The history of gardening with herbs dates back to ancient times, covering all ages, in all countries. In America, the uses and knowledge of herbs grew with each race of peoples that came to the New World. Our forefathers and mothers brought seeds and cuttings from their homelands and the Native Americans passed on their extensive wisdom in indigenous species. Though for many decades the understanding of herbs had become obscure, today they are enjoying a great resurgence of interest. Here at Stratford some of the herbs are used in our Dining Room for garnish and flavor while others are used in our interpretive programs and arrangements to grace special occasions.
Herbs are easy to grow as compared to other plants.
They are relatively pest-free and, with a good start, grow without much attention. The art of the language of flowers became highly specialized during the Victorian period. You will find in our list of herbs many of the meanings for each.