Saturday 20 December 2008

How To Grow Herbs Outdoors or in Container Gardens



Whether you are growing herbs outdoors or in a container garden, good soil is one of the most fundamental conditions for encouraging healthy plants. While the sun is important for the energy they need for growth and reproduction, these chemical reactions can only occur with components from the soil. For this reason, it is important to grow your herbs in soil which provides all the necessary nutrients.

Water content, nitrogen and phosphorus content, alkalinity, and acidity, are all factors controlled by the soil in which your herbs are planted. Keeping all of these at the right level is one of the most important things you can do to help your herbs thrive. You should do some research on your herbs to find out the necessary soil levels.

In container gardens, all of these levels are up to you to completely control. In outdoor settings, nature provides some help, but you should still monitor these levels to ensure optimum herb growth.

Different herbs have different requirements. For example, lavender grows best in dry, alkaline soil with good drainage. Sage can get root rot if you keep the soil too moist. Nurseries or garden centers can help you determine your herbs' needs and find soil that will help your herbs achieve maximum growth.

Soil is usually categorized as sandy, clay-like, or somewhere in between. Soil with a clay component retains water, while sandy soil provides good drainage. Most herbs require something in the middle of these two extremes. The addition of good compost can help you achieve the right balance, but you should understand your herbs' specific requirements to choose the right soil.

When growing herbs, you also need to watch for pests. These include flying bugs as well as bugs in the soil, which is yet another reason to monitor your soil conditions. However, herbs can also help keep some pests from attacking your other plants. For example, planting herbs can help deter aphids that may be attracted to the scent of roses and certain vegetables. Chives, mint, basil, and cilantro also help control pests. For example, basil can keep tomato hornworm from ruining your tomatoes.

However, you should be aware that some herbs attract pests. Dill and yarrow can attract wasps, but keep some species of beetles away. Tomato hornworms attack dill, but this can keep them away from your tomatoes.

If you are growing herbs but want to avoid pests, you may want to consider a neem oil as a natural pesticide or insecticide. However, keep in mind that if you plan to use your herbs for culinary uses, you should avoid pesticides if possible.

Growing herbs does not have to be difficult. However, if you want healthy plants, watch for pests and provide the right soil type for your herbs.

About the Author:


Monday 1 December 2008

Herbs and Spices: More than a Culinary Delight

Every healthy kitchen has herbs and spices maintained in its cupboard. They provide healthy addition to all dishes. They are medically usages. Researches continue investigating herbs and spices to discover any other mysterious validity.

There are many common herbs and spices we use every day that has added benefits that we might not think about. For instance when we think of cinnamon, we might think of apple pie and breakfast buns, but many know cinnamon for its anti-inflammatory properties as well. It is used by many as an aid to lowering blood pressure and reducing cholesterol. Cinnamon sticks can be steeped to make a healthy tea. Just add a little lemon and honey.

Flavor and Health will be added widely

Another healthy herb is rosemary. It is known as anti-inflammatory and used medically. It has a flavor similar to the lemon. If add eggs, it will be delicious as well.

A common and well loved ingredient in our list of herbs and spices is garlic. It is believed to have anti-microbial properties and helps build immunity against a number of cancers. Garlic helps to prevent cardiovascular disease and lower blood pressure. Garlic is used in a wide range of dishes including sauces, soups and stews, along with marinades and salad dressings.

The famous fennel is known of its antioxidant powers. It has anti-inflammatory characteristics as well. Italian kitchen is using fennel in some delicious foods, such as chicken, pork and sausages. Fennel is eaten either as a raw vegetable, or a roasted one. It can be used a side-dish as well. Its flavor likes the anise's one.

Peppermint Brings to mind images of striped candy canes and other sweets, but actually peppermint contains high levels of antioxidants and is also believed to contain anti-microbial and antiviral substances. Peppermint can sooth an upset stomach and may help to relieve pain. Fresh peppermint is used with strawberries and other fruits, vegetable dishes containing peas or carrots and is a refreshing addition to any salad.

At last, not only do herbs and spices are used in kitchen, but they also are using medically. Their benefits are many, especially if related with cardiovascular and arranging blood pressure as well.
Manuel Wiggins has information and resources on his website about Herbs , and you can read more about Herb Gardening

Pest Control And Proper Selection Of Soil For Growing Herbs

By Thomas Fryd

Whether you are growing herbs outdoors or in a container garden, good soil is one of the most fundamental conditions for encouraging healthy plants. While the sun is important for the energy they need for growth and reproduction, these chemical reactions can only occur with components from the soil. For this reason, it is important to grow your herbs in soil which provides all the necessary nutrients.

Water content, nitrogen and phosphorus content, alkalinity, and acidity, are all factors controlled by the soil in which your herbs are planted. Keeping all of these at the right level is one of the most important things you can do to help your herbs thrive. You should do some research on your herbs to find out the necessary soil levels.

In container gardens, all of these levels are up to you to completely control. In outdoor settings, nature provides some help, but you should still monitor these levels to ensure optimum herb growth.

Different herbs have different requirements. For example, lavender grows best in dry, alkaline soil with good drainage. Sage can get root rot if you keep the soil too moist. Nurseries or garden centers can help you determine your herbs' needs and find soil that will help your herbs achieve maximum growth.

Soil is usually categorized as sandy, clay-like, or somewhere in between. Soil with a clay component retains water, while sandy soil provides good drainage. Most herbs require something in the middle of these two extremes. The addition of good compost can help you achieve the right balance, but you should understand your herbs' specific requirements to choose the right soil.

When growing herbs, you also need to watch for pests. These include flying bugs as well as bugs in the soil, which is yet another reason to monitor your soil conditions. However, herbs can also help keep some pests from attacking your other plants. For example, planting herbs can help deter aphids that may be attracted to the scent of roses and certain vegetables. Chives, mint, basil, and cilantro also help control pests. For example, basil can keep tomato hornworm from ruining your tomatoes.

However, you should be aware that some herbs attract pests. Dill and yarrow can attract wasps, but keep some species of beetles away. Tomato hornworms attack dill, but this can keep them away from your tomatoes.

If you are growing herbs but want to avoid pests, you may want to consider a neem oil as a natural pesticide or insecticide. However, keep in mind that if you plan to use your herbs for culinary uses, you should avoid pesticides if possible.

Growing herbs does not have to be difficult. However, if you want healthy plants, watch for pests and provide the right soil type for your herbs.

Learn more of what Thomas Fryd has to share over at www.plant-care.com. For more information about neem oil insecticide.

Sunday 16 November 2008

How to Dry Herbs and Retain Their Quality

By Manuel Wiggins

No doubt that, herbs are considered compliment to most of recipes. Purchasing herbs from the shelves of supermarkets means getting products of lower quality that are stored for a long term. Consequently, knowing how to dry herbs from your own garden is to get the best quality.

Considering there are many ways of drying herbs, the best of them is to dry them in absolute air. This way assists in maintaining the basic contents of herbs like natural oil. This way of drying is advised also for some herbs that have not high moisture content, such as bay, oregano and thyme.

Best Way to Air Dry Herbs

Herbs can be cut in the mid morning when the dew has dried. Leaves can be removed if shows insect damage or disease. It may be rinsed under cool water along with. Small bundles can be made of herbs, and tied with a rubber band. To do the final step, hanging the herb bundles in a warm place is favored.

To use paper bags in drying herbs is a good method. The paper may be punched firstly. Put the small bundles of herbs into the paper bags and hang them. A couple of weeks later, you can check your herbs and see that they are dried completely.

Way of Drying Herbs with a Dehydrator

If a food dehydrator or freezing are used, drying of herbs including more moisture will be best. A dehydrator is a best way of drying. It is quicker and easiest way that maintains the herbs' high quality and control of air circulating and temperature as well. Drying times are varied according to moisture contents. Also leaves' thickness and quantities of drying per a time are reasons of different times of drying. As soon as the leaves are crisp, and stems brittle herbs can be dried.

How to Store Dry Herbs

Store herbs after having dried, is important in order to maintain their freshness. There are many methods to store herbs, such as small plastic bags or jars. It must avoid light and heat. As soon as learning the ways of drying herbs, it will be considered as the first step towards being skillful cookers.

Manuel Wiggins has information and resources on his website about Herbs , and you can read more about Herb Gardens

Saturday 20 September 2008

Growing Fresh Herbs - What You Need To Know

Do you want to provide your family with wholesome food and save money in the process? Well growing fresh herbs is the way to create a tasty meal and nutritious meal. The effort is well worth it as it takes very little effort on your behalf in growing the fresh herbs and the rewards of growing culinary herbs in food cannot be beaten.

Growing Fresh Herbs - Your Choice

Start by choosing the herbs you plan to use often if you’re growing fresh herbs for the first time. For example, if Italian cooking is your strong point then oregano would be a good first choice as it complements tomato based recipes. Other herbs to consider would be caraway, parsley and chervil that go well with soups salads and stews. Basil, marjoram and tarragon work with meat dishes while cilantro adds zest to soups and beans. Rosemary and sage add savory flavor to stuffing and chamomile and sweet woodruff make fragrant teas.

Options for Growing Fresh Herbs

Depending on how much time you have and the garden space will dictate what herbs you will want to plant and harvest in your garden. But here are several options for growing fresh herbs.

Your Traditional Garden

If you have space in your back garden for a conventional garden and you have an assortment of different herb plants to grow, then creating a traditional patch in your backyard would be the best way. For convenience sake try and keep the herb garden close to the house so you can step outside and quickly cut some herbs. Make sure the plot is in an area that has direct sunlight and is well-drained.

The Indoor Garden

If you lack space then growing fresh herbs, in an indoor environment, can work well. For an indoor garden you will only be able to grow a few herbs. Make sure that you select a sunny window and a stable windowsill to place them on. Check for pests and water occasionally and the plants should flourish and produce flavorful herbs

The Container Garden

The container garden gives you the option of having a larger quantity of herbs that can be placed outside. The containers only requirement is that they can provide good drainage. This type of garden is considered transportable as the containers used for growing fresh herbs can be moved at any time required. Container gardens are convenient for anyone who does not have the time to keep an actual garden but desires to grow a large amount of herbs.

For more on herbs and herb gardens visit: http://www.nametheherb.com

Spice Up Your Cooking With Fresh Culinary Herbs From The Garden

By Jeff Glasser

Nothing can make a difference in a meal like adding fresh herbs instead of dried herbs. You can get fresh herbs at your grocery store but they do not store for very long and they can be expensive. Creating your own culinary herb garden is one alternative. Most herbs are easy to grow and maintain and can continue to provide for you throughout the course of the year.

With small pots and a few packages of seeds you can begin growing your own culinary herb garden right in your own kitchen. If you would prefer to keep your plants outside you will have no problem creating a culinary herb garden there either.

Plant Different Types Of Culinary Herbs In Your Garden

It is fun to create a culinary herbal garden that features multiple types of plants. One popular herb plant that should certainly be in a culinary garden is sweet basil. Basil smells wonderful when it's growing and brings so much additional flavor to meals when added fresh. Dried basil is generally unable to capture the true taste of basil. If you like to make your own pesto now you can have your own fresh basil to use in it.

Growing rosemary in your garden serves two purposes. Today it is predominantly used in a culinary fashion. Foods in the Mediterranean region are commonly seasoned with Rosemary. As an added bonus rosemary is a source of iron and calcium. Rosemary can also be used in a medicinal form as well.

You might want to make sure you have some Thyme planted in your culinary herb garden if you enjoy Greek, French, or even Spanish cooking. This herb is used to add flavor to a variety of meats and adds a little flavor kick to eggs. Thyme also has antiseptic qualities that have been used for centuries.

Sage makes another great addition to a culinary herb garden and has the added bonus of producing beautiful flowers. Sage is said to have numerous medicinal benefits as well.

Whatever you decide to plant, do not forget to have a little fun with your garden. With the different varieties of plants you have selected create a unique herb garden design. Organize them according to how they are used. Just make sure wherever your herb plants are located they are meeting the requirements they need to grow and have the appropriate amount of space. Otherwise your hard work will be wasted and you will be forced to start all over again.

Nothing can make a difference in a meal like adding fresh herbs. With tiny pots and a some packages of seeds you can start cultivating your own culinary herb garden right in your own kitchen

Get The Family Involved With A Chia Herb Garden

By Jeff Glasser

With the new chia herb garden growing your herbs has never been easier. Everything you need to grow your herbs comes packaged with this set. With the chia herb garden, growing herbs is so easy it offers a great way to get children involved in the fun. Everyone can have their own herb to take care of as each kit comes with multiple pots and seeds. From seed to in your food, this kit will provide your family with a lot of fun as you grow your own herb garden for the kitchen.

What Comes With A Chia Herb Garden

Four small terra cotta pots with matching saucers comes with each chia herb garden kit. Saucer liners are also included which will help prevent water from leaking through the terra cotta saucer. Their simple decorative design will look great in your kitchen.

You have a little bit of a choice as to what you want to plant in the terra cotta pots as six different types of seed packets are provided. The varieties of seeds included with your chia herb garden are dill, sweet basil, curled parsley, chives, cilantro, and sweet marjoram.

A plant marker for each of the six varieties of herbs can be used to identify which pot contains which herb.

Also, packaged in the set are four specially designed chia growing sponges. These will provide the medium in which your seeds will grow.

The most important piece of your chia herb garden kit is going to be the directions. In the direction booklet you will find everything you need to know about growing and maintaining your herbs from seed to maturity. Also included in the direction booklet are a number of recipes that incorporate the fresh herbs you are growing in your chia herb garden.

How Do I Grow My Chia Herb Garden

You can easily plant your chia herb garden in a few simple steps. The first thing you will need to do is moisten the chia growing sponges for each of the pots. Drop one into each of the four pots once they have taken form.

After you have chosen your four seed varieties take the first package and distribute the seeds on top of the chia growing sponge. Continue the same process for the other three seed packages.

You will begin to see your seeds sprout with regular watering. Once they reach a certain size you will be able to transplant them to an outdoor garden if you wish too. The instruction book covers transplanting if you decide to do it.

Growing your herbs has never been easier with the new chia herb garden. This set comes packaged with everything you need to grow your herbs...Browse more no cost articles at www.organicgardening.jsgenterprises.com.

Friday 29 August 2008

So You Want To Plant A Herb Garden?

by Rachel Ray

Herbs have been around for a very long time and served different kinds of purposes. They have been used to treat sickness and season cooking as well as being used in many craft projects. Interested in starting your own herb garden? Here are a few ideas on how to begin an herb garden.

Plan your garden. Consider the herbs you want to plant. Think about their types. Would you like annuals, biennials or perennials? Are you wanting certain plants for cooking, or another purpose?
How much space will they occupy when they are full grown? You can purchase a book or go to the library that can give you the right information on what specific plant's requirements for each variety. You can also check out a gardening book or catalog or the nursery you purchase plants from to give you that information. You'll want to look at sunlight needs as well.

Make your garden plan on paper first. Separate the annuals from the perennials so when the time comes that you have to pull out the annuals, you won't be disturbing the perennials. Perennials can be planted on the edge of your garden so when it is time to till your garden they won't be in danger of getting dug up, or try to place them in an area of the garden all their own.

Another thing to remember is that you should plant the tall ones at the back and the shorter ones in front. Provide your plants with enough space to grow and also consider their sunlight requirements. Proper position shall help you in this area.

If you would rather keep herbs out of your garden (and some are quite invasive) you could have herb pots. These are large containers with three or more outlets for the herbs. Fill the pot up to the first outlet and plant it before continuing on with the filling and planting process. Usually, the herb that requires the most water is planted in the bottom hole, while the variety that requires the least, goes in the highest hole. Use a great quality potting soil and make sure it has proper drainage.

You can design your garden in a creative manner. Try using a wooden ladder or wagon wheel and lay on top of the garden. Then plant your plants in between the sections for a square or circular division and interesting look.

Different plants have various requirements, but many of them need alkaline soil. This is the reason why it's important to discover your plants needs before you begin the planting process. If you germinate your herbs from seeds on your own, remember to follow the directions on the packet for soil, watering and temperature and when it's safe to plant them in the spring.

Herbs can be very easy to grow on your own. Give each plant it's basic requirements in regards to sunlight, proper drainage, moisture and fertile soil and you're bound to get a great harvest.

Think about harvest time as well. What will you do with them? Eat or cook them fresh? Freeze or otherwise preserve them? You'll discover after your first year which ones you really liked and were useful to you, and which didn't work out as you would have liked. So next year your herb garden can be even better with more experience under your belt.

About the Author:

A Guide To A Beginner's Herb Garden

by Rachel Ray

Herbs have been around forever it seems and serve different kinds of purposes. Herbs have been used to treat illness, maladies, and flavor cooking as well as being used in many craft type projects. Interested in starting your own herb garden? Here are a few pointers on how to start an herb garden.

Time to come up with a plan. Think about the various types of herbs you'd like to try and the purpose of those herbs, such as for specific recipes, etc. Would they be annuals, biennials or perennials? Make a wish list.

Time to research some specific information on those plants. How big will they be full grown? What are their sunshine and soil requirements? You can get a book at the library or gardening catalog of some type that will list those variables for you.

Make your garden plan on paper first. Separate the annuals from the perennials so when the time comes that you have to pull out the annuals, you won't be disturbing the perennials. Perennials can be planted on the edge of your garden so when it is time to till your garden they won't be in danger of getting dug up, or try to place them in an area of the garden all their own.

Some tips would be to consider planting the taller plants towards the back of the garden and the shorter ones in front. Give your plants plenty of space to grow and mature to avoid overcrowding. Be sure to consider their sunlight requirements as well when choosing which to position to plant each plant.

If you would rather keep herbs out of your garden (and some are quite invasive) you could have herb pots. These are large containers with three or more outlets for the herbs. Fill the pot up to the first outlet and plant it before continuing on with the filling and planting process. Usually, the herb that requires the most water is planted in the bottom hole, while the variety that requires the least, goes in the highest hole. Use a great quality potting soil and make sure it has proper drainage.

You can also have a square shaped herb bedding area. You can divide your square bed into sections. Consider edging it with stones or bricks for a lovely look . A wooden ladder can be used as well. You lay it down on your garden and plant your herbs between its rungs as a divider. You can opt to use a wagon wheel in the bedding. Planting is like planting with the wooden ladders only it will be a circular shape.

Different plants have various requirements, but many of them need alkaline soil. This is the reason why it's important to discover your plants needs before you begin the planting process. If you germinate your herbs from seeds on your own, remember to follow the directions on the packet for soil, watering and temperature and when it's safe to plant them in the spring.

Herbs are some of the simplest plants to grow. You need to provide them with effective drainage, sunlight, enough humidity or moisture and fertile soil. With these basic conditions they are bound to produce an awesome harvest.

You'll also want to consider what you plan to do with the harvest. Will you cook them fresh? Freeze or preserve them in some other way? You'll discover that you have some favorites each year and which ones didn't perform as you would have hoped.

About the Author:

Thursday 28 August 2008

Herbs Battle Pests Easier With Proper Soil Balance

by Kent Higgins

Good soil is a crucial component for growing healthy herbs, either in the ground or in containers. Herbs receive the energy they need for growth and reproduction from the sun, but many of the components they use to carry out these sun-driven chemical reactions are derived from the soil in which they are planted.

The makeup of the soil determines a plant's water, nitrogen and phosphorous content, as well as its alkalinity, acidity and much more. Keeping all these factors in the proper balance is of utmost importance to the health of your herbs. Plants grown in outdoor soil have nature on their side and may require only a little bit of assistance from the gardener. On the other hand, the soil makeup present in a container garden is completely determined by the grower and may be altered to suit the needs of particular plants. Lavender likes good drainage and dry, alkaline soil, and sage can suffer root rot if the soil is kept too wet.

The needs of your plants should determine the type of soil you grow them in. Soils may range from sandy to clay-like, with many variations in between. Soils that are rich in clay tend to hold and retain water, while sandy soils, made up of glass-like particles called silicates, allow for better air flow and allow water to drain through them easily.

Most herbs are happiest with a mix of both soils, and you can vary the mixture to suit your particular plant. Sage, for example, likes drier, sandier soils, while peppermint thrives in a moist, clay-rich soil. A good compost can help with the soil balancing act.

Both airborne and underground pests are a consideration when growing herbs, but the proper soil maintenance can keep your plants strong enough to deter most of them. In fact, many herbs are pest-resistant when properly cared for.

Planting chives, mint, basil and cilantro around your roses and vegetables can help keep aphids away, and basil can also stave off tomato hornworm attacks. Sometimes, though, the balance becomes more tricky, and you must determine what you want to attract and repel. If you want to keep beetles away, dill and yarrow will attract the parasitic wasps that feed on them, but then you have the wasps to contend with.

Because tomato hornworms also love dill, the herb is often used as a "trap crop," meaning you can grow it so that the worms will eat it instead of your tomatoes. Of course, using this method ensures your dill won't last very long. Many herb gardeners deal with such dilemmas by carefully using pesticides that harm the pests that certain herbs attract. These chemicals must be used carefully, though, if you plan to use your herbs as food seasonings. Even pesticides deemed "safe" on house plants can accumulate to toxic amounts over time.

So perhaps your best bet to fend off herb pests is to keep your plants strong and healthy through proper soil maintenance.

About the Author:

Wednesday 20 August 2008

Choosing Your Herbs

If you are interested in herbs you may be astonished to realize how many herbs you are already growing.

Parsley, chives, garlic, spearmint, dill and sage appear in almost every garden. And they are among the most valued herbs. Do you raise violets, roses, nasturtiums and marigolds? These, too, are herbs, even though we call them flowers.

Along with these herbs, add thyme, summer savory, sweet marjoram, basil, lemon balm (Melissa), borage and chervil, and you will have a good start on a herb garden which will provide for most of your needs.

Herbs are fun to grow, and they are easy to raise unless you choose to make a major project of it. Unfortunately, I have never developed a “green thumb”; most plants don't “just grow’5 for me. But herbs do. With very poor conditions, I manage to have all the herbs I want for myself or to give to friends.

Although herbs are supposed to need plenty of sunlight and an alkaline soil, mine get shade and clay. They do best with lots of space in which to grow; I have practically none. Our climate is dry, the winds hot, the growing season short. And still, should you stop by some afternoon, I can give you a cup of tea flavored with lemon balm, herb-flavored canapés, and buttered scones spread with rose geranium jelly.

Fortunately for lazy gardeners like myself, those herbs most frequently used are also the easiest grown. One packet of seeds for each will be more than enough. If you have only a small space, divide the seeds with a friend, or save some for a second planting later in the summer, for plants to take indoors during the winter.

When deciding which herbs to put in your garden, remember that it must be suited to your particular way of life. If you enjoy entertaining and love to cook, you will want a garden planted mostly with culinary herbs. If you wish for fragrance primarily, you would choose some other herbs. Or if a collection of as many herbs as possible is your goal, still another plan would be needed.

Basic Herbs

Practically everyone who grows herbs has her own basic list, and you will not be long in finding yours. However, to start with, try these:

Sow seeds of: Sweet basil, Parsley, Borage, Dill, Burnet, Sweet marjoram, Chervil, Summer: savory, Get roots of: Spearmint, Lemon balm, Peppermint, Chives (bulblets)

Get plants of: Sage, Thyme, Rosemary, Lavender, The Culinary Seeds

Although when we speak of using herbs, we generally refer to the leaves, there are some which are better known for their seeds. Of these the most popular are:

Anise Coriander Mustard
Caraway Cumin Poppy
Cardamon Dill Sesame
Celery Fennel

Since the leaves as well as the seeds of fennel, mustard, dill, anise and caraway are used in cooking you may want to include one or all of them in your herb garden. However, herbs grown for their seed alone are scarcely worth the space and bother. The crop is too small to be of value, and you can buy fresh seed inexpensively packaged at any grocery store.

Check out more gardening resources

Friday 11 July 2008

Growing Your Own Herbs

If you’re not the type of person that wants to spend their time managing an elaborate fruit or vegetable garden, you might consider planting and maintaining an herb garden. While the product might not seem as significant, you’ll still enjoy the constant availability of fresh, delicious herbs to flavor your meals with.

First you’ll want to choose the herbs that you’ll plant. You might have a hard time doing this because of the huge scope of herbs available. But the best way to choose is to do what I did; just look at what you have in your kitchen. By planting your own collection of these herbs, you can save money on buying them from the grocery store while having the added benefit of freshness. Some of the herbs you might start with include rosemary,sage, basil, dill, mint, chives, and parsley among others.

When choosing an area to put your herb garden, you should remember that the soil should have extremely good drainage. If the dirt gets watered and stays completely saturated, you have no chance of ever growing a healthy plant. One of the best ways to fix the drainage problem is to dig a foot deep in the soil, and put a layer of crushed rocks down before replacing all the soil. This will allow all that water to escape, thus saving your plants.

When you are ready to begin planting herbs, you might be tempted to buy the more expensive plants from the store. However, with herbs it is much easier to grow them from seed than it is with other plants. Therefore you can save a bundle of money by sticking with seed packets. Some herbs grow at a dangerously fast rate. For example, if you plant a mint plant in an open space then it will take over your entire garden in a matter of days.The best way to prevent this problem is to plant the more aggressive plants in pots (with holes in the bottom to allow drainage, of course).

When it comes time to harvest the herbs you have labored so hard over, it can be fatal to your plant to take off too much. If your plant isn’t well established, it isn’t healthy to take any leaves at all, even if it looks like its not using them. You should wait until your plant has been well established for at least several months before taking off any leaves. This wait will definitely be worth it, because by growing unabated your plant will produce healthily for years to come.
Once you’ve harvested your delicious home grown herbs, you’ll want to use them in cooking. Why else would you have grown them? Well first the process begins with drying them out. This is easily achieved by placing them on a cookie sheet and baking them 170 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 4hours. After they’re sufficiently dried to be used in cooking, you can consult the nearest cookbook for instructions on using them to effectively flavor a dish.

If you want to store your herbs for later usage, you should keep them in a plastic or glass container. Paper or cardboard will not work, because it will absorb the taste of the herbs. During the first few days of storage, you should regularly check the container and see if any moisture has accumulated. If it has, you must remove all the herbs and re-dry them. If moisture is left from the first drying process, it will encourage mildew while you store your herbs. Nobody likes mildew.

So if you enjoy herbs or gardening, or both, then you should probably consider setting up an herb garden. It might require a little bit of work at first to set it up for optimal drainage, and pick what herbs you want to grow. But after the initial hassle, it’s just a matter of harvesting and drying all your favorite herbs.

Friday 6 June 2008

Grow Herbs That Fight Pests On Their Own

Author: Kent Higgins

Good soil is a crucial component for growing healthy herbs, either in the ground or in containers. Herbs receive the energy they need for growth and reproduction from the sun, but many of the components they use to carry out these sun-driven chemical reactions are derived from the soil in which they are planted.

The makeup of the soil determines a plant's water, nitrogen and phosphorous content, as well as its alkalinity, acidity and much more. Keeping all these factors in the proper balance is of utmost importance to the health of your herbs. Plants grown in outdoor soil have nature on their side and may require only a little bit of assistance from the gardener. On the other hand, the soil makeup present in a container garden is completely determined by the grower and may be altered to suit the needs of particular plants. Lavender likes good drainage and dry, alkaline soil, and sage can suffer root rot if the soil is kept too wet.

The needs of your plants should determine the type of soil you grow them in. Soils may range from sandy to clay-like, with many variations in between. Soils that are rich in clay tend to hold and retain water, while sandy soils, made up of glass-like particles called silicates, allow for better air flow and allow water to drain through them easily.

Most herbs are happiest with a mix of both soils, and you can vary the mixture to suit your particular plant. Sage, for example, likes drier, sandier soils, while peppermint thrives in a moist, clay-rich soil. A good compost can help with the soil balancing act.

Both airborne and underground pests are a consideration when growing herbs, but the proper soil maintenance can keep your plants strong enough to deter most of them. In fact, many herbs are pest-resistant when properly cared for.

Planting chives, mint, basil and cilantro around your roses and vegetables can help keep aphids away, and basil can also stave off tomato hornworm attacks. Sometimes, though, the balance becomes more tricky, and you must determine what you want to attract and repel. If you want to keep beetles away, dill and yarrow will attract the parasitic wasps that feed on them, but then you have the wasps to contend with.

Because tomato hornworms also love dill, the herb is often used as a "trap crop," meaning you can grow it so that the worms will eat it instead of your tomatoes. Of course, using this method ensures your dill won't last very long. Many herb gardeners deal with such dilemmas by carefully using pesticides that harm the pests that certain herbs attract. These chemicals must be used carefully, though, if you plan to use your herbs as food seasonings. Even pesticides deemed "safe" on indoor houseplantscan accumulate to toxic amounts over time.

So perhaps your best bet to fend off herb pests is to keep your plants strong and healthy through proper soil maintenance.

For a greater understanding on the subject of house plants. Visit us for lots of free information at http://www.plant-care.com.

Monday 21 April 2008

Things To Know About Herb Gardening

There are important things to know about herb gardening that will surely give you the opportunity to succeed in this area. Whether you are planning for container herb gardening; indoor herb-gardening , or the other type, you need to establish an effective herb gardening management so that all you desire will be attainable.

You may not know it, herb-gardening, indoor herb gardening is becoming more and more popular and one of the reasons for that is its practical value. Why? Aside from its uses in kitchen, herb garden also offers a decorative view that flowering plants can do. In other words, herb garden serves for a double purpose.

Another essential part of herb gardening, whether an indoor herb gardening or container herb-gardening is that, you can dry herbs so that they can be used during winter or off-season. To have this done, you may cut,wash, and hang up-as the process of preservation. Then, after a couple of weeks, you can put them in a jar after drying in an oven. Though this can be laborious in your part, proper herb gardening management can make it simpler for this procedure.

One of the most planted in herb-gardening is Basil. This offer a decorative view like ornamental flowers and also can be used in your kitchen. Specifically, this can be added to tomato juice and paste to add flavor.

Another is the herb called Chives that is similar to grass. They are much stronger, more than their appearance and can be grown up to the most dry season- drought. Whether in container herb gardening or not, you can add this as part of your herb garden. Chives are being used in egg-dishes, salads and several types of sauce.

Mint is also one of the most planted and this is very simple to grow. This is commonly used in mint juleps; mint jelly; lemonade and other kind of drinks.

Another is the Lavender and this perhaps the best smelling herb from all. This is used to produce scented candle, as a perfume scent and for improving the linen chests. Herb gardening really have several uses and that is the fact that can not be denied.

There are a lot more of herbs that you can plant in your garden. These will surely make your garden beautiful like ornamental and other decorative plants; these also give you the things that you need to add in your kitchen stuff like salads and other foods that need herbs for additional flavor. You can achieve its full benefits if you learn more knowledge regarding their particular usage.

And one thing is for sure, herb gardening can be an ideal hobby that you can have. So, it is practically essential that you are able to have an herb gardening management strategy to maximize its benefits.

Bercle George is an expert gardener and has published an excellent rose growing and gardening resource at

http://www.rosegrowingguide.com/

Propagation in Herb Gardening

Before you start thinking about herb gardening you you should know how they are propagated.

Propagation refers to how new plants are created. There are several ways to propagate plants. The first is by seeds. Seeds should be planted in a rich planting medium made of one part potting soil, two parts vermiculite, and one part peat moss. This soil is light and allows seeds to grow easily. Do not use soil from your yard because it is contaminated and is usually doesn't allow a seed to germinate easily.

Propagation by Seed

Some seeds need special care before you can plant them. They mean you'd to be soaked in water to soften their outer shell or they may need to be frozen or refrigerated for a time. Some seeds may need extra heat to help with germination. Plant your seeds in seed trays or tiny pots, then they can be planted in the ground after germination.

Seeds should be planted six to eight weeks before the last frost of the year. This gives the new plants enough time to grow and get used to being outside before being planted in the ground. This is called "hardening off" - a gradual exposure to weather and sun.

Place seeds in your containers, and prepare them according to their needs. Some herbs will just need to be put into the potting soil while others will need special care. Put plastic or glass over the top of the containers and keep them moist by placing water in a tray below the container.

You can also water by removing the plastic and misting gently with a spray bottle, then replacing the cover. The plastic or glass will keep the soil moist so you won't need to water for several days.

Some seeds will need bottom heat. There are several ways in which this can be done. You can purchase a commercial seed bottom warmer, install florescent or grow lights, or use a water bed heaters. Never use a heating pad because if it should get wet, you will have big problems.

As soon as the plants have sprouted, remove the glass or plastic covering. Pull the weakest of the seedlings, and leave the strongest and healthiest of those to flourish.

Place your seedlings under grow lights or place them in indirect or filtered sun. Do not put them in direct sun because that will burn them up. If you are going to put them in the sun, turn them every day saw that they will grow straight.

The second set of leaves that a plant grows are its true leaves. As soon as they appear, it's time to plant them into bigger pots. Since these are temporary pots, you can use margarine containers. Poke holes in the bottom and use the lids as trays.

When your plants have three or four rows of leaves and are a few inches high, they are ready to be hardened off. Now is the time to get them accustomed to the weather, sunlight, or lack of sunlight.

When the temperature outside reaches about 65 to 70 degrees, place your containers outside in a shady area or a few hours. Each day, leave them out a little bit longer, then began to move them into the sunlight. They will soon be ready to plant.

Layering

Layering is very time consuming but also very reliable. It is done in the summer using low growing herbs. Choose an outer branch of the plant and strip it of its leaves near the base. Do not cut this branch, but press it into the soil next to the plant. Secure it down by pinning it down with a U-shaped wire.

Once the new plant is established, cut the connection to the original plant and then transplant.

Division

This method is best done in early spring. Herbs will have underground roots, bulbs or tubers. Carefully dig up your herb. Cut or separate the clump into smaller sections, about the size of your fist, with a knife. Immediately replant into the ground or in pots.

Stem Cutting

Stem cutting is best done in spring or late summer. Mature stems should be about three to four inches long and have no blooms. Strip leaves from the stem bottom, dip in water, and then in rooting hormone. Set in a pot containing rooting medium, water well and cover with a plastic bag.

Make sure the plastic bag doesn't touch the plant by inserting popsicle stick or pencil and propping the plastic bag on top of them. Again, you can use plastic margarine containers for the pots.

When your plant develops new growth you know that the roots have developed. Then, you can remove the plastic bag, water normally, harden off, and plant.

Root Cuttings

In the spring, carefully dig up a portion of an established plant and remove a root. Cut this root into 2 inch pieces. Fill a pot with a mixture of one part sand and one part peat moss and place the root section into it.

Cover with 1 inch of the mixture. Moisten with a mist and place a plastic bag over the top preserve humidity. Place the pot in indirect sun and keep moist. When you see sprouts, remove the plastic bag and water normally until the cutting is big enough to plant outside.

For more information on Herb Gardening visit GuideForGardeners.com, a website that provides tips and information on all types of gardening.

Herbs Are Easy To Grow!

Want to grow your own produce but don't have much time or experience? Then a herb garden could be the answer. With very little space or expertise you can cultivate sweet smelling, pretty plants that give your cooking or well being a lift, all year round.

Herb gardens have been popular in the UK since Roman times in private plots, monastery gardens and of course the kitchen gardens of great houses and castles. The plants were grown not only for culinary purposes but also for medicinal, cosmetic and symbolic reasons and to create soothing aromatic areas for relaxation and contemplation.

Its good to start with some perennial, evergreen herbs such as sage, thyme, bay and rosemary. These will not only flavour your roasts and casseroles throughout the year but will give a good visual structure to your layout. You should then decide which herbaceous perennials you'd like. These include chives, fennel and tarragon. They will die down during the winter, leaving empty spaces, but will reappear in the Spring and grow throughout the Summer.

Then there are biennials such as parsley and angelica which have a two year growing period, and lastly the annuals which can be showy but only last a year. Amongst the annuals are basil, rocket, coriander, chervil and borage.

There are all sorts of interesting inspirations for herb garden design. For instance a "pizza garden" concentrates on Italian cooking - with marjoram, basil, bay and rosemary prominent. If you enjoy traditional English cooking you will want parsley, rosemary, sage and thyme. For those who love French cuisine sorrel, tarragon, sage and chives would be the main focus. Or if you can't choose, then divide up the herb garden into global zones - include coriander, thai basil and pak choi for oriental cooking and chilli peppers for a Mexican flavour.

A modern choice is to grow a bed of edible flowers. Celebrity chefs are increasingly encouraging us to add flowers to salads, cakes and desserts - just make sure you check that whatever flowers you plant are in fact edible. Nasturtiums and lavender are well known choices.

Alternatively you may want to highlight herbs used for medicinal purposes or those that children will enjoy growing, such as colourful nasturtiums. Or maybe you want a herb garden to produce your own pot pourri or cosmetics.

Of course whatever design you come up with, you will have to make sure it is a sensible choice for your particular garden. The best site for any herb garden is one in full sun with shelter from wind. This can be provided by a fence, hedge or wall. Also, get an idea of your soil type and how fertile it is. It's worth preparing the soil and improving its general fertility before planting it up. As for location, if you're planting a herb garden for use in the kitchen, you will use it most if it's near your backdoor.

Herbs tend to require quite a bit of looking after especially in the summer when many need regular watering, especially if planted in pots which can dry out very easily. And regular picking will encourage new strong growth and maintain the shapes of your plants. Try and pick evenly from the plants so that there is a balance of use - the plants will benefit. If you are planting herbs with edible leaves then it's important to pick flowering stems and buds as soon as they appear, to encourage the plant to keep producing the leaves that you want. At flowering, and after flowering the essential oil content of the leaves is reduced, making them less palatable.

Growing herbs is rewarding and satisfying and if you're a keen cook it is handy to have herbs readily available. They can be grown in pots or flower beds, so make some space for them and start cultivating.

Expert gardener India Cooper explores the rewarding activity of growing herbs awakening the gardener in each of us. To find out more please visit http://www.ratedpeople.com/find/gardener

Thursday 6 March 2008

Organic Herb Gardening

The secret to organic herb gardening, like growing anything else organically, is understanding how the plants grow and what they best need to thrive. Giving them plenty of care and attention is also very important.

Most herbs are hardy and easy to grow, and whether you grow them indoors or in the garden there is no need for pesticides. This is the last thing you want on your food or medicine and even non-organic gardeners would be very unlikely to spray chemicals all over a plant that they were planning to consume. Rich, fertile soil incorporating compost from your compost pile is the best bed for herbs.

A mixed herb border is best to prevent large scale pest attacks. Small and mixed is a better principle for an organic garden than regimented rows or large areas of just one plant. If you are growing in pots, place pots of different herbs together.

Choose herbs for your organic garden not only on the basis of taste for your kitchen, but on which herbs will grow well with your other plants. In many cases herbs are consistently found with certain other plants in the wild and giving them the same companions in your garden will help to keep them healthy and prevent pest attacks. For example, parsley grows well with tomatoes and asparagus. But do not plant dill near potatoes or cabbage - they are incompatible.

Growing herbs in containers is a good way to test the best position for each plant before settling on a spot. Plants that are native to your local area or very common, may thrive anywhere in your garden but others may need particular sunny or shaded spots. Pots are also good for restraining very invasive herbs such as mint, which will pop up everywhere if not controlled. Mint spreads by root just below the surface so you can plant the pot if you wish.
You can begin your herbs either from seed or with a small growing plant from a good organic nursery. If growing from seed, most herbs should be started in containers indoors. However, fennel and cilantro (coriander) do not like being transplanted and will generally be better from seed sown directly outdoors.

Most herbs prefer a sunny situation and well drained soil. If you have clay soil, you can improve the drainage by digging in compost or humus.

Generally herbs are less prone to pest attacks than many plants. The main pests to watch out for are aphids and red spider mite. Either of these can be washed off with soapy water. Don't forget to use organic soap! Growing nasturtiums in your herb bed will help to control aphids, as will encouraging ladybugs in your garden.

Red spider mite is more serious. Affected leaves or even whole plants should be removed immediately and destroyed (preferably burned). Do not put them into your compost. If red spider mite is a problem in your area, put a bug screen over your plants, as these pests are usually carried in by bees and other insects. Alternatively, you can introduce predators - other mites that will feed on the red spider mites without damaging your plants.

Do not over-water herbs as they approach harvest time. The flavor will be stronger if they are kept a little dry. However, once picked it is better to freeze rather than dry them to maintain their flavor.

The best time to pick herbs is when their essential oil is strongest - on a sunny day, around mid-morning. Then you will appreciate the pleasure of organic herb gardening!

Sunday 2 March 2008

Herb Container Gardener

One way you can spice up the flavor in your food is by taking up the fast growing hobby of container gardening and by growing your very own herbs so that you can add it to your foods which will give it a very strong flavor. This is the process of known as herb container growing. Freshly grown herbs have the most intense flavor that will make your oridinary foods have a strong sensation to it. This strong intense flavor is practically matchless the type of dried or even fresh herbs within the supermarket can compare to the taste of the container grown ones. However, because of the high prices of herbs, why don’t you do something economically and also good for making your foods taste better?

Why not try and grow your very own herbs? They can also make your meals taste better, but they also have many other benefits such as adding a strong aroma to your house and making it smell better, but also they can be used to make your house look more visually appealing because they are beautiful plants. So as you can see, there are many benefits involved with the panting herbs, so let’s learn how you can get started with this method right away. The first step that you should take when trying to start container herb gardening is to find the appropriate container for your herbs. Since these are relatively small plants, it doesn’t require too much space within a container. Usually, something like a small ceramic container will do. You can use plastic if you want, but be aware that since the material used is so low quality, it is easy for the container to get damaged. So, that’s why I would recommend going with the ceramic type of container. It’s also important that the herb have large enough draining holes because if the roots become too wet, then the plant can weaken and die which is not what you want.

Next, when choosing the appropriate herbs to grow within your container garden, make sure to choose the ones that you prefer to eat. Some good herbs to start out growing include thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, and sage. These types of herbs grow slow but steady. Once that is done, you will then need to purchase the appropriate seeds for your herbs and start to plant them. Make sure to choose a high quality pot soil to grow your herbs, and make sure to give it plenty of sunlight and water.

Friday 15 February 2008

Where to buy herbs

There are some great resources for buying your herb seeds on line or by mail. Some of these companies also have starter plants you can order during seasonal weather. These are companies which have been in business for many years. Their reputation has been built on supplying only the best herbs and plants to the customer. You can rest assured you will be completely satisfied with what you order from these companies.

This company has been in business since 1969. They specialize in herbs. Some of them are very hard to find. The fantastic thing about their catalog is it has uses for the herbs they sell. You can order plant plugs from this company, as well. I have personally ordered from them and have never had any problems. You can get carried away by the selection Richter's offers. There are also growing supplies and some awesome books available too.

This is another very good company. They offer a wonderful variety of seeds for the home gardener. Johnny's also caters to the commercial grower. They do carry a line of organic products for the garden. They do carry a good supply of seed starter supplies.

Sand Mountain offers an extensive list of herbs both for cooking and medicinal use. The list is long and covers everything. If you want a wide variety to choose from, then Sand Mountain is the place to go.

This company has one of the largest selections of herbs that I have ever seen besides Richter's. You can find the descriptions of the plants, the growing season, and the uses for all the herbs they carry. The catalog is full of information for the home grower. This is actually a wonderful catalog for the beginner herbalist.

There are times when the conditions we live in are just not right for growing every herb. This can cause for some disappointment but there is a solution. Many companies offer a wide variety of dried herbs to further enjoy your culinary experience.

You can order in bulk from some of the companies listed. Most of these companies also offer a variety of medicinal herbs as well as essential oils. There is a great demand for the herbs because of the herbal remedies now being made known to the public. People are finding herbs can replace some over the counter medications and are considered much safer than the actual medicines.

Here are just a few of the companies which offer quality dried herbs.

Established in 1973, this company is the leader in the industry for their selection of dried herbs. San Francisco Herb offers herbs for culinary, potpourri, and medicinal use. They have loose teas and packaged. There are spice blends for cooking, pickling, barbecuing, and all sorts of culinary experiences.

You can order bulk spices from Monterey Bay. There are supplies for potpourri as well. You can find many different teas and spices in the pages of their catalog. Among other things, this company also has storage jars to keep your dried herbs fresh.

This company offers herbs and spices from all around the world. They have seasonings and blends for every culinary taste. You can order anything from allspice to vanilla pods. The selection is actually a little overwhelming. If you cannot find it here, you most likely will not find it at all.

Monday 4 February 2008

Herb Garden Planting & Propogating

There's not enough space here to be all-inclusive, but the tips below will give you a basic idea of what will be involved. As always, jot down questions and take them to your library, extension agent or trusted gardening expert.

Once you've selected your herbs and designed your garden, it's time to grow your garden! Don't start planting just yet though. While herbs are very easy to grow, they do require good drainage. Here is one way to test the drainage of your soil:

  1. Dig a hole the size of a gallon milk jug (in your target site).
  2. Fill with water, allow to drain, and immediately refill.
  3. If the water takes more than 8 hours to drain, the soil's drainage needs improvement. Here's one way you can do that:

Remove the soil to a depth of about 2 feet or so. Line the excavation with a
3-inch layer of crushed stone or similar material. Add to the soil you removed, either compost or sphagnum peat and sand. Refill the beds (a bit higher to allow for settling).

Another drainage problem solution is create raised beds for your herbs, using lumber, bricks or such. Railroad ties and other treated wood may leach creosote into your plants.

While most biennials are sown directly in the ground in late spring, after danger of frost has passed, most of the other herbs can be started indoors in seedling trays about 6 weeks before planting time. Once seedlings develop two pairs of true leaves, they are transplanted to individual containers and placed in a cold frame or protected area to allow for acclimation to the cooler temperatures.

When you transplant, dig the hole, loosen any roots on the plant that are tightly wound, and set the plant into the hole so that the plant is at the same level as it was in the pot. The soil should just reach the crown of the plant, the area between the roots and the stem. Firm the soil around the plant and water thoroughly.

Invasive herbs such as mints will take over your garden given half the chance. To contain these, plant them in large coffee can that have several punched into them just above their bottom rims. Clay pots also work. Sink these into the ground, and your other plants should be safe for several years.

Remember to mulch so that you don't have to spend much time weeding.
Go very easy on the fertilizer. Too much weakens the herbs' oils that provide the flavor, fragrance and other desirable qualities.

If the rainfall is insufficient, water with soaker hose or drip irrigation so that the water goes to the roots rather than encouraging the roots to stay near the surface. In general, herbs require only about 1 inch of water per week

As your herbs grow, various sizes of stakes will be needed. Choose colors that blend into the garden. Bamboo and small branches can be used. The least conspicuous support is a metal ring with a grid inside, supported by three stakes because the plant eventually covers this.

After two or three years, the perennials can be propagated by dividing large clumps and replanting. However, they can be also propagated by layering any time of the growing season. To layer, bend a young, low-growing stem to the ground, anchoring it there. Once new roots develop, cut the new plant from its parent. There are other layering methods too you can learn about through research. Propagating the herbs in your garden will save lots of money on new seeds or new plants.

Herb Garden Design

In this section, we'll discuss the various types of herb gardens and other optional homes for your herbs, and then leave you with some tips for planning and preparing the site.

One of the first things to decide upon when planning your herb garden is the
size. Plan for more space than you will initially use (those extra spaces can be mulched to inhibit weed growth) because you can save lots of money by going slowly -- propagating from seeds you collect from your mature plants, and using cuttings, division and layering. Also, as mentioned in Part 1, you may want to add different types of herbs later as your knowledge and interest grows.

Another thing to consider -- will you want strictly herbs in your herb garden?
Many herbs are beautiful in early summer but rather scraggly looking for the rest of the season. So if appearance is important, you can intersperse the herbs with other plants.

The herb garden may be as formal or informal as you like. Below is a small sampling of options (for thousands of visuals, search Google Images):

Formal Herb Gardens are composed of a series of well-balanced, but not identical, beds. The herbs, often grown in rows, are arranged by height, foliage color, and/or use. Wide paths separate the beds, creating a sense of spaciousness. Statuary, topiaries and container-grown plants appoint these gardens.

Here are two examples of formal gardens:

Circular: This is sectioned like a pie, with each slice filled with herbs and separated by a pathway (made of anything from brick to gravel). A sundial, statue, water fountain or other focal point stands in the center.

Knot: Carried over from the 16th century, the plants (usually herbs) create intricate, geometric designs within a square or rectangle knot. Compact, low-growing herbs work best.

Informal options include:

Kitchen garden: This is generally a small garden with culinary herbs grown within a convenient distance from the kitchen. The kitchen garden may include other herbs as well, such as for teas and extracts.

Container Garden: This is a good option when yard space is limited (or the home is only temporary). The herbs can be grown in a variety of containers arranged in an attractive display on a patio, deck, walkway or balcony.

Landscape Enhancement: Herbs can be used as attractive and fragrant groundcovers, and taller herbs can be arranged with various plants.

Raised Beds: This is a great option when there's poor drainage, but as you will see in Part 3, it's not the only option. Raised beds can be created to be very attractive.

When considering how you will grow your herbs, keep these facts in mind:

Contrasting textures, colors, shades and shapes creates an intriguing effect,
although just as with interior design, this is not necessary for an attractive arrangement.

Edging the herb garden adds definition, making the garden look like it belongs
in the landscape.

A bench, sundial, or other object can add an attractive focal point that creates a unified effect.

Since the afternoon sun is strongest, most herbs in northern climates will appreciate exposure to afternoon sun, while in the south, most herbs benefit afternoon shade.

The site must be well drained. If it's not, you will need to use either raised beds or replace about 2 feet of soil with organic matter (more on this in Part 3).

Annual herbs often require more water than perennial herbs; watering will be easier if you group plants accordingly.

Now that you have lots to think about, it's time to start jotting down your ideas and researching the herbs you want. Once you've decided on the type of herb garden you want, sketch it out on paper. Using abbreviations, pencil in what will go where while taking into consideration the design elements and growing requirements mentioned above, as well as staging (shorter plants in front, taller towards the back), grouping of plants (such as by watering, sun or shade requirements), color and succession of flowering.

Tuesday 8 January 2008

Creating Your Own Herb Garden

To think of walking in an herb garden, with the delicate scents wafting up with each step is something out of a fairy tale. You can create your own fairy tale setting right in the back yard.

There are so many things to consider when you decide to plant an herb garden. The first is location. You need to remember that most of the plants in this garden are going to be used in the kitchen. The best place to put them would be by the kitchen.

It is always best to choose a section in the yard close to the door. You may want to have the fresh herbs available for cooking but easy access is always a key role in how many of them actually make it to the stewing pot. When the herbs are right within walking distance of the kitchen you are more likely to run out and pick a few leaves to use. If you have to go all the way to the back of the yard, you may not feel so inclined to add that particular flavoring to your dish.

You do not need acres of land to have a fantastic herb garden. You can have more than enough space for the most common herbs in a five foot square area. You must remember the fact that herbs tend to spread rapidly when growing. You can start out with five feet and within a few short months have the entire section full.

A sunny location is a good choice for your herb garden. One that gets partial shade in the afternoon is best. Herbs love the sun, but too much can make them wither or sprout up and go to seed quickly. Once an herb goes to seed, it can become woody. However when you do not allow the plant to have the light of the full sun, you can have spindly little plants. This is not what you want in an herb garden.

Along with proper growth is the essential oils that give the herbs their wonderful flavors and aromas. In the full sun the plants are able to develop luscious green foliage and intense oils. The flavors will come bursting out when you use them in the kitchen.

The bottom line to choosing where your garden is going to go is location, location, location. The right one will make all the difference.

You will find that because most natural herbs were once weeds, and in some cases still considered as such, they will grow in almost any soil. You must remember that they are plants and as such must be treated accordingly. You should use a natural fertilizer if you can. The herbs like to have a more neutral type of soil. Just by adding some dead leaf compost and tilling it under when planting can make the herb garden grow better than ever.

The better quality of the soil, the better your herb garden will grow. However, most herbs will grow anywhere. As a matter of fact, you may find they will grow right out of the nice bed you have prepared for them and into the lawn. There is an actual benefit to this; the smell is fantastic when you are mowing the lawn. Just walking past and brushing up against the fragrant leaves releases a wonderful aroma into the air.

The main problem many new gardeners face is what to plant and what to leave out. It is not advisable to try every herb all at once. The best way to enjoy your culinary garden is to choose four or five hardy varieties of an herb you will use in the kitchen. This will allow you to get started with the basics of growing an herb garden. It is a great experience which you will be able to enjoy year 'round.

Some of the more hardy varieties include basil, oregano, and mint. Most herbs are hardy enough to be grown anywhere in the country. There are some which are only going to grow in the more tropical climates. You should check the hardiness zones of the plants you want to grow before you purchase them. This can save you from disappointment.

Growing your herb garden is not hard at all. Most of the herbs tend to themselves.

When you finally decide on a sunny area for the garden, make sure it is tilled up smoothly. The rich dirt can be bolstered with nutrients if you like. A standard garden fertilizer is all you need.

You can either start the plants in the house during the winter, six weeks before the last frost, or you can sow the seeds directly into the ground. You must make sure if you start the seeds in the house, the plants are hardy and can take being transplanted.