can, in excess, cause pregnant women to abort. Herbal teas are an important part of the magic of "growing your own" and common sage (Salvia) and many mints make effective but tasty antiseptic teas, gargles and mouthwashes. Even innocuous annuals, such as nasturtium (Tropaeolum), produce an infusion that helps relieve blocked noses and heavy colds.

Materials Needed:

• 2 x Salvia officinalis "Purpurascens"
• 1 x Mentha suaveolens "Variegata"
• 2 x Rosmarinus officinalis

• 1 x Melissa officinalis
• 5 x plugs Tropaeolum majus
• 3 x Lavandula stoechas

Border Basics

Size: 3 x 6 feet
Suits: Any informal style of garden
Soil: Fertile, well-drained
Site: Sheltered position in full sun

Planting and Aftercare

The backbone of this planting is of woody sub-shrubs, which should be well spaced when planted. Rosemary will take a few of years to fulfil its promise and any gaps can be planted with various cultivars of nasturtium. Sow these in situ once all risk of frost has passed or sow one seed to a 3/4 x 3/4-inch module and plant out when the rootball is fully developed. Water in dry weather and deadhead lavender regularly to keep in flower. Let nasturtiums set seed and gather for sowing the following spring.

Salvia officinalis "Purpurascens" (Image 1)
Plants that survive outside in mild regions or sheltered sites, well-drained soil, full sun, award-winning plant.

Mentha suaveolens "Variegata" (Image 2)
Fully hardy plants, well-drained soil, moist soil, full sun

Rosmarinus officinalis (Image 3)
Plants that survive outside in mild regions or sheltered sites, well-drained soil, full sun

Melissa officinalis (Image 1)
Plants that survive outside in mild regions or sheltered sites, well-drained soil, full sun

Tropaeolum majus Alaska Series (Image 2)
Plants that need protection from frost over winter, well-drained soil, moist soil, full sun, award-winning plant

Lavandula stoechas (Image 3)
Plants that survive outside in mild regions or sheltered sites, well-drained soil, full sun, award-winning plant