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Oregano:

If you're someone who uses store-bought dried oregano on a regular basis, you're going to love the experience of growing it fresh. There's something about the flavor of fresh oregano in your food that hits differently from the store-bought variety. And the best part is, growing your own oregano isn't as hard as you might think. With a bit of attention and plenty of sunlight, oregano is a hardy plant that will thrive on your windowsill herb garden.

Not all oregano is the same. This genus boasts a whopping 45 species, 6 subspecies, and 3 varieties. However, the best-known variety is Greek oregano (Origanum vulgare var. hirtum). Sometimes known as true oregano or Italian oregano, this is the familiar herb used on pizzas and in tomato sauces. It is a staple in Italian cuisine, commonly used in various dishes, pizza, and sauces. Its unique flavor profile, reminiscent of mint, is a key component of many beloved recipes.

There's also Mexican Oregano,(one we use often) a variety more frequently used in Latin cuisine. This type of oregano brings a unique twist to dishes like chili, salsa, and beans. Unlike the minty undertones of "regular" or Italian oregano, Mexican oregano has lemon and citrus flavors as well as some tones of licorice. This flavor combination makes it an indispensable addition to many Latin recipes..

To grow from seed follow the directions on the back of the seed packet. To promote growth, use a liquid or pellet fertilizer. Oregano needs quick-draining soil and a pot with a drainage hole.Oregano needs bright, indirect light in order to thrive. Less light than that will make the plant leggy and weak. When it’s time to harvest be sure to cut off a stem and then strip the leaves. Use fresh or dry for later.

Whether you prefer the minty freshness of Italian oregano or the citrusy twist of Mexican oregano, growing your own herbs can add a new dimension to your cooking. Different types of oregano bring delicious flavor to our favorite foods, making them an excellent addition to any kitchen. So why not give it a shot? Grow your own oregano, and bring a fresh and flavorful twist to your meals.

Cilantro:

The word 'Cilantro' alone is enough to make you want to dance. The vibrant green leaves, their unique aroma and the fresh, zesty flavor they bring to your favorite dishes - it's like music in your mouth that makes your hips move. Remember those childhood days when getting your favorite food, like pizza or cake and ice cream, would make you do a little dance out of pure, innocent joy? Well, adding fresh cilantro to your meal brings out that very child in you, filling you with unadulterated happiness.

But what if you could grow this magical herb right at home, ensuring a fresh supply whenever you need it? Yes, you read it right. Growing cilantro is easier than you think. You can easily grow it from seeds, seedlings, or cuttings, indoors or out. The lifecycle of cilantro is relatively brief. It sprouts quickly in the cooler months, is ready to harvest in as little as 30 days, and then bolts and flowers under the hot summer sun, leaving you with the seeds (called coriander) that are used as a spice. If your goal is leaf production and harvest, sow cilantro successively over three to four weeks and ensure your plants get some afternoon shade to slow bolting.

Collecting seeds for growing cilantro can be as simple as visiting your garden, using seeds from an organic cilantro plant, or buying seeds from a reliable source online or at a store. Thanks to cilantro's quick growth, most gardeners sow seeds directly into the soil soon after the last frost in the spring. However, if you want to grow your cilantro indoors, start your seeds in potting soil and small containers. Keep the soil moist and expose the plants to indoor plant lights once the seeds germinate. Then, transfer them to a larger pot and place it in a sunny window.

Alternatively, you can purchase seedlings and skip the whole germination process. This method requires you to ensure your little seedling gets plenty of light and adequate water. Remember, the key to successful growth is to prevent the soil from getting soggy.

So, why wait? Start growing your own cilantro today and bring the joy of fresh, homegrown herbs to your kitchen. Not only will you add a dash of flavor to your meals, but you'll also add a dash of fun to your life, one cilantro leaf at a time.

Green Onions/Scallions:

Green onions, also known as scallions or spring onions, are a versatile vegetable that can easily be grown at home. Although technically not an herb, they have a unique flavor that can enhance a variety of dishes. What's more, they are hardy, low maintenance, and can be grown indoors or outdoors. This makes them an ideal plant for those who want to try their hand at home gardening.

What are Green Onions? Green onions, aka scallions or spring onions, are sold with a root end that you always trim off before using the green stalks and slim white bulb in recipes. They are a more robust version of chives, which are considered an herb. But did you know you can encourage those root ends to regrow new green onions? It's one of the reasons why they are on my list of vegetables to grow at home.

How to Regrow Green Onions from Scraps If you've ever bought green onions, you've probably noticed the root end that you trim off before using the rest of the plant. These root ends can actually be used to regrow new green onions. Here's how:

Slice off the ends of the bulbs, leaving roots attached. Stand the bulbs root-end down in a small jar. Add enough water to cover the roots, but leave the top edges above water. Set on a windowsill and keep the roots moist. Change water at least once a week. When the shoots are four or five inches long, you can plant them in the ground or a pot filled with good quality potting soil.

If you prefer to start from scratch, you can also grow green onions from seeds. The process is a bit more involved, but it's still quite simple:

Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep. As with other onions, germination can be slow and poor. The most important factor green onion seeds need is constant moisture, which makes starting them indoors where you can keep an eye on them a good choice. Seedlings should emerge in one to two weeks. Once you have growth, thin the seedlings to about 2 inches apart.

When it comes to potting green onions, using a quality, well-draining, organic potting mix is essential. Water at the time of planting to evenly moisten the soil. For a continual harvest, succession-plant new crops every three to four weeks. This way, you'll always have fresh green onions at your disposal.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a complete beginner, growing your own green onions is a rewarding experience. Not only will you have a fresh, delicious ingredient for your meals, but you'll also have the satisfaction of knowing you grew it yourself. So why not give it a try?

If you're interested in learning how to cultivate your own herbs and vegetables, our YouTube channel "EPM Around the Way Gardners" is the perfect resource for you. Regardless of your available space - be it a bookcase, balcony, or backyard - we provide step-by-step guidance through videos.