Ashitaba, Mystical Reiso of Japan

Ashitaba Plant

Ashitaba (Angelica keiskei koidzumi), Mystical Reiso* of Japan *Reiso, “A mysterious or mystical herb or plant.” Ethno botanical: According to ancient documents, the gene-center of Ashitaba is Hachijojima, an island in the Izu archipelago, a moist subtropical region located southerly to Japan. This island is well-known as the “Island of Longevity.”  Historically, inhabitants consumed an austere diet composed…

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Advanced Seed Planting Tips

Know your seed.  Examine the seed before planting.  Large seeds, especially those from the Legume (Fabaceae) family, have impermeable seed-coats that may require scarification (nicking or rubbing) before planting.  Smaller seeds in the Lamiacea (the mint family) also appreciate scarification to wake them up — rub on a #8 seed-screen or on medium grit sandpaper.   Needle-like seeds in the Asteracea…

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