This guide to growing and using backyard medicinals is meant to be a starting point for any new gardening effort, especially for those who haven’t tried growing any medicinal plants before. There are tons of wonderful resources out there that can expand your expertise and provide a wealth of indepth information. Here are some of my favorite resources.
BACKYARD BERRY PLANTS
This company specializes in organically grown blueberry, blackberry, and raspberry plants. In addition to being a supplier, the company has a wealth of information online about site preparation, plant care, and supplies. Be sure to check out the “other plants” section of the site for limited-time offers.
COOL SPRINGS PRESS
In the spirit of full transparency, the book you’re holding right now was published by Cool Springs Press, so maybe I’m a bit biased. But the publisher has tons of other great titles, so I consider my bias justified.
HIGH MOWING SEEDS
If you’re looking for non-GMO, all-organic seeds, this is a great resource. They have a wide range of vegetables and herbs, as well as a blog about growing practices, food preservation, and other topics.
HORIZON HERBS
One of the best-known seed companies in the world for medicinals, Horizon offers a huge array of herbs and other plants. They also feature mixes that are fun and economical, like the “Tasty Tea Collection” that puts together chamomile, fennel, hibiscus, spearmint, and tulsi, all for a price that’s much lower than buying all those seed packets individually.
This company is a treasured resource among farmers and gardeners, and for good reason. The site has videos, planting guides, herb growing charts, seed charts, and interactive tools.
JOURNAL OF HERBS, SPICES & MEDICINAL PLANTS
www.tandfonline.com/toc/whsm20/current
As you’ve probably noticed from the extensive use of academic studies included in this book, I love to geek out on research. There are many great journals that let me get my fix, and this is one of the best for glancing through. Many of the articles require a subscription, but you can view the abstracts for free.
MOUNTAIN ROSE HERBS
This is simply one of the best places ever to get herbal preparation supplies, from beeswax and carrier oils to multiple types of butters that are perfect for your medicinal concoctions. The company also hosts a series of free lectures by world-renowned herbalists that can be accessed online at freeherbalismproject.com.
PEACEFUL VALLEY
This site is like catnip (or like catnip tea if that’s your groove) for gardeners. Not only does it feature seeds, bare root trees, and plants, but you can also order greenhouses, frost protection, tools, and equipment.
SEED SAVERS EXCHANGE
This nonprofit organization is focused on saving and sharing heirloom seeds. Reading through the catalog is always compelling because they share little stories about where the seeds originated. They also provide very clear instructions about planting and tips for better growing.
SEEDS OF CHANGE
Another strong choice for organic seeds, this site also has a nice collection of tools and supplies, including wooden planter boxes and “yield pots,” which are lightweight, durable, and breathable options for an outdoor or indoor garden.