Greet Spring with scented plants!

Sometimes rainy, gray, cloudy days at this time of year can make us feel as though Spring will never arrive. But it is actually just around the corner. Now is the time to get ready for spring. March 12 is Plant a Flower Day, so why not make it an aromatic plant, as well as one which is beautiful to the eye? And if you are really adventurous, add refreshing taste to the requirements for your new plant.

Dill was first mentioned in an Egyptian list of herbs that is over five thousand years old. It is native to the Mediterranean and the coastlines of Europe, but is widely cultivated around the world. Its uses range from medicinal to culinary. And in the past it was used as a powerful charm against witchcraft and evil.

Early this month get Spring off to a good start by planting dill seeds. They like to be sown in slightly moist but drained soil. If you broadcast your seeds, remember to thin them to about nine inches apart after they get a good start. Water your dill plants well in warm weather.

You will enjoy seeing the lacey, delicate heads of the dill blowing in the Spring breezes. The leaves and the seeds have a savory, pungent scent that is refreshing, clean, and appealing. Dill seeds add delicious zest to numerous recipes from many different cultures.

When you stroll through your garden this Spring and Summer, brush the dill plant or crush a small portion of leaf in your hand. Notice the feathery appeal of the flower head, compare the green of the dill to the surrounding grass and plants. Close your eyes and inhale the clean scent of the plant.

When you have indulged your senses of sight and smell, harvest some of the (organically grown) dill sprigs and seeds for use in the kitchen. Garnish salmon with dill sprigs before baking. Add a touch of dill seed to homemade bread recipes. Blend crushed dill into cottage cheese and cream sauces. Add a dash of dill seeds in a mushroom and asparagus soup .... what an unexpected combination of Spring flavors. And who hasn't savored the crunch of a delicious dill pickle when picnicking in the Summer.

In the practice of aromatherapy, dill is used for indigestion, dyspepsia, colic, and relief of flatulence. Emotionally, dill is useful for encouraging tenderness, as it is soothing and calming, and works to create harmony. 

This Spring plant something that is useful, decorative, delicious, and soothing. Try fennel, marjoram, basil or rosemary for additional treats for your senses. Try to involve as many of the senses as possible in the selection of plants for your enjoyment. Select a plant that has an unusual texture, an invigorating taste, a scintillating aroma, a vivid color, and a satisfying crunch. Give yourself time to enjoy the treasures these plants offer your senses ..... and on March 20th open your arms and say, "Welcome, Spring!"