Medicinal Herbs Garden
All of the herbs cultivated in this garden are organic and of the highest quality.
The Garden
Located in southern Dakota County along Highway 3, the Medicinal Herbs Garden features over 100 varieties of cultivated herbs, catering to both professional herbalists and amateur enthusiasts. Since it is situated on an active organic farm, it is essential to schedule your visit in advance with garden manager Maura McCabe at 507-581-4185 or mccabem013@gmail to collect medicinal herbs.
This is not a for-profit venture. But neither is it a for-loss venture. If you're interested in obtaining medicinal herbs, please consider making a voluntary donation to help cover the costs of seeds and supplies, taking into account the quality and quantity of the herbs you wish to gather.
The Plants
Throughout history, countless plants have served as medicine. Five fundamental herbs—calendula, chamomile, yarrow, lemon balm, and mint—are safe and effective for most individuals when used as simple teas, tinctures, or salves. In my personal selection of essential herbs, I would also add tulsi, anise hyssop, skullcap, sage, spilanthes, boneset, Solomon’s seal, and goldenrod. Be sure to explore this year's garden inventory!
Harvesting
Understanding the optimal time and method for harvesting medicinal plants is essential—and it's simpler than you might expect. Herbs should be collected when they are at their peak vitality and phytochemical content. While many leafy plants can be harvested throughout the growing season, they are particularly vibrant in spring and early summer when they are still young and fresh. Flowers should be picked just as they begin to bloom, with half open and half still in bud. Autumn is the ideal season for harvesting roots, as the aerial parts die back and the plant directs its energy into the roots for winter storage. The list of what is ready for gathering will be updated regularly throughout the seasons.
