Last week, the weather warmed up, and we planted our aromatic herbs in our Balcony Planters. Our little garden in the city grows herbs and a few tomatoes. Of course, the expectation is set not too high here. Sure, it is not a bountiful harvest of edibles. Instead, an ambrosial orchestra. Mostly, musical disposition in green ink. And, off and on, a casual nibble of tiny leaves. Definitely, not enough Cilantro for chutney or basil for pesto. However, I can pluck a few fragrant leaves to garnish stir-fries or flavor weeknight pasta. Who doesn’t like that culinary dish with an extra kick of flavor?
Here is my report on what I got and what is to come, eventually.
My planters and Pots are loaded with Basil, Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano, Sage, Tarragon, Marjoram, Leeks, and Chives. I plan to use them mainly for Italian, French, and Mediterranean flavors. Bring them on for Pasta, Sauces, Soups, Potatoes, Latkes, or Rice Pilafs.
For more Asian Stir-Fries, Fried Rice, Noodles, I will use my Green Onions, Basil and Chives.
For Indian and Mexican enhancements, there is Cilantro. And the abundantly growing Mint for Chutneys, Cocktails, or to marinate. Also, a little bit of stunning, sweet-scented herbal tea, potpourri, and bedside sachets there are Lavender.
Patience! I need to add Lemongrass to this mix for our Indian Chai. Lastly, I can definitely plant Holy Basil or sacred plant Tulsi from the Indian subcontinent. We use it for religious and traditional medicine purposes. After all, shouldn’t one own up to their name origin ~ Manjiri (means Small flower of Holy Basil).
All these functional plants are an excellent addition to my Balcony. On another note, there are always the blazing and colorful Begonias, Marigolds, and Petunias. Evidently for keeping the pretty butterflies, Ladybugs, and Bees happy!
Ahh…Such Gardening pleasures found in the city planters!
Just a Little Bit More …
~ If you are a Balcony Garen Enthusiast, head here for my previous post.
~ Not only Aerial Photography but speaking of Negative Space in art. These Top Down Portraits by Brad Walls!
~ Furthermore, these lovely Art Prints from a Graphic Design Studio, By Garmi.