The Family Kitchen Gardener (1856)/Mustard
MUSTARD.
Sinàpis álba et nìgra.—Moutarde, Fr.—Senf, Ger.
Mustard Seed was first obtained from Egypt, and has been known and cultivated for many hundreds of years. It is extensively used both in its natural state and manufactured, and is considered a wholesome condiment, in whatever way it is taken or prepared. It assists digestion, warms the stomach, and promotes appetite. In the Spring, in its green state, when mixed with salads, it is very refreshing, and ought to be extensively cultivated for that purpose. In Europe it is vastly appreciated, but with us little attention is given to the subject. There are two varieties. The White is principally used for garden purposes, and the seed used medicinally. We can speak practically of its beneficial effects in constipation of the bowels.
One or two table spoonsful a day, sipped from half a tumbler of water, and swallowed whole, is a great relief in dyspeptic cases, and many have been completely cured by its constant use. The London or Durham Table Mustard is made from this species. Black Mustard is of the same flavor, and considered of equal efficacy with the White. From the flour of this variety the American mustard is made.
Culture.—This salad is cultivated in the same manner as recommended for Cress, at all times of the year-sowing every week or two, either in beds or drills, or for early use in hot-beds or boxes, in the windows of a warm room. The seeds should be covered very slightly, and frequently watered, as moisture is indispensable to its growth. It should always be cut when about an inch high, using a sharp knife, and cutting close to the ground, holding the tops in one hand whilst the knife is used with the other. They should be carefully washed from earth or sand, allowing them to be as short time in the water as possible; neither should they be gathered long before using, for their flavor would be thereby impaired. As much of this seed is generally required, a portion should be sown very early to produce it. A bed three feet wide and twenty feet long, having the plants four or six inches apart, will produce a sufficiency of seed for every domestic purpose.