Summer Garden~ Pineapple Sage


One of my summer garden favorites- Salvia elegans, Pineapple Sage

A tender perennial in my area, it seldom survives the heat of August; but just maybe this year it will persevere.  Thus far it is lush and lovely, though no longer blooming.  The red blossoms are loved by hummingbirds as well as humans, and make a sweet addition to a summer fruit salad.  I like to add a few leaves and flowers to a pitcher of herbal sun tea.  Pineapple Sage also makes a sweet smelling addition to a floral arrangement (in my case, a few flowers and herbs tucked into a Mason jar).
For other delicious uses for Pineapple Sage, check out this post at The Essential Herbal Blog (my favorite herb magazine)!

What herbs are thriving in your summer garden?  



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Cool Drinks for Hot Days

Sunny summer days call for refreshing drinks.  Herbs make fabulous teas and flavored waters.  One of the simplest is also a favorite here in the Love household.  A few sprigs of lemon balm, ginger mint, and spearmint in a pitcher of water.  I set it on the windowsill in the morning and by lunch time it is ready to drink.  We sometimes add a slice of lemon or lime to make it extra tasty.

Please share your favorite herbal drinks for summer!
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Summer's Perfect Pair



fresh basil

red ripe tomatoes


Juicy, warm from the sun, tomatoes
fresh picked basil
organic extra virgin olive oil
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper


slice or halve tomatoes depending on size and variety
chop basil and sprinkle over tomatoes 
drizzle with olive oil
season with sea salt and pepper to taste


Enjoy!


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Blooming

The rains have been glorious, and the flower gardens are blooming their thanks.

 Rock Rose

 Moses in a Basket (Purple Heart Wandering Jew, I think) 

Crape Myrtle

What's blooming in your garden these days?

Blessings,
Catherine


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Simple Joys

herbs in a mason jar on the windowsill ... simple. beautiful. perfect.

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