Herbs 



vigorous that it is easier to raise them from seed than to secure a 

 succession from slips or cuttings. To meet a large and continuous 

 demand in the kitchen there must be a proportionate plantation in 

 the border ; but in gardens of medium size we do not advocate the 

 culture of Herbs on an extensive scale, unless there be a special 

 object in view. A moderate number of Herbs will meet the neces- 

 sities of most families. Still it is a fact that the tendency is always 

 in the direction of increased variety, for the simple reason that people 

 have learned to live well, and the cooks call on the gardeners for 

 frequent changes of flavouring Herbs, some of which are quite as 

 highly prized in salads as they are for culinary purposes. 



In the smallest gardens, Mint, Parsley, Sage and both Common 

 and Lemon Thyme, must find a place. In gardens which have any 

 pretension to supply the needs of a luxurious table there should be 

 added Basil, Chives, Pot and Sweet Marjoram, Summer and Winter 

 Savory, Sorrel, Tarragon, and others that may be in especial favour. 

 Large gardens generally contain a plot, proportioned to demands, of 

 all the varieties which follow. 



Several of the most popular Herbs, such as Chives, Mint, Tarra- 

 gon, and Lemon Thyme, are not grown from seed at all events, those 

 who venture on the pastime might employ their labour to greater 

 advantage. But others, such as Basil, Borage, Chervil, Dill, Fennel, 

 Marjoram, Marigold, Parsley, Savory, &c., are grown from seed, in 

 some cases of necessity, and in others because it is the quicker and 

 easier way of securing a crop. 



Angelica and Mint flourish in moist soil, but the majority of 

 aromatic Herbs succeed on land that is dry, poor, and somewhat 

 sandy, rather than in the rich borders that usually prevail in the 

 Kitchen Garden. Happily they are not very particular, but sunshine 

 they must have for the secretion of their fragrant essences. A narrow 

 border marked off in drills, and, if possible, sloping to the south, will 

 answer admirably. Thin the plants in good time, and the thinnings 

 of those wanted in quantity may, if necessary, be transplanted. The 

 soil must be kept free from weeds, and every variety be allowed 

 sufficient space for full development. 



Angelica (A. Archangeli cd). A native biennial, easily grown as 

 an annual from seed sown in April, or a sowing can be made in 

 September. The leaves and stalks are sometimes blanched and 

 eaten as Celery, and are also boiled with meat and fish. Occasion- 

 ally the tender stems and mid-ribs are coated with candied sugar as a 

 confection. Angelica was formerly supposed to possess great medicinal 



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