Foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains: tomato propagation

Monday, August 11, 2014

Passionflower For A Good Night's Sleep

Have you tried passionflower tea for relieving stress? Studies have shown that a tea made from the leaves of the passionflower vine (passiflora) promotes relaxation for a good night's rest. Studies have also shown that using passionflower as a supplement improved symptoms of menopause such as sleeplessness, depression, anger and headache. It's a nervine so do not take it if you're already taking a prescription sleep aid. Also, pregnant or nursing mothers should not use it. There are a number of different species, but the lavender one below is the correct one to use, not the blue variety. The vines have tendrils and will climb if there are other plants around to give it support. If not, they grow along the ground.

The leaves have three lobes and are the part you want to pick for the tea. I use a teaspoon of dried, crushed leaves per cup of water. Use two teaspoons per cup if using fresh leaves. Bring the water to a boil then pour over and steep the leaves for 15-20 minutes. I think the tea is more palatable when cooled slightly with a spoon of honey stirred in. Goodman and I have both tried the tea recently, and it has helped us relax and sleep through the night.

The fruit is an edible antioxidant. I well remember eating them as a child. Pick them as the color begins to lighten and let them ripen to a yellowish color. As always with any wild plant be sure you have identified it correctly and consult your physician with any concerns you may have.

In the garden: Here's a little trick for producing tomato plants very quickly. Take cuttings from the plants you already have and root them in water for a week or two.

You'll be surprised how fast the roots grow.

After rooting in water place the cutting in soil in a small pot for another two weeks.

By this time the roots are well developed and ready to plant in the garden. This is a great, inexpensive way to keep harvesting tomatoes until frost. Also, mix a tablespoon of epsom salt into the soil at the roots to help the plants develop a healthy structure and guard against blossom-end rot.