Capt. S.K.BHANDARI, Chief Consultant at Agro Services & Farm Input Consultants, Dehra recommends the following herbs which can be grown in your herb garden...
Amaranth is a rich source for vitamins A, C, iron, calcium, folic acid, nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, manganese and zinc. It is used to battle stomach flu, diarrhea, and gastoenteritis. It was used by Red Indians in America to stop menstruation and for contraception. Applied externally, it can reduce tissue swelling from sprains and tick bites. Not to be used by pregnant or lactating women. It can be cooked and eaten as a meal.
Quick tips
Make periodical cuts every 10 t0 12 days, after 25 to 30 days of germination as it helps the plant to put forth new shoots fast. By this method several harvests can be had till it starts flowering when it is unfit for consumption.
They are a rich source of vitamins A, B1, B2 and C. Used in salads and cooking.
Quick tips
If this plant is planted successfully, with proper care it will yield crop for 15 to 20 years. The sowing should be in nurseries after the rainy season. To expedite the germination, soak the seeds in water for 3 to 5 days. Transplant when the plants are 15 to 20 cm tall in rows. For best results do not harvest in the first year. The shoots are called spears and should be harvested second year onwards.
Fresh flower petals can be sprinkled on salads and dried petals can be added to soups. Calendula flowers contain antiseptic, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties that promote healing.. A cold infusion may be used as an eyewash. It is said that the sap from the stem has a reputation for removing warts and corns. There are many skin and cosmetic preparations that contain calendula. Infuse the flowers and use as a skin lotion to reduce large pores, nourish and clear the skin, and clear up spots and pimples.
Quick tips
Grow the plant in the flower bed. From time to time pinch out the growing tips, and deadhead flowers to encourage more blooms.
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