Flax is grown mostly by commercial growers. This is not a common plant to grow in everyday gardens, but the oil and the seed provide some great potential health benefits, if taken in moderation.

The plant is native to eastern Mediterranean, India, and parts of Europe. It is grown commercially today in parts of Europe, the United States, and Canada. The plant loves a cool climate and is considered a fast grower.

This spice has been around thousand years. The ancient Egyptians made linens out the out of parts of the plant, and used the cloth to wrap their mummies. The specie thrives in dry, sandy, and rocky areas. It is considered an annual and usually planted in the springtime. In milder climates, Flax can be grown as an annual throughout the winter months. With different varieties being developed, some of the winter yield may contain better quality oilseed and fibers.

There are two methods to planting, one is conventional tilling, and the other is no till, seeds put directly into the ground. In the learning center section, there is a page on soybeans that gives a simple explanation of tilling compared to no till. These unique plants will mature anywhere from around one foot to four feet tall. The species produce flowers with five petals. There can be up to ten to twelve seeds in each flower. The flowers will continually produce throughout the growing season.

Depending on location, the flax fiber is usually sown in February through April. Insects usually don't bother this specimen, but weeds and fungus can become a problem if the soil make up doesn't have the right nutrients. In the simple solution section there are pages that may help identify different problems with flax. Spraying for weeds as well as learning about pests and diseases.

Nutrients such as Zinc should be applied to the soil. Excess nitrogen can bring on diseases. Harvesting oilseed is done by combining or in Canada it is called swathing. The fiber is harvested by pulling and not cutting. Both of these methods are done in many different geographic locations. Harvest time will vary depending on the climate and weather conditions.

Depending on the variety of this specie, the seeds are either golden or brown. They are a little bigger than Sesame seeds. The seeds are somewhat crunchy, but can be used in so many culinary dishes. I have put the seeds over vegetables as a garnish with other herbs and spices. Sprinkle some of them over a roast or other meats.

Their nutritional value is very high in Omega 3. There are so many health benefits with this spice in the oil or seed form. Many professionals view this specimen in the same category as taking a multi vitamin. Always check with your professional before ingesting this or any other herb.

You can purchase Flax seeds at the store in ground or whole. This spice is a great addition to a variety of dishes, as well as a wonderful health benefit and source of Omega 3. I hope this information has given you a little more insight on another spice.