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FEATURED PLANTS

Greek Oregano

Lavender COMING SOON

Rosemary

Sage

Thyme COMING SOON

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The following herbs grow best in the high pH formulation of MEDITERRANEA soil-less potting mix, perfect for Mediterranean herbs

For tropical herbs that require a potting mix with neutral pH, click here.

Greek Oregano

Most herb lovers would agree that Greek Oregano (Origanum vulgaris hirtum) has a flavor so intense it numbs the end of your tongue when fresh, and like all culinary oreganos, the flower of Greek Oregano is white. Chefs seem to prefer this oregano to others. It has a warm peppery flavor that greatly compliments basil in Italian dishes. Add fresh oregano to your dishes for an extra nutrient punch. A tablespoon has a higher yield than an entire apple and the best part is -- calorie count for herbs are practically non-existent.

When shopping for this plant or its seeds, it’s important to know exactly what you're looking for. Pictured above is the true Greek Oregano and must not be confused with the coarse and hairy plant locally just referred to as 'oregano' which is actually Cuban Oregano and is best known for its medicinal properties against cough.

Greek Oregano is a very aromatic herb that has a strong spicy flavor. Just a small amount can transform any supermarket-bought spaghetti sauce into a Mediterranean culinary delight. Harvest fresh leaves just before cooking and use when the dish is almost done because it doesn’t hold up well to prolonged cooking – too much heat makes it lose its flavor. Unlike most herbs, its flavor also mellows with drying so having it fresh is always the best option.

Rosemary

Many herb growers think that Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is the most difficult herb to grow. Particularly when the rainy season hits and rosemary plants suddenly go brown and say goodbye.

Most of the time, too much moisture around the roots is the source of the problem. Rosemary absolutely do not like humid conditions. They love lots of sun and a free-flowing breeze.

Here’s a trick, if you have an air conditioner, you can actually position your pot of rosemary near -- but not right next to -- the compressor’s exhaust (yup, not the cool indoor side, but on the outside where the warm gust of air can reach it and keep the air around the plant dry).

In the Philippines, rosemary plants are best grown in pots to protect its roots from torrential rains. Even overwatering can easily kill your rosemary so water only when the surface of the potting mix is dry. It must be allowed to dry out between waterings. Use Mediterranea Soil-less Potting Mix -- it’s quick draining and also has the right pH for alkaline-loving plants like rosemary.

Choose a sunny spot for your rosemary, but it’s important to keep it shielded from too much rain. A window ledge would be great, preferably facing south -- or a porch or patio that gets sunlight but has a roof to shelter your plant. Never choose a north-facing area because the rosemary will be starved for sunlight.

Herbs sort of get the feeling that they’re ignored and unloved if you don't pinch and cut them. Harvest throughout the year. If you do not cut the plant at all, the stem will become woody. Avoid cutting into the woody parts to encourage development of the plant.

Sage

If you’re a believer in natural healing, then you must have a huge pot or more of Sage(Salvia officinalis). The Latin name, salvia, means “to heal". Its leaves, flowers and stems all have healing properties. Studies support its effects as an anhidrotic, antibiotic, antifungal, astringent, antispasmodic, estrogenic, hypoglycemic, and tonic.

Sage is used to alleviate respiratory infection, nasal congestion, coughs, tonsillitis and sore throats. It helps with indigestion and with the liver. If you suffer from bleeding gums, combine sage with your toothpaste to help remove plaque and strengthen gums.

Problems with growing sage usually arise from too much water, too little sun or not enough circulating air. Give your plants lots of sun and avoid overwatering. Frequent harvesting and pruning helps to reinvigorate sage plants. They prefer alkaline conditions so plant them in pots using Mediterranea Soil-less Potting Mix. Grow your plants organically to get the best aroma and for improved potency. It will also make it perfectly safe for culinary use or for tea.

Sage leaves are a popular poultry and meat seasoning. It also makes a nice tea. To make sage tea, pour boiling water over sage leaves (about 3 - 5 leaves to a cup). Steep for ten minutes. Strain then drink. You can also add honey to sweeten.