How to Grow Anise from Seed and Why You Should Grow It©
How to Grow Anise
from Seed and Why You Should Grow It©
by Arlene Wright-Correll
Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is an annual that can grow up to 2
feet tall. This herb, which can be used for medicinal and culinary purposes,
with its clusters of white flowers, can add ornamental value to a garden as
well. Anise seeds can be used to flavor soups, cakes, candies and curries.
Native to Egypt
and the Mediterranean region, anise can be grown in California
and areas of the United States
within USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 9. Growing anise from seed is best
done in permanent containers or directly in the garden, because the herb
doesn't transplant well.
1. Select a pot with drainage holes and fill it with moist,
sterile potting mix, up to about 3/4 inch from the top. Press down on the soil
with your hand to level the surface.
2. Sprinkle six to eight anise seeds over the soil surface,
at an equal distance from each other. Cover the seeds with a 1/4-inch layer of
soil. Lightly tamp the soil with your hand to firm it over the anise seeds.
3. Water the soil with a spray bottle to avoid disturbing
the shallowly planted seeds. Stretch plastic wrap over the pot to help the soil
retain moisture. Cover the plastic wrap with sheets of newspaper to maintain a
constant soil temperature. Keep the soil moist -- not soggy -- during the
germination period.
4. Position the pot in a warm room. Aim for a temperature of
about 60 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect the seeds to germinate within two
weeks.
5. Remove the plastic wrap and newspaper as soon as the
seeds germinate. Expose the seedlings to sunlight and a temperature of about 55
degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Remove weak, small seedlings as soon as they're large
enough to handle. Keep no more than one or two strong seedlings in the pot, and
water them regularly to keep the soil damp as they grow. You can move the pots
outside into a sunny location when all danger of frost has passed.
Things You Will Need
Potting mix
Pot
Spray bottle
Plastic wrap
Newspaper
Tip
Sow seeds outdoors in a sunny location, after the last frost
date in your area. Plant them in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.3 and
7.3. Sow the seeds in rows that are 2 feet apart, at a depth of about 1/4 inch.
Thin them to 8 inches apart.
Harvest anise seeds about one month after the plant flowers.
Harvest the leaves as needed, while the plant matures.
Anise can be used as a tea or syrup to aid in the relief
from cough and congestion. Try a simple tea made from crushed seeds after a
large meal - you will be surprised at how effective it can be.
Known Medicinal Properties: Anise has a long history of medicinal use. It is still used all over the
world as a digestive-aid and anti-flatulence agent. Anise has also been used
for centuries relieve coughs and colds. In fact, scientists have even proven that
the essential oils in the Anise seeds DO have expectorant properties.
Anise is a digestive-aid, anti-flatulence agent and fights
coughs and colds.
May the Creative Force be with you,
Arlene Wright-Correll
Labels: anise seeds, Arlene Wright-Correll, free gift, free shipping, Heirloom seeds, Home Farm Herbery, homesteading, order now
posted by askarlene @ 7:33 AM
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