Gardening Q&A

May/June 2022 California Bountiful magazine

May 1, 2022 - As a California Bountiful reader, you have the opportunity to get your seasonal gardening questions answered by gardening expert Pat Rubin. Here are a few questions from our readers.

When is the best time to harvest my oregano and rosemary?

First, grow them with as little water as possible. This gives the leaves a stronger fragrance and flavor. Harvest them just before the plants bloom. The best time to pick the leaves is in the morning. You can strip the leaves from the stems and put them in a paper bag, or dry the entire stem of leaves. It's best to dry them in a cool, dark place. Once the leaves are dry, put them in an airtight container. Don't crush the leaves until you are ready to use them. They'll retain their flavor better this way. Label the jar with the type of herb and also the date.

 I didn't get my vegetable garden started last April. Is it too late?

Absolutely not. You might want to buy starter plants instead of planting from seed to get a quicker start, but it's really not too late to start things like cucumbers, squash, beans, carrots or beets from seed. Most melons and pumpkins need a long growing season, so buy starter plants from the nursery. It's also not too late to get another crop of radishes or salad greens.
Reprinted with permission: California Farm Bureau Federation