Nature Journaling: Exploring a Kitchen Herb Garden by Karen Houlding
Did you know that keeping a nature journal can enrich your understanding of herbs and their many uses, as well as creating a valuable reference? Picture yourself making discoveries in the three rows of herbs at the Heritage Garden, documenting plant growth, and learning about their benefits. This is the relaxing, yet educational and creative practice of maintaining a nature journal.
The warmth and sunlight of spring will soon awaken plants from their seasonal slumber. The Heritage Herb Garden features culinary, medicinal and utilitarian herb plants that were essential in the daily lives of early settlers. These herbs were more than flavorings—they were a vital part of every homestead’s kitchen garden for cooking, healing and practical purposes. Culinary herbs such as thyme and rosemary were staples that enhanced simple meals with rich, earthy flavors and doubled as anti-inflammatory remedies for colds, flus and digestive aids. Plants were also cultivated for their calming properties; chamomile was brewed into teas to soothe digestive issues and the fragrant aroma of lavender was harnessed in sachets to promote restful sleep. Herbs were practical companions around the home; mint repelled insects while fragrant lavender sachets kept linens and clothing fresh.
To start your exploration of herbs, gather a pencil and a blank journal along with any reference books or guides. Spend time closely observing the herbs, noticing their leaf shape, size, color, texture and scent. In your journal, sketch a simple outline of the plant to capture its essence, noting any questions that arise. Complement your visual sketch with interesting facts about the herb’s culinary and medicinal properties and any historical significance you find through trusted reference sources. This makes the journal not just a learning tool, but a valuable reference for incorporating herbs from your own backyard garden into meals and home remedies. Join us at the Heritage Garden throughout the spring and summer for monthly nature journaling, as we explore heritage plants, honoring the wisdom of the early settlers.