Articles

What smells like bedbugs to some and makes guacamole sing to others? Meet cilantro and coriander — the same plant with a double identity, a tangled history and a scent that’s stirred everything from ancient remedies to Chanel No. 5.

From sneaky garden strolls to spider mite sleuthing, it’s peak season for green thumbs and nosy neighbors alike. Stay ahead of deer, beetles, and the heat with Ron Kujawski’s no-nonsense tips for keeping your garden thriving through the summer swelter. 

Clary Sage, Betony and poppy take center stage this week. Plus, the Herb Associates have stocked the Gift Shop with jellies, syrups, dressings, and finishing salts for your summer entertaining needs!

Pick your zucchini before they get out of hand and protect your berries from marauding birds! Plus, garlic maintenance and caring for your pruners. Ron has your garden tasks for early July!

At the BBG’s Herb Display Garden, English lavender is dazzling noses and eyes alike, while nearby yarrow holds its own as a healing hero straight out of ancient lore. Meanwhile, in the herb kitchen, the crew is whipping up everything from chive blossom vinegar to garlic scape jam—proving once again that herbs aren’t just pretty, they’re powerful (and delicious).

There's a lot of maintenance this week, especially in the vegetable garden. Plus, tips to combat plant mildew and Japanese beetles.

Lady's Mantle and Valerian take center stage this week as the Herb Associates celebrate the Solstice.

Hot days require more care and watering. Follow Ron's tips to keep your garden (and yourself) from wilting in the heat.

This week Rue and the Gas Plant take the spotlight — both historic healers with a flair for drama (and a risk of skin irritation), from witch-repelling remedies and butterfly buffets to flammable flowers. 

Summer is here, and maintenance is key during these hotter, drier days. Follow Ron's checklist for this week's garden tasks, water and fertilizer tips and instructions for the successful transplanting of trees, shrubs and flowers.

It was "all hands on deck" this week with cleanup and planting in the Herb Display Garden. Mints, chamomile and thyme herbs are abundant, and two new selections have been added: curry and stevia.

So much to do, so little time! Ron can help you make a list of the most important things to do this week...including, maybe, giving Dad a hand on Father's Day.

By Barbara F. Smith

Beautiful sunny weather greeted the BBG Herb Associates volunteers this week – what a relief from the previous colder, rainy days that seemed to stretch on forever. 

There's lots of work to do now that the sun is out! Plant more herbs, harvest garlic scapes for heavenly pesto, and, of course, it's time to look for pests on your plants!

Orris root and cranesbill, and making use of rhubarb and lemon balm!

Ron's to-do list continues! Potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, pole beans, and eggplants are the stars this week! Also, don't forget to mulch!