Master Gardener: Plan an immunity garden for 2022 - Fremont News Messenger

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The cold and flu season are here. Many herb lovers planted their immunity-boosting garden last spring and now have a full stock of medical plants on hand to get them through the winter season. You can plan for the next growing season

Hippocrates said, “Let food by thy medicine.” Today this is all too true. A diet of foods rich in vitamins and minerals will help support a strong immune system. The health experts recommend eating a wide variety of plant-based foods in a rainbow of colors for optimal health. Here is a list of staples that are particularly potent and beneficial to supporting good immune health — herbs being on the list.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) — a beneficial anti-inflammatory and antioxidant in many cultures and is backed by rigorous scientific research. It contains copper, magnesium, manganese, and potassium for antimicrobial properties. It is reported that Confucius ate some at every meal. It loves to grow in pots and containers in humid subtropical conditions, but it also grows well in the north if protected. Plants require 8-10 months of frost-free weather to reach maturity. Water regularly during summer. Fertilizing is optional but organic fertilize once a month if you choose. Harvest when leaves turn yellow. Uproot the entire plant, store in a paper bag at room temperature, or freeze for up to six months. Use in stir fry or drink as a tea. Combine slices of ginger in a saucepan with water to a boil, then add honey.

Dandelion (Taraxacum) —...



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