The Herb Chronicles: Day 1

The First Part in the Hydroponic Anthology.

Hello higher-minded humans,

While we have been growing and working with plants for some time now, we just recently decided to start growing our own herbs. We purchased a hydroponics set to get everything started and set out on the non-stop thrill ride that is growing herbs. Our first generation went well. We started them in the hydroponics set-up, and transferred them to soil once they had a strong root system in place. We grew thyme, chamomile, oregano and valerian. They were our first generation and are now thriving in our outdoor portable greenhouse sitting on our balcony. Now, we start with Gen 2: Bigger, Stronger, Herbier.

We planted 11 different seeds. We had spots for 12, and if you are wondering why I didn’t plant for all 12, it is for the very important reason that I had accidentally retrieved only enough supplies for 11 and I didn’t feel like walking across the room all over again. So, 11 it was!!! I planted them on June 19th because it was my birthday, so we would always share that bond. Not all of them have begun their journey beyond the seed, but many of the herbs have started coming into their own.

Wormwood

Wormwood

This little one just recently started poking its head out, while it was one of the first to start its post-seed journey. It isn’t because it is lazy or anything. It is just that it is pretty chill, and maybe a little shy. It is the kind of herb that is the first to show up outside the house of the party but waits until some others get there before coming inside. I am looking forward to seeing this little one come out of its shell as it grows.

Sage

Was one of the last to spring forth from its seed-shaped prison but raced its way to the surface pretty quick. It almost felt as if it was worried about missing out on something. Once it showed up, it did demand a solid amount of pomp and circumstance. It is one of the better-known herbs in the current class. It makes sure everyone knows how popular its kind is among the metaphysical supply shops. It will not stop talking about it. I am excited to see how that self-esteem carries it as it gets older.

Catnip

This was the second to surface from the great deep, and it brought nothing but smiles on its way. It came out dancing, and spinning with its hands in the air, like it was celebrating life itself. We had tried to grow Catnip in Gen-1, but it never broke free of its seed chamber, so this one really shows its appreciation of life and open space. I hope this one spreads its exuberance for life to the others, but not at the cost of its own well-being.

Mugwort

This was the first to rise from the seed of its elders. It grew full and prideful, as it carries with it a long historical line dating back to medieval Europe and earlier. Its line is among herb royalty, and it carries with it the deep knowledge passed down through generations. But though its wisdom is abundant, it does not carry an energy of self-importance. It is almost as if it is excited to have some friends. I am looking forward to watching its wisdom spread and its friendships grow.

Saint John’s Wort

Third one out, and the first looking to party down. It shot out with a fist pumping in the air, while the rest of the body was still trying to keep up. While very good natured, it does seem to act in recklessness. It seems to want to reach its destination without truly appreciating the journey. I am hoping to see this little one slow down a little and enjoy the times of real growth. We shall see.

Echinacea

This little one is still just a baby. It just started sprouting out two days ago when I first started seeing a little green, but it is still just peeking out a little bit. It is just taking its time, understanding this new world, and discovering its view on life. I am looking forward to getting to know this little one, and see its personality grow.

Lemon Balm

This little fella broke free in the middle of the pack. At this point, it is like the perfect middle child. When it first started coming out on its own, it was being overshadowed by the milestones of some of its older classmates, and the younger ones were very quick to follow, so this one only really had a half-day to shine on its own. But while it didn’t get a lot of fanfare, it took that time to really grow into itself. It grew full and made sure to really take the time to make the good decisions. I hope to see it add a little bit of a care-free attitude in some aspects of its life, but it may just have a very deliberate personality and that is ok too.

Make sure to following along if you are interested in the growth and development of our Herbs Gen 2: Bigger, Stronger, Herbier.