Our Story
Since early childhood, gardening has been a constant and continual presence in my life whether it was growing food for preservation, flowers for enjoyment or on a larger scale, as a farmer's daughter.
It wasn't until 2010, that I became interested in the area of Herbs - primarily for competition at local and state fairs. My very first state competition netted me the IL Grand Champion Herb honors, and I guess as they say, the rest is history.
Never to do anything on a small scale, I commandeered a 1/4 acre of our yard (that much less to mow!) and set about implementing my 5-year plan for an 80' x 60' herb garden consisting of individual beds within the larger framing structure.
Now entering my 8th year, it will soon be completed.... although technically this is only the 5th year of my being able to work on the implementation due to a sidelining injury during year 3...but that's another story... the general plan has stayed relatively the same, but has grown to 84' x 66' and the gazebo was changed out for a pergola.
The most exciting aspect thus far though would have to be the certification by the IL Herb Association of my gardens for Certified IL Herb Garden status in June 2016.
As we headed into 2017, it has become clear that my "little" garden isn't going to be able to sustain the demand for our future endeavors - so in addition to the current presentation and teaching garden (original site), Wertheim's Gardens begin production on the new Herb Farm which we expanded into the former 2 1/2 acre hay field.
The primary focus of the Herb Farm will be on the growth of herbs for medicinal purposes, specifically salves, soaps, lotions, shampoos/conditioners and culinary herbs to be sold either fresh or dried, depending on the season.
We invite you to stop by and tour the presentation and teaching gardens as well as wander the newly expanded Herb Farm.
Herbally Yours,
Amy
