Nasturtiums are annuals that have round, partially scalloped leaves that resemble water lily pads. The vibrant blooms, which are funnel-shaped and have a short spur on the underside, come in a variety of colors including golden yellow, orange, red, and crimson.Native to Central and South America, there are more than…
Brussels sprouts, which were named after the capital of Belgium where they were first grown in the 16th century, are members of the brassica family. Their large leaves are reminiscent of other brassicas such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and mustard greens. These miniature cabbage look-alikes have grown in popularity in…
Broccoli is a member of the brassica family, along with cabbage, kale, cauliflower, radishes, and Brussels sprouts. The word broccoli is the plural form of the Italian word broccolo, which means "flowering crest of a cabbage." This beautiful green vegetable originated in Italy, where it is thought to have been…
Spinach has been around since antiquity. Originating in Persia, this leafy green was introduced to India, where it was then acquired by the Chinese in about 647 A.D. and given the name the Persian vegetable. It wasn't until the 14th century that Spain introduced it to England and France. Spinach…
These days, purple, red, yellow, and white carrots are all the rage. But vibrant colored varieties are nothing new. Indeed, carrots have a colorful past. This root crop, which hails from Afghanistan, was originally purple, black, red, white, and green. It wasn't until the 17th century when the Dutch cultivated…
Carrots are members of the Apiaceae family along with celery, dill, coriander, parsley, cumin, parsnip, and fennel. Carrots are perhaps best known for being a source of beta carotene, an antioxidant which the body converts to vitamin A. This root vegetable also has significant amounts of vitamins K and B6,…
Broccoli is a member of the Brassica family which includes cabbage, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and radishes. It is a favorite of new and experienced gardeners alike. As a cold weather crop, it is best suited for late fall and early spring gardens. While it is relatively easy to grow,…
Beets are an amazing root crop that you can easily grow in traditional beds or container gardens. But as with all vegetable crops, sometimes we don't always get the harvest we had hoped for. Sometimes, instead of beautifully formed beets, we harvest ones that are small and not fully developed. …
Beets don't get enough respect. Let's face it, while the leaves are striking, the roots themselves are not the most beautiful vegetable in the garden. Nevertheless, this earthy yet sweet root is easy to grow. It is full of fiber and healthy nutrients like potassium, iron, manganese, and vitamin C. …
Thyme, a member of the mint family, is considered a perennial herb in most zones. It has small leaves and woody stems. Like lavender, thyme originated in the Mediterranean, so it is no surprise that it thrives in warm, sunny climates. It is considered low maintenance and a great addition…