Choosing Your Flowers

The first step to making flower tea is choosing the right flowers. Some popular choices include chamomile, hibiscus, jasmine, rose, and lavender, each offering unique flavor profiles and health benefits. For instance, chamomile is known for its calming properties while hibiscus contributes to lower blood pressure. Ensure the flowers you use are edible and haven’t been treated with pesticides.

Moreover, consider the source of your flowers. They can be freshly picked, dried, or bought from a store. If you’re picking fresh flowers, do so early in the morning when their aroma and flavors are most potent.

Preparing the Flowers

Once you’ve chosen your flowers, it’s time for preparation. Fresh flowers should be washed gently under cold water to remove any dirt or bugs. If you’re using dried flowers, a quick rinse will suffice.

Next, separate the petals from the rest of the flower, as stems and leaves may impart a bitter taste. If you’re using store-bought flowers, ensure they are specifically meant for culinary use.

Brewing the Tea

Brewing flower tea is a simple yet delicate process. Bring water to a boil and then allow it to cool slightly. The optimal temperature varies between 80-90°C (176-194°F) to prevent the delicate petals from burning.

Place about one teaspoon of flower petals (or one flower bud for blooming teas) in a teapot. Pour the hot water over the flowers, then let the tea steep. The steeping time varies, but generally, 3-5 minutes is recommended for a lighter flavor, while 5-10 minutes results in a stronger infusion.

Savoring Your Floral Tea

Savoring floral tea is as much about the experience as it is about the taste. As you pour your tea into a clear glass or cup, admire the beautiful hues ranging from pale yellow to deep red, depending on the flowers used. The tea should be aromatic, releasing the delicate, characteristic fragrance of the flower.

Taste the tea before adding any sweeteners, as floral teas often have a natural sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter drink, a small spoonful of honey works well.

Health Benefits

Flower teas are not only a sensory delight but also a boon to health. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Depending on the flowers used, they can have calming, detoxifying, or immune-boosting effects.

For instance, chamomile tea is known for its soothing properties, aiding sleep and digestion. Hibiscus tea is rich in vitamin C and can help lower blood pressure. Jasmine tea may help reduce stress and improve heart health.

In conclusion, making tea with flowers is a tranquil and rewarding experience, steeped in tradition and elegance. It is about appreciating nature’s bounty and slowing down to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. By selecting high-quality flowers, preparing them with care, and brewing with attention to detail, you can create a beautiful, healthful beverage that nurtures both body and soul.

Serving and Storing Flower Tea

Flower teas are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for a few days. Chilled flower tea can make a refreshing iced tea for hot summer days. Just remember to store your tea in a well-sealed container to maintain its aroma and taste.

If you’ve prepared dried flower tea in bulk, it should be stored in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. This way, it can last for up to a year. Remember, though, that over time, the tea may gradually lose its flavor and potency.

In terms of serving, flower teas can make a beautiful centerpiece for a gathering or a thoughtful gift when packaged attractively. Paired with a note about the tea’s origin, flavor profile, and brewing instructions, it makes a personal and unique gift.

Beyond the Traditional Brew

While we’ve primarily talked about brewing flower teas hot, the same flowers can often be used to create wonderfully refreshing iced teas, perfect for warmer days. Consider adding a touch of lemon juice or a few fresh mint leaves before chilling for an extra zing.

You can also use flower tea as a base for other beverages. For example, hibiscus or rose tea can make an exciting addition to cocktails, or chamomile tea can be used in a soothing night-time milk infusion.

In essence, the art of making tea with flowers is a practice of mindfulness. From the careful selection of flowers to the patient steeping, each step offers a moment of peace and reflection. As you sip your floral brew, you’re participating in a tradition that’s as old as history and as broad as the world. So, take a moment to savor the experience. After all, isn’t enjoying the beauty and subtlety of life’s simple pleasures what tea time is all about?

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1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Pothos is known for its cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves. It’s extremely easy to care for, thriving even in low-light conditions, and is effective in purifying indoor air.

2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Snake plants are beloved for their robust nature. These plants can survive in low light and require infrequent watering. They are also known to filter indoor air pollutants.

3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): ZZ plants are popular for their glossy, green leaves and minimal care requirements. They can survive in low light and tolerate neglect.

4. Monstera Deliciosa: Often referred to as the ‘Swiss cheese plant’ due to its unique leaf structure, Monsteras are a popular choice for their tropical aesthetic. They prefer indirect light and a humid environment.

5. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata): Fiddle leaf figs are loved for their large, distinctive foliage. They require bright, indirect light and prefer their soil to dry out between watering.

6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): Peace lilies are beautiful indoor plants with dark green leaves and stunning white flowers. They prefer low to medium light and are known for their air-purifying qualities.

7. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Spider plants are resilient and easy to care for, thriving in a variety of environments. They’re excellent air purifiers and produce plantlets that can be easily propagated.

8. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica): With their shiny, dark green leaves, rubber plants add a touch of elegance to any space. They prefer bright, indirect light and need their soil to dry out between waterings.

9. Succulents: Succulents, including types like Echeveria and Aloe Vera, are loved for their low-maintenance nature. They require a sunny spot and infrequent watering, making them perfect for busy plant owners.

10. English Ivy (Hedera helix): English ivy, with its delicate trailing vines, is popular both as a houseplant and as an outdoor climber. Indoors, it enjoys a well-lit spot away from direct sunlight.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned indoor gardener, there’s a plant on this list for everyone. Choose according to your taste and the conditions your home can provide, and enjoy the benefits these popular houseplants bring.

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When it comes to fast-growing vegetables, there are many options to choose from. Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and arugula can be ready to harvest in as little as 20-30 days after planting. Radishes are another fast-growing option, with some varieties ready to harvest in just 3-4 weeks. Other fast-growing vegetables include beets, carrots, and herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley.

Potted Vegetables

Growing vegetables in pots is a great option for those who have smaller spaces or want the flexibility to move their plants around. Many fast-growing vegetables can be grown successfully in pots, including lettuce, spinach, and radishes mentioned previously.

While growing vegetables in pots, it’s important to choose a pot that is large enough for the plant’s roots and to ensure that proper potting mix is used so water drains well. Regular watering and fertilization can help ensure that your potted vegetables grow quickly and healthily.

Microgreens

For those who want to enjoy a quick harvest without the hassle of pots, microgreen growing trays are a great option. Microgreens are young, tender greens that are harvested when they are just a few inches tall. They are packed with nutrients and can be used in salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. Many vegetables can be grown as microgreens, including lettuce, kale, and radishes. Microgreens can be grown in trays using a special growing medium and are typically ready to harvest in just 1-2 weeks.

Choosing the Right Seeds

When it comes to choosing vegetable seeds that grow fast, look for varieties that have a short time to maturity indicated on the seed packet. By choosing seeds with a shorter time to maturity, you can enjoy a quick harvest without sacrificing quality or flavor.

We have outlined a few great options, but there are many fast-growing vegetables that are perfect for impatient gardeners. Whether you’re growing your vegetables in pots or microgreen trays, or simply looking for quick-maturing seed varieties, there are plenty of choices. By following these tips and techniques, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest in no time.

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Marigolds, also known as pot marigolds, symbolize the Virgin Mary’s love and have long been associated with Dia de los Muertos festivities. With their vibrant gold color, they are a perfect representation for October birthdays, being an emblematic flower for October. Moreover, their ability to repel pests makes them a practical and attractive addition to any garden.

Cosmos flowers, both pink and white cosmos, are equally enticing, adding delicate beauty and charm. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, they carry significant meanings, often associated with peace and love, making them popular choices for wedding anniversaries. Growing cosmos is an effortless task, further enhancing their appeal to both novice and seasoned gardeners.

So, as you embark on your spring gardening journey, consider the addition of marigolds and cosmos, a duo that combines visual appeal, ease of growth, and depth of symbolism.

Marigolds

Marigolds come in shades of yellow, orange, and red, symbolizing positivity, joy, and happiness. They have rich symbolism within different cultures, associated with love, passion, creativity, and remembrance. In Mexican culture, marigold flowers are used during the Day of the Dead celebrations as a symbol of remembrance and honor for loved ones who have passed away.

Pink marigold flowers add a soft and romantic touch to gardens, symbolizing grace, elegance, and femininity. Dried marigold flowers can be used in aromatherapy, skincare products, teas, and infusions for their calming and soothing properties.

Cosmos

Cosmos flowers come in a wide range of colors, including orange, white, purple, and pink with yellow centers. Orange cosmos flowers are particularly striking and symbolize enthusiasm, energy, and excitement, while white ones symbolize purity, innocence, and tranquility. Purple cosmos flowers are associated with creativity, inspiration, and imagination. The cosmos October birth flower represents love, peace, and harmony, making it a perfect choice for those born in October.

Both marigold and cosmos flowers are great for creating a unique and personalized outdoor space. They add a splash of color, beauty, and personal touch to gardens, making them welcoming, cheerful, and serene. Whether you prefer the vibrant hues of marigolds or the delicate blooms of cosmos flowers, these plants offer a wide range of options for gardeners to choose from.

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Growing Radish Sprouts

Growing radish sprouts at home is a simple and rewarding way to add a fresh, nutritious ingredient to your meals. The best part is that you can grow these microgreens indoors, regardless of the time of year or outdoor climate. 

Here are some steps to follow to grow your own radish sprouts at home:

Start with a container that allows for good drainage, such as a mason jar with a mesh lid or a plastic sprouting tray. Next, add a layer of radish seeds to the container and rinse the seeds with clean water before draining the excess water. Then, add fresh water to the container and let the seeds soak overnight.

The next day, drain the water and rinse the seeds with clean water again. Repeat this process every day, at least twice a day, for the next few days until the sprouts begin to grow. Keep the container in a warm, dark place such as a pantry or cupboard. Once the sprouts reach the desired length, usually 2-3 inches, rinse them once more and let them dry. You can store your new radish sprouts in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. 

Radish Sprouts In Cooking

If you’ve never tried radish sprouts before, you might be wondering, “What do radishes taste like?” One of the easiest ways to find out is to use them as a fresh garnish for salads, soups, or roasted veggies. The peppery flavor of the sprouts complements the flavours in these dishes and adds a crunchy texture. Another way to enjoy them is to toss them in with other greens like spinach or kale to elevate the flavor profile of your salad.

When it comes to the best vegetables for smoothies, don’t overlook radish sprouts. They’re a great addition to any smoothie, blending well with your favorite fruits and veggies to create a nutrient-dense drink that’ll keep you full and energized. And if you’re not in the mood for a smoothie, you can still enjoy radish sprouts as a topping for avocado toast or scrambled eggs, adding an extra zing to your breakfast.

The versatility of radish sprouts doesn’t end there. You can also make a fresh and healthy pesto by blending them with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This pesto can be used as a spread on sandwiches, as a sauce for pasta or pizza, or as a dip for veggies.

Radish sprouts are a great way to add a pop of flavor and nutrition to your meals. These microgreens are easy to incorporate into your diet and can help boost your wellness. Next time you’re looking for a fresh and healthy garnish or ingredient, give radish sprouts a try and enjoy all the health benefits they offer.

Next up: Learn how to grow spring onions and use them with your radish sprouts in your next recipe!

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You may have heard of microgreens, which are tiny but mighty plants with a nutritional punch, but you are still wondering how to grow microgreens. One of the easiest ways to grow microgreens is in a jar, which is not only easy but also aesthetically pleasing. They are an excellent addition to any diet and can be grown indoors with ease, making them a convenient option for anyone looking to add some greenery to their home.

How to Grow Microgreens

To start, you will need a clean jar, such as a Mason jar, with a lid that has holes in it, potting soil, and microgreen seeds. You can purchase microgreen seeds from our website and get started today. Some popular options include radish, broccoli, alfalfa, and wheatgrass. To prepare your jar, start by cleaning it thoroughly with soap and warm water. Rinse the jar well and allow it to dry completely. Once the jar is clean and dry, fill it with potting soil, leaving about 4 inches of space at the top. Next, sprinkle a dense layer of microgreen seeds on top of the soil,  but not so many that the seeds are touching each other. Gently press the seeds into the soil, to ensure contact with the soil but are not buried too deep. Once the seeds are in place, cover the jar with a lid that has holes in it to allow for air circulation, which is crucial to the growth of your microgreens. If you do not have a lid with holes, you can create your own by using a hammer and nail to create holes in the lid.  Place your jar in a warm, bright location, such as a windowsill. Make sure the jar is receiving enough light, as this will help your microgreens grow. You may need to rotate the jar occasionally to ensure all sides receive equal amounts of light. In a few days to a week depending on your chosen seeds, you should start to see your microgreens sprouting. Once they have sprouted, remove the lid and place the jar in a location that receives ample light. Continue to water your microgreens regularly, but be careful not to overwater them, as this can cause mold to grow.

How to Harvest Microgreens

After two to three weeks, your microgreens should be ready to harvest and you can do so by gently pulling them out of the soil, or by cutting them with a pair of scissors. Rinse the microgreens under cold water, pat them dry, and enjoy them in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish on your favorite dishes. By following these simple steps, you can have a steady supply of fresh microgreens throughout the year.  Check out our article on how to store your microgreens properly or for innovative drinks, see what is being served at fablemelbourne.com.au.

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It’s important to note that green lemons are simply unripe lemons that haven’t fully matured yet, but if left on the tree, they would ripen to their distinctive yellow colour. They have a bright green skin and a firm texture which can make them difficult to juice. However, they can be sliced or grated and used as a zesty garnish or added to salads for a tangy kick. Green lemons are also a great source of vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system and improve your overall health.

How to Cook with Green Lemons

One of the best ways to use green lemons is in a fresh salad. The sour flavor of the green lemon pairs perfectly with sweet fruits and crunchy vegetables. Try mixing sliced green lemons with microgreens, chopped cucumber, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper for a delicious and refreshing salad that’s perfect for warm weather.

Another way to use green lemons is in marinades for meat or fish. The sour lemon juice can help tenderize the protein and add a tangy flavor to the dish.

Try marinating chicken or fish in a mixture of green lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a flavorful and healthy meal.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making a green lemon sorbet. Simply juice the green lemons and combine the juice with sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer until the sugar has dissolved. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for several hours, stirring occasionally to prevent ice crystals from forming. Serve the sorbet with a sprig of fresh mint for a refreshing and tart dessert.

Green lemons are a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can add a tangy twist to your dishes. Whether you’re making a fresh salad, marinating meat or fish, or whipping up a sorbet, green lemons can provide a delicious and healthy addition to your meals. So next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t overlook these bright green fruits and give them a try to see how they can elevate your cooking.

Looking for a nice dessert to compliment your meal? Perhaps add some baklava.

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The first step in your journey is the soaking of seeds, followed by their introduction to the right growing medium. Once sown, your microgreens are typically ready to harvest within a week or two. Offering a mix of these greens, like a salad mix, can be an attractive option for customers at local farmers markets or grocery stores.

Pea microgreens are a standout, known for their sweet flavor and crunchy texture. Mustard microgreens, on the other hand, offer a spicy kick. Kale microgreens are cherished for their health benefits and unique flavor, while sunflower microgreens add a nutty flavor that many find irresistible.

In summary, with the right approach, selling microgreens can be a profitable venture. The key lies in understanding your market, choosing the right mix of microgreens, and effectively communicating their health benefits and culinary appeal to your customers.

Pea Shoots

Pea shoots are one of the most popular microgreens and for good reason. These sweet, crunchy shoots are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber. They are also easy to grow, making them a great choice for novice growers. Pea shoots are versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to smoothies and stir-fries.

Sunflower Sprouts

Sunflower sprouts are another popular microgreen that is easy to grow and sell at farmer’s markets. These crunchy, slightly nutty sprouts are high in protein and packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B6, C, and E, as well as folate, magnesium, and zinc. They are also a good source of healthy fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Sunflower sprouts are perfect for adding crunch and flavor to salads, sandwiches, and wraps.

Radish Microgreens

Radish microgreens are another great option for farmer’s market sellers. These spicy greens are high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, as well as folate and potassium. They are also easy to grow and can be harvested in as little as 7-10 days. Radish microgreens are perfect for adding a spicy kick to salads, sandwiches, and tacos.

Arugula Microgreens

Arugula microgreens are another spicy option that is becoming increasingly popular at farmer’s markets. These peppery greens are high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, as well as calcium and potassium. They are also easy to grow and can be harvested in just a few weeks. Arugula microgreens are perfect for adding flavor and nutrition to salads, pizzas, and pasta.

Beet Microgreens

Beet microgreens are another colorful and nutrient-dense option that is perfect for farmer’s market sellers. These bright red greens are high in iron, magnesium, and other minerals, as well as vitamins A, C, and K. They are also easy to grow and can be harvested in just a few weeks. Beet microgreens are perfect for adding color and nutrition to salads, smoothies, and sandwiches.

Broccoli Microgreens

Broccoli microgreens are another popular option that is high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. They are also high in sulforaphane, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. Broccoli microgreens are perfect for adding a nutritional boost to salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries.

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is another popular microgreen that is perfect for farmer’s market sellers. This nutrient-dense green is high in chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as iron, magnesium, and calcium. Wheatgrass is often juiced and consumed as a health tonic, but it can also be added to smoothies, salads, and other dishes.

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