Modern and Medieval Herb Gardening Info and History

For many centuries, the practice of growing and harvesting herbs has been done by many cultures. During the medieval times of Europe however, this practice was brought to a high art. This culture and time period was unaware of the medical and technological advances that were being made throughout the world. During the middle ages, herbs were depended upon heavily as a means for medicne. Although their practice was both knowledge and nonsense, these people did know many valid practices.

Medieval herb gardens were used for many things including, medicinal purposes, flavorful seasonings and even a place for solitary contemplation. These gardens were so breathtaking, that in 1930, an exact model of what one of these gardens would have looked like was built in New York’s Cloisters.

There are over 250 different species of herbs grown in the Cloisters and the herb garden is the most prominent attraction, being featured in the Bomefront Cloister. Amongst their beauty, these herbs have been able to thrive quite well, surviving the bitter chill of New York’s winters as well as their hot and muggy summers and the unpredictable rainy seasons of fall and spring.

The Cloister was based on several resources and does not replicate one specific garden. However, it does hold the essential earmarks of what a historical herb garden would have including raised beds, wattle fences and a central wellhead. The garden is surrounded by orchards and many other varieties of plants.

Several of the herbs have been placed in containers that much resemble what a container of that period would like. These delicate plants are allowed to be brought inside when the cruel wrath of New York’s winter takes hold and brings along its friend snow.

During the middle Ages, these wondrous marvels of nature were sometimes used to ward off evil spirits. However, if they are not being used for culinary or medicinal purposes, these herbs now provide an aromatic and beautiful oasis away from the chaotic turmoil of today’s life and times.

All of these precious herbs are grouped into nine separate sections in the Cloisters in keeping with the way it would have been during this time period. The first section contains Absinthe and Thistles while the second contains those which were used for medicinal purposes such as St. Jon’s Wort and Licorice. The third section contains those herbs which are aromatic, including Lavender and Lemon Balm.

Additional sections contain herbs which were used for art and some that by today’s standards would be held quite questionable such as Meadow Rue for encouraging love and marriage or magic herbs such as Herb Robert. The final section of this wondrous medieval garden is the section which contains the herbs used specifically for the culinary arts including, Carraway and Fennel.

During your next travels to America’s number one city, The Big Apple, take a tour uptown and visit these magnificent gardens. The herbalists will be more than happy to regale each visitor with their uncanny knowledge of all things herb.

         

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