AH

Anna Hackman

Herb Farmer and Owner at The Naked Botanical
On the record
Share profile 
Link:
Bio
Edit

I am an avid gardener for over 18 years and pen the garden blog, Green Talk (www.green-talk.com). In addition, I am a retired Rutgers Master Gardener. I had to retire from working with as a MG because my farm, The Naked Botanical (www.thenakedbotanical.com) took up too much of my time. I grow and make herbal products from my farm such as herbal teas, simple syrups, elderberry tonics and more.

Employment
Sign up to view all
  • Growing Herbs: A Cost-Effective and Flavorful Garden Addition
    Anna highlights the cost-effectiveness of growing herbs, noting that a "$4-6 plant can yield all summer." Key tips include ensuring 6 hours of sunlight, proper spacing, and avoiding overcrowding. She recommends herbs like basil, tarragon, and lavender, while cautioning against common mistakes like over-pruning. For optimal flavor, harvest herbs before they flower.
  • Optimal Timing for Planting Perennials: Expert Insights
    Anna advises planting perennials from the garden center post-frost. For seeds, "research is key; some require cold treatment." Winter sowing in a jug mimics nature, ideal for cold zones like 6. Start seeds in January for 90 days of cold. Pot seedlings, moving them to larger pots as they grow. Plant in September or next spring, ensuring consistent watering.
  • Expert Tips on Winterizing Lavender in Cold Climates
    Anna advises using frost covers secured with sandbags around late October. She cautions against cutting back lavender in cold zones, recommending only snipping flowering stems and pruning in spring. "Ensure good drainage by mounding soil and adding pebbles to prevent rot." These steps help lavender survive harsh winters.
Recent Quotes
Sign up to view all
  • https://www.homesandgardens.com/gardens/unusual-herbs
    https://www.homesandgardens.com/gardens/how-to-grow-oregano

Headshots