Welcome to Hill Country Herbalist

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Herbal Retreat: Maypop Farms




Maypop Farms is lovingly named after the enticing passion flower (pictured here growing at the farm). The Wildflower School of Botanical Medicine, led by Nicole Telkes, took a field trip to this amazing land in Montgomery, Texas. The Farm is cared for by an herbalist named Larry (pictured here teaching us how to make delicious peach wine). I took so many pictures and cannot describe how important this trip is for a budding herbalist. Where else can you see stands of red clover growing freely, along with bee balm, passion flower, elderberry, heirloom garlic, wild oats, millet, wheat, and a myriad other edible plants and herbs?

Many "herb nerds" as Nicole dubs us slept in tents, in open air platforms, or in their vehicles (like yours truly). With screened in back windows, a fan, and my comfy bedding from home - I soon created a "home away from home" in the suburban. Waking up at the crack of dawn, stepping outside and washing up on the tailgate, prepping my breakfast, lunch and dinner in the "kitchen quadrant" of the 'burban, was so invigorating! I just loved this experience. Most of all, I loved connecting with the plants and other herbalists who understand and respect the plants.

I took so many pictures, I'll have to work them in as I feature them individually in other postings. I simply cannot wait until I have the energy to post them and discuss them. As I type, I have bee balm spread out on paper ready to be dehydrated (pictured above). I'm going to infuse this bee balm in oil to make a very special lotion. (sigh) now to unpack all my bags! ciao!

No comments: