from left to right, cilantro, oregano to be planted this weekend, sage and chives from last year and mint.

One of my favorite parts of the summer is sitting outside enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Last summer I learned about a new book and attended a book reading for it with the author at the New York Botanical Garden. It's called The Drunken Botanist, by Amy Stewart. It's a great collection of recipes and history. Also a lovely way to use those herbs in the garden.

Martha Stewart has 6 ways to change up your mojito and Terrain shares this tasty grapefruit cocktail recipe.

This year I have planted an herb section in my garden. I have planted oregano, basil, chocolate mint, dill, parsley, cilantro, mint and thyme. What can be better than having friends over, mixing cocktails and plucking your ingredients right from your own yard.

Enjoy!

Tracey Toole