Growing Calendula from Seed - How to

 Although it is late June, it is not too late to plant calendula seed and enjoy the flowers.  Calendula is an annual that grows well from seed and germinates in just a few days, especially when it is warm.  The bright yellow and orange flowers are edible and can be used to make salves and lotions because the petals are good for the skin.  We have featured this plant many times, both in an Herb of the Week post, as well as several posts on using it as an edible flower.

Now it is time to show you how easy it is to grow this herb from seed.

 Calendula seed is small, hook-shaped and kinda spiky looking.   They have a high germination rate and iff you get heirloom seed, the plants will produce enough seed for you to use year after year to grow more.

You can sow them directly in the ground, or in pots to transplant later.  I start seed in pots becasue I have a rabbit issue and they eat new seedlings, so I give everything a head start in a pot.

It only takes about 7 to 14 days to germinate when sown in soil that is 68 to 72 degrees F (20 to 22 degrees C.) To encourage germination, ensure the seeds are covered with about a seed thickness of soil, so about 1/8 to 1/4 inch and kept moist, but not water logged. These were thickly sown, so they need to be thinned.

Seedlings should appear quickly and as long as you keep them consistantly moist and avoid too much direct sunlight until they are ready for transplant in about 3 weeks.

Calendula needs about 6 hours of sunlight once the seedlings emerge.

Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted.  

I use a bead sorter  to remove the seedlings gently from the soil, then tease the roots apart and use a pencil to poke a hole in new soil in a new location.

In their final location they should be spaced 8 to 12 inches apart within a row with rows about 18 inches apart. 

Thinning is very important when the seeds are sown closely to encourage good airflow and help prevent disease. They will fill in naturally, so you do not want them to be too crowded to start, or they will not stay healthy.

I love them in containers, so I will place them in terra cotta pots, hanging baskets or other decorative planters.

These square post planters are my favorite showcase for calendula.  You can see how they fill in with greenery, then begin to bloom.  And I get to enjoy those flowers until frost, which has seems to arrive later and later each year.

So go find some calendula seed and start a sunny little spot in your garden soon.  And remember, they are edible and great for beauty products also. For more details on the habits and used of Calendula, check out the Herb of the Week post.

Summer Daze Tea - Tea Blend of the Month

Spearmint for cooling, flowers for summer brightness and a few immunity boosters so you stay healthy to enjoy the fun make this a tasty summer tea.

• 1 tsp spearmint
• 1 tsp dried lemongrass
• ½ tsp each elderflowers
• ½ tsp rose petals
• ½ tsp chamomile
• ½ tsp blackberry leaf
• Pinch of orange peel  (or purchase our ready-made tea blend!)

Mix ingredients together well and store in a tightly sealed jar

To Use: Bring cool water to a boil.  Place 1 tsp of the tea blend in a tea infuser, pour 1 cup of boiling water over and allow to steep for 5 – 6 minutes, preferably in a covered container.  For iced tea, allow to steep up to 12 minutes, then allow to cool to room temperature and add ice and add a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Gemini Zodiac Bath Blend - Bath Blend of the Month

Gemini is an Air sign ruled by Mercury, associated with communication, curiosity, and a light, energetic spirit. A bath blend for Gemini should be mentally refreshing, gently uplifting, and soothing to help ground their often-busy minds.

♊ Gemini Zodiac Bath Blend

Purpose: To refresh the mind, relax the body, and bring clarity and calm to Gemini's energetic spirit.

• 2 Tbsp Gemini Zodiac Herb Blend
  (Includes herbs lemon balm, lavender, dill, marjoram, and licorice root—aromatic, stimulating, and clarifying.)

• 1/4 cup Epsom salts
  (Relieves muscle tension and supports magnesium levels for relaxation.)

• 2 Tbsp baking soda
  (Softens water and soothes the skin.)

• 1 Tbsp dried chamomile flowers (optional)
  (To calm the nerves and enhance the soothing element.)

• 10 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
  (Balances Gemini’s energy and promotes peaceful thoughts.)

• Muslin bag or reusable tea sachet

Directions:

Combine the Gemini Zodiac Blend, Epsom salts, baking soda, and (if using) chamomile in a bowl. Add essential oil drops and mix well. Spoon 3 Tablspoons of mixture into a muslin bag or sachet. Store remaining in a tightly lidded jar. 

To Use: Hang the bag under the faucet as you fill the tub with warm water, allowing the herbs to steep and release their fragrance. Soak for 20–30 minutes. Breathe deeply, relax, and let your thoughts float like the air sign you are.

Making your own Citrus Bitters - How to

Bitters are a special ingredient in cocktails that lends a tang to a drink and are great in drinks based on gin, vodka or whiskey.  Bitters are also a digestive aid and these two recipes made with citrus are high in anti-oxidants and can assist with keeping blood sugar levels, well level.

Citrus Bitters

The bright flavor these lend to your ginger ale, seltzer, sparking water or spirits is amazing and unique; you may find you cannot live without it.

What you need to make these:

• 
  1 750-ml bottle of plain (unflavored) vodka
  
• 4 oranges, zest only from the entire orange
• 2 lemons, zest only from entire lemon
• 1 Tbls fennel seeds
• 1 3-inch cinnamon stick
• ½ tsp whole cloves
• ½ tsp coriander seed

Steps:

Peel the zest from the lemons and oranges, getting all the orange and yellow peel, but none of the white pith underneath.  

Add the citrus peels and the fennel, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves in a 1-quart mason jar.  

Pour in the vodka until the jar is full

Seal tightly and give it a shake to blend and get everything wet. Label the jar with date started.

Place the jar in a cool, dark area for 4 to 8 weeks shaking every other day or so.

Once infused, strain the bitters using a fine mesh strainer

Transfer the liquid to 4-ounce amber dropper jars for long term storage at room temperature. 

Recipe makes 6 4-ounce jars.

Recipes using bitters:

Old-Fashioned Cocktail

• 1 1/2  oz. Bourbon Whiskey
• 3 Dashes Citrus Bitters
• Pinch of raw sugar
• Slice of orange
• Cherry to garnish

Mixology:

In a rocks glass, muddle the sugar and bitters. Add ice and orange, then pour the bourbon on top. Stir gently to mix. Garnish with a cherry.

Bitters Mayonnaise Drizzle

This has a tangy, creamy, and slightly citrus-bitter flavor that would pair beautifully with a variety of dishes.

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp. grated pecorino Romano cheese or a tangy Parmesan
• 1 tsp. grated lemon peel
• 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp. citrus bitters

Whisk together mayonnaise, cheese, lemon peel, lemon juice and bitters. Set aside.

To serve, warm up mayonnaise in microwave for 15-30 seconds; stir well. Drizzle over hot vegetables (see recipe below).

🥔Great over potatoes: Roasted fingerling potatoes, crispy smashed baby potatoes, grilled sweet potato planks, herbed potato wedges

🐟 Fun on Seafood: Especially mild, flaky fish: Grilled or baked cod, halibut, or tilapia;  seared scallops, drizzle on shrimp skewers; Add as a topping or side dip to crab cakes

🍗 Chicken & Poultry as an aioli to serve on grilled or baked chicken breasts or thighs; roast turkey sliders, or chicken skewers with herbs

🥗 Salads & Grain Bowls can be enhanced with a warm dressing or finishing drizzle

 

Roasted Vegetables

• 1-2 lbs. asparagus spears, green beans, broccoli raab, rapine or Chinese broccoli (or a combination)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp. citrus bitters
• Makes 4 - 8 servings

Directions:

Rinse vegetables and drain well. Break off tough ends from asparagus. Remove stems from green beans. Whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, 1 Tbsp. lemon juice and 1 tsp. bitters. Brush liberally on vegetables; let stand 15 minutes.

Heat a large iron fry pan over medium heat. Place vegetables in pan in a single a layer. Cook about 5 minutes or until lightly browned. (The time depends on how thick the vegetables are.) Turn and cook 3-5 minutes more or until tender. Cook in two or three batches, if necessary.

Cheese Crostini with honey bitters

• 1/2 cup local light honey
• 1/2 tsp. citrus bitters
• French style baguette
• Tangy cheese (soft goat cheese, blue cheese, blue stilton, Gorgonzola, or brie)

Directions:

Stir bitters into honey. Pour into a squeeze bottle, if desired.

Thinly slice baguette and toast lightly; cool. Top each piece with cheese. Drizzle bitters honey. Serve immediately.

🌟 Introducing Zodiac Herb Blends: Herbs Written in the Stars 🌿

We have not created a whole line of products like this since the beginning of our herb catalog in 1994, so this launch of 12 new blends took some time and effort, but we are very excited to share a line of Zodiac Herb Blends -- one for each sign.

Ever wondered what herbs match your zodiac sign? Whether you’re a fiery Aries or a dreamy Pisces, the stars may have something to say about your herbal preferences—and your energetic needs. That’s exactly what inspired me to create Zodiac Herb Blends, a brand-new collection from Backyard Patch Herbs.

🔮 What Inspired Zodiac Herb Blends?
Astrology has always held a special fascination for me—not just as a fun personality guide, but as a system rich with symbolism and tradition. Pair that with my decades-long passion for herbs, and you’ve got a recipe for something magical. Herbs, like celestial bodies, have been revered for their energetic properties for centuries. Many plants are linked to specific planets and elements, echoing the same traits we find in the zodiac signs. I wanted to explore this connection deeply and create something that speaks to both the soul and the senses.

🌿 How I Chose the Herbs for Each Sign
Each zodiac sign carries its own flavor—energetically, emotionally, and sometimes even literally! I dug into classic herbal texts and cross-referenced planetary influences, ruling elements, and the core characteristics of each sign. Then came the fun part—blending. I selected herbs that harmonize with each sign’s vibe, whether that’s the invigorating warmth of rosemary for Aries or the calming sweetness of chamomile for Cancer. Each blend is carefully crafted not just for flavor, but for balance and energetic support.

🌟 More Than Just a Cooking Blend
These are not just seasoning mixes. They are deeply versatile blends meant to integrate into your life however you need them. Brew them into tea for reflection, stir them into soups and stews for nourishment, infuse them into oils for ritual or massage, or sprinkle into a bath for self-care. I wanted each blend to be an invitation—to savor your sign, connect to your nature, and maybe even discover a little stardust in your everyday.

♈ Example: Aries – Bold & Bright
Let’s take Aries as an example. This sign is ruled by Mars, the planet of action and energy, and is known for boldness, initiative, and a zest for life. The Aries blend reflects that spark with invigorating herbs like cayenne pepper and rosemary, balanced with thyme and basil to keep that fire from burning out. It’s the perfect pick-me-up for those born under Aries—or anyone needing a burst of courage.

♋ Cancer – Gentle & Nurturing
In contrast, Cancer, ruled by the Moon, is all about nurturing, emotional depth, and intuition. Its blend is soothing and restorative, with herbs like lemon balm and chamomile that promote calm, sleep, and heart-centered connection. It’s like a gentle hug in a cup of tea.

🌿 Is Your Own Sign the only one for you? Not at All!
One of my favorite things about astrology is its depth. Your sun sign might be your anchor, but your moon, rising, and even Venus signs tell a bigger story. I encourage you to explore beyond your primary sign—let your intuition (or your taste buds!) guide you. Each blend was crafted to resonate, but they’re all grounded in flavor and wellness, so feel free to mix, match, and make them your own. We even made a post with detailed suggestions for other matching signs: Moon and Rising sign suggestions.

✨ My Personal Favorite?
That’s the hardest question of all! I truly love them all, but if I had to choose, I’d say I have a soft spot for my own sign, Virgo. The combination of parsley, basil, rosemary, chives, thyme, and fennel is so vibrant, grounding, and kitchen-ready—it’s a go-to in my own spice cabinet.

🛍️ Ready to Find Your Herbal Match?

I’m thrilled to announce that the Zodiac Herb Blends are now officially available! Visit the Zodiac Collection on the Backyard Patch Herbs website to discover the blend crafted for your sign—or the one that calls to you most. Whether you're drawn to astrology, herbalism, or just love a good kitchen experiment, there's something here for you.

Let the stars guide your herbs—and may every blend bring a little cosmic joy to your day!

Edible Flower and Thyme Shortbread Cookies - How to

Edible Flower and Thyme Shortbread Cookies

• 14 Tbsp (2 sticks minus 2 Tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice (optional, but use 2 more Tbsp butter in its place)
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 cup arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
• 3-4 Tbsp minced fresh edible flower petals (calendula, nasturtium, violets, pansy, borage, lavender, or any other edible herb flower in a mix or singly)
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh thyme
• pinch salt

Steps:

Cream together the butter and sugar.

Then add the egg yolk, lemon juice and lemon zest (if using) and stir to combine. 

Then add the flour, arrowroot, flowers, thyme, and salt.  

Gently stir everything together until the dough barely holds together. It will seem a bit floury.  

Take the dough out of the bowl and form it into a log shape. 

Wrap it tightly with parchment paper, twisting the ends to help hold it all together. 

Put in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes, or until firm. 

When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 300°F. Unwrap the log and slice the log into 1/4 inch rounds. 

Put them on a parchment lined baking sheet, about an inch or so apart. 

Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check them closely after 25 minutes. 

Take them out when only the edges just barely start to turn golden. The centers will still be fairly soft. 

Let them cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. They will firm up as they cool. 

To make them special, you can add fresh flowers to the centers of the cookies while they are still warm.    

                                            

Here are the directions grouped together:

Directions:

Cream together the butter and sugar, then add the egg yolk, lemon juice and lemon zest (if using) and stir to combine. Then add the flour, arrowroot, flowers, thyme, and salt.  Gently stir everything together until the dough barely holds together. It will seem a bit floury.  Take the dough out of the bowl and form it into a log shape. Wrap it tightly with parchment paper, twisting the ends to help hold it all together. Put in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes, or until firm. You can store the dough for several days in the fridge, or for several weeks in the freezer, if need be. When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 300°F. Slice the log into 1/4 inch rounds. Put them on a parchment lined baking sheet, about an inch or so apart. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check them closely after 25 minutes. Take them out when only the edges just barely start to turn golden. The centers will still be fairly soft. Add fresh flowers to the center of the cookies, then let them cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. They will firm up as they cool. Recipe adapted from www.growforagecookferment.com

Aroma Balm Solid Perfume - Bath Blend of the Month

This is a wonderful item to make for yourself or as a gift. The essential oils in the blend give an aroma that help with anxiety, stress, and tension. If you are making only a couple for yourself, cut the recipe down to ¼ the original size. For the full recipe, you need 12 to 14 round 1-ounce tins or heat resistant jars to pour the liquid into.  It is best to warm the base ingredients in a double boiler or a bowl over water, rather than directly on the stove.

Base --

• 1 ½ cup almond oil
  
• ½ cup grapeseed oil
• 1 tsp vitamin E oil
• ½ cup beeswax pastilles or grated beeswax

Essential oil blend –

• 20 drops clary sage
• 20 drop sweet marjoram
• 20 drop vetiver
• 10 drop juniper
• 10 drop lavender

Directions:

Mix essential oils together in a glass bottle and roll between the palms of your hands to combine.  Set aside.

Using a double boiler, gently warm carrier oils over medium heat.  Add the beeswax and stir together until completely melted to liquid, but do not boil.  Remove from heat and immediately pour into 1 oz, containers.  Drop 6 drops of essential oil blend into each tin and screw lids on tight.  Makes 14.