"Sometimes you need the silence of plants to recover from the noise of humans." Certain area residents agree with this concept wholeheartedly.
Members of Carmel-based Herb Society of Central Indiana also serve as a chapter of the Herb Society of America. Local founding member Sue Arnold says the mission of the group is to promote the knowledge, use and delight of herbs through educational programs; as well as to research and share the collective experiences of members with other community residents.
"Sharing our love of anything herbal is what we do best," assures Arnold.
Beginning in the spring of 2001, these local herbal specialists partnered with the Indianapolis Zoo staff to create a beautiful, fragrant herb garden within the Polly Horton Hix Design Gardens of the White River Gardens landscape. The group's volunteers maintain the primarily herbal plants and shrubs of the Sunken Garden, while the staff gardeners provide helpful support and maintain the non-herbal plants that are part of the overall design circle. Members also conduct workshops at Garfield Park Conservatory, with topics ranging from spring herbal gifts to how to use dried herbs for cooking.
Each summer, HSCI President Sharon Patterson says members participate in judging the best herb plant entered at the Indiana State Fair.
"We also conduct monthly educational programs followed by our business meetings. Our meeting topics are as diverse as the world of herbs. In addition to an annual symposium, we offer an educational night in the fall, participate in local garden events, produce herb booklets and conduct field trips," adds Patterson.
Each year, HSCI awards culinary scholarships and arts training program grants, too.
Welcoming both growers and retail members, HSCI participants usually gather once each month. While they've been meeting at the John W. Hensel Government Center, 10701 N. College Ave., at press time, they were reassessing the day of the week and location for 2026 meetings, likely to land at public library locations.
"We welcome gardeners with all types of herbal interests and levels of gardening skills," Patterson confirms.
Perfect for those observing the 'Dry January' annual challenge, ask HSCI members about their recipes for herbal mocktails.
Membership inquiries: 317.363.7936
Sites.Google.com/Herb-Society-of-Central-Indian