I love plants. They’re one of my obsessions. I learned to grow herbs from a young age. Take rosemary. It’s easy to grow, requiring just a little love once it’s established. It’s gorgeous and brings a brilliant scent into your home. Plus, I’ve got a bit of a cold, and there’s nothing like rosemary tea and steam to help soothe my nose and throat.

I grew up learning Appalachian uses for plants, and rosemary has a long and storied history. People used to braid in their hair to boost their memory skills. Others rubbed it on their skin to repel insects. Some claim it aids with hair growth, and you’ll find it plenty of shampoos and conditioners. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s lovely in salves for pain relief. And the scent…I know, I’m repeating myself, but the scent is divine, and the herb works brilliantly in dishes from potatoes to sweets to grilled meat.

A Mediterranean herb, rosemary needs a good 6-8 hours of sunshine a day. It likes well-drained soil and doesn’t need much watering. In fact, letting the soil dry to the touch between watering sessions works for the best unless it’s a hot, dry spell. It’s safe around your pets in small amounts, but no essential oil versions please.