GIFTS FROM THE GARDEN
Janice Tucker

Gardeners are generous. We love to share our garden bounty with friends and neighbors – a bouquet of roses, a basket of tomatoes, a pot of basil. Home-made gifts from the garden reflect thoughtfulness and caring that no store-bought item can equal. Here are two ideas for garden gifts to share with others.

Lavender bouquets are simple, elegant and easy to make. When pruning back your lavender, gather the blooms into a large bunch and bind in the middle. Cut the stem ends so they are even and can sit flat. Finish the bundle with a raffia tie and bow. Glue a dried rose bud in the center of the bow. (Hint - in Santa Fe, the climate is so dry that a freshly picked rosebud glued in the center of the bow will dry naturally.)

Herb vinegars can be packaged in pretty bottles and make marvelous gifts, especially for cooks.
A good basic recipe for one quart of herb vinegar:

2 small white onions peeled

4 cloves

1 small bunch each of parsley and mint (enough to make 2 cups)

1 small head of fennel (optional)

1 teaspoon peppercorns

1/8 teaspoon coarse salt

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon best brandy

1 quart good quality white vinegar

A few sprigs of any combination of the following: fennel w/flowers, tarragon, dill with flowers, lemon thyme, chive blossoms, rosemary, green or purple basil.

Stud onions with cloves. Place onions, mint, parsley, fennel head, peppercorns, salt, sugar and brandy in a ceramic or stainless steel bowl. Bring vinegar to boil and then pour over the mixture in the bowl. Cover loosely and let stand for 2 weeks. Strain the flavored vinegar through a colander lined with cheesecloth. Using a funnel, pour the vinegar into a sterilized bottle. Add a few sprigs of the herb or herbs of your choice. Seal with cork or lid.

Enjoy your garden. Take joy in sharing it with others.