#WORMWOOD ABSYNTH FULL#

It can be useful to repel insect larvae but it need only be planted on the edge of the area of cultivation. It will leach into the soil, interfering and stunting the growth of plants in close proximity. The herb contains a large amount of absinthin which is a water soluble growth inhibiting toxin which will secrete from its roots and wash off the leaves. The best harvest is generally in the second and third year. Air dry for a few days, then put them into glass containers with tightly screwed down lids. Tie the stem ends together in bundles and hang upside down in a shady spot.

#WORMWOOD ABSYNTH FULL#

It self-seeds easily when happy, so deadhead it if you don't want seedlings.įor future use in insect sprays, dried arrangements or sachets, harvest the upper portions of the stalks when they are dry and in full flower. Water regularly until mature.Īlthough frost has little effect on wormwood, the herb is generally pruned in autumn. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Transplant the indoor seedlings when large enough to handle into pots and grow on. Make sure the compost is kept moist but not wet and seal inside a polythene bag until germination which usually takes 10 to 24 days at 20☌ (68☏). Do not cover the seed as they need light for germination. Surface sow at 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in pots or trays containing good seed compost. Sowing: Late winter/late spring and late summer/autumn. The chlorophyll that remains after infusion gives absinthe its green colour. The psychoactive principles are not well understood. It is now believed that regular use could either cause or exacerbate mental illness as well as having serious physical effects. Absinthe enjoyed popularity as well as some controversy in the mid 19th century. Wormwood is best known as the primary ingredient in absinthe. The foliage makes an excellent base for dried wreaths and winter bouquets but should be shaped while fresh as it is brittle when dry. A tea made from wormwood will repel insects effectively. In the house a sachet made of wormwood leaves will keep moths at bay. Use springs of Wormwood around the garden to deter insects. Before its toxicity was known it was used as the name implies, as a worming medicine for people and animals. It has been used for centuries as a moth repellent, general pesticide and as a spray to repel slugs and snails.

However, wormwood is also very poisonous many insects are repelled or even killed by it. With its silvery-green foliage wormwood is a very attractive plant. This member of the compositae family is striking with its grey-green deeply divided leaves which are covered with fine silky hairs.

Wormwood absynth