Greetings from Honey Rock!

"Let all thy joys be as the month of May."
Francis Quarles

I don’t know about your place, but here at Honey Rock everything is growing like a weed, especially the weeds. Speaking of weeds I’d like to warn you about an herb that is the Bain of my existence, along with Bermuda grass and privet, I could go on. This invasive plant is Houttuynia or Chameleon plant. The friend who shared it with me tried to warn me, but I didn’t listen. Now it has devoured our Cottage Garden. If someone tries to give or sell you this stinky plant don’t walk, run away! You’re welcome. A plant we do love is lovage. This tall perennial herb is called “perennial celery,” because it is a perennial and it tastes like celery. It’s great in salads and soups or anytime you want the fresh flavor of celery. The older stems become hollow and too tough to eat, but I’ve been told they make great straws for Bloody Mary’s or tomato juice. Enjoy this healthy, low fat dip with raw vegetables or as a sauce for grilled fish, chicken or steamed veggies. I put some on a provolone cheese sandwich instead of mayo…yum!


Pepper Dip with Parsley and Lovage
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup finely diced onion
2 cups (about 3 medium-size) cored, seeded and chopped red bell peppers
1 small fresh red jalapeno or other hot pepper, cored seeded, and minced
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley leaves
1 tablespoon minced fresh lovage leaves
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup vegetable stock or dry white wine

In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, uncovered, until the liquid has evaporated and the peppers are very soft, about 20 minutes.  Using a food processor or blender, process the mixture until smooth. Chill before serving.

We can’t wait until this Saturday morning and the first Maryville Farmers Market! Selling starts a 9 am, but come early to check out what’s available. Bella and I will come back to Honey Rock to open at 10 am, but Jim will be there on Founders Square until closing.

Just up the road on Broadway, St. Andrews Episcopal Church will have their annual Garden Day. It starts a 9 am.

Of course we will be open at Honey Rock Tuesday thru Saturday, 10 to 5. Remember plants, especially herbs, make wonderful Mother’s Day Gifts. Think; lavender for devotion, and rosemary means love and remembrance. Give a gift that keeps on giving.

Our friend Marty T. wanted us to mention Rabbit Run Retreat, near Norris. They have accommodations for reunions, retreats, etc. Call Judy or Jim Valentine at 865-230-9868 or www.rabbitrunretreat.com

In closing I’d like to remember a sweet friend and herb mentor Penny Melton of Penny’s Garden in Mountain City, Georgia. Penny passed away last week. Our sympathy goes out to her husband Don and everyone else who loved and will miss Penny.

Peace and Plenty
D. & Jim