Herbs for the Home

Herbs have long been relied upon for culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal use. They are not only aromatic and attractive, but health-giving, and valuable in both the home and garden. And as Americans seek a healthier and more natural lifestyle, there has been a resurgence of interest in these most generous of plants, for cooking, household products, alternative medicines, and cosmetics. Now, Jekka McVicar, a leading grower of herbs in the United Kingdom, has produced Herbs for the Home: A Definitive Sourcebook to Growing and Using Herbs. This volume, the culmination of her years of hands-on experience, offers a complete and practical guide to the uses and cultivation of herbs. Drawing on her love of herbs and her wealth of practical knowledge as an herb farmer, Jekka fosters confidence and inspiration in the novice herb enthusiast and provides a broad range of ideas for the experienced gardener. Herbs for the Home is an indispensable, lavishly illustrated A-to-Z guide that details more than 335 plants, from the most well known to many not explored in other books. Every spread contains step-by-step information about cultivation and propagation, and applications from the epicurean to the decorative. The insightful and fascinating history of each herb includes the myths and magic associated with it, and is complemented with 200 recipes and culinary ideas. And, along with more than 1,000 full-color photographs that illustrate each entry, there are chapters on propagation, harvesting, using herbs as dyes, and a special section on herbal vinegars.