Herb

How to Go Green: Buy Organic Herbs

What makes an herb organic?
An herb is organic if it was grown without the use of chemicals such as pesticides or herbicides. Organic herbs are better for the environment and more affordable for a consumer to grow in his or her own garden, usually using compost fertilizer and a technique called companion gardening instead of buying chemicals and products at the store.?

How are organic herbs grown?
Organic herbs are usually grown in gardens that utilize a practice called “companion gardening.” Basically, this is growing plants together that get along. The Native Americans practiced this, planting corn, squash, and beans together. The beans would provide nitrogen for the other plants, the corn stalks would provide something for the beans to climb, and the squash would cover the ground, sealing in moisture. Another example is growing garlic and roses together because the garlic wards off aphids, which eat the roses. Using companion gardening can greatly eliminate the need for pesticides because it uses natural elements to ward off pests. Compost fertilizer is also often used when growing organic herbs. This eliminates the need for store bought or chemical fertilizers, and creates a place to recycle yard waste and food scraps.?

Where can I buy organic herbs?
The internet is a great source to use when searching for organic herbs to use. You can buy them in bulk and have them delivered fresh to your door. A great site to use to order high-quality organic herbs is Mountain Rose Herbs, at www.mountainroseherbs.com. This website delivers bulk dried organic herbs, as well as seasonings and teas. They have 11 farm operations with 6 wild harvesting operations. Their products are certified organic by OTCO and kosher by Earth Kosher. They guarantee freshness and that their herbs are free of sulfates and chemicals. Prices are also very affordable, as low as $1.50 for 4oz. of organic herb.