Basic Herb Garden

A basic herb garden is an easy way to enhance your yard as well as your kitchen. While many people keep fresh herbs in pots all year round, even novice gardeners should consider planting outside for the spring and summer months.

Planning an Herb Garden

Expansive herb gardens were a feature of many historical homes. Not all of the herbs were used for cooking; some were chosen for their beauty or fragrance. It was common to have nearly a hundred different herbs in a garden that served a large house.

A good herb garden does not have to be as large in scope. At first, focus on growing herbs you know you will use regularly. Keep in mind that herbs can grow to be very large, so be sure to have adequate room. Some strains of rosemary, for example, can grow to be over six feet tall.

Like all plants, it is important to know what type of soil and sun your herbs prefer. While many herbs thrive in poor soil, some herbs, like dill, need a rich soil in order to grow well. Most herbs will also grow in partial sun, while full sun will increase the growth rate of many herbs.

Popular Choices for Basic Herb Gardens

While there are herbs more exotic, these five common plants will provide a wide variety of flavors to enhance the food you prepare.

• Rosemary should only be grown from cuttings. Rosemary seeds can be purchased, but they have poor germination rates and often produce less vigorous plants.

• Basil is an essential herb for those people who love pesto and tomato based dishes. Easy to grow from seed, there are many different types of basil, including lemon scented and purple varieties.

• Thyme may be the easiest herb to grow. You can start from seed indoors, or divide an existing plant into several settings. Be sure to cut regularly to prevent thyme from getting woody.

• Dill is a member of the carrot family and has a long taproot. For this reason, it is difficult to transplant. Consider planting extra if you grow your own cucumbers instead of buying dill for pickling.

• Sage has at least 30 varieties, all with varying flavor and appearance. Try going to a local nursery to taste the different options available before deciding on a variety to plant.

Preserving Your Herb Garden

Depending on your part of the country, most of your herbs will not survive cold weather. Knowing how to collect seeds, cuttings, and plants are essential skills to master when you replant your basic herb garden in the spring.

Seeds

Some plants will reseed themselves for the next year. In this case, you should let the plants go to seed, saving some seed in case of a problem next year. It is always best to preserve your own herb seeds; the plants you grow from these seeds will adapt quickly to the demands of your particular climate.

Potted Plants and Cuttings

Most herbs can be potted and brought indoors. For larger plants, such as rosemary, you may have better luck rooting cuttings instead of digging up the entire plant. In general, it is best to have pots that are a gallon or larger to fully accommodate the root structure of the plant.

If you are determined to use smaller pots, it may be best to sprout new plants from seed or use cuttings. Plan and start your indoor herb garden several weeks before the first frost and you will have fresh herbs year round.

Drying Herbs

Herbs that you have elected not to save can be cut and dried. The best and simplest method is to hang bunches of herbs upside down in a dark airy room. Be sure to create small bundles so that air can easily circulate. After about two weeks, store the herbs in jars. Opaque jars are best; clear jars of herbs must be kept in a cabinet away from the light.

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• Category:Herb Garden
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