Grow Your Very Own Herb Garden

By Janette Mae Phillips

If you watch a lot of cooking shows, you have probably seen your favorite host pluck a sprig of thyme or parsley and used that instead of dried spices from a jar. Chefs are on to something in that this is the best way of using spices as nothing gets lost and adulterated while drying or processing. You too can have this fresh herb garden as it is surprisingly easy to do.

Like any living thing, an herb garden requires a consistent effort from you. Don't be turned off though as this entails a sweet reward that will make your efforts all worth it.

If you don't have any open spaces in which you can grow plants. A little kitchen space set aside for this purpose will be enough. Take small containers or flower pots and you're all set. You will soon enjoy the intense flavor of fresh herbs.

Preparation Doing your homework is the first thing you have to do. Know what you need to grow based on your cooking habits. The herbs and spices that you use often should be on your priorities list. Next is know what kind of soil and caring every plant needs. Also know beforehand how big a plant gets. Having something that takes over your entire kitchen is going to be inconvenient.

Choose a good spot for your herb garden, one that gets enough sunlight, and with good soil that drains well.

Prepare the soil for planting. Till it so that it gets loose and also mix in some compost or mulch while you're at it. Stay away from chemical fertilizers as they can affect the taste of your herbs.

All you need to do now is to plant the seeds, water them, an wait for them to sprout and grow. Have patience and you'll be savoring fresh herbs soon enough.

Upkeep Know beforehand any special care that your herbs may require. Don't group plants that require a lot of water with those that need just a little. Monitor the soil conditions and only water when you see a noticeable dryness to the topsoil. Allow excess water to drain. Mind any insects that may decide to take permanent residence in your herb kitchen.

Useful Herbs

Those who love tea can finally make their own. in addition to the kinds of tea you like, you can grow lavender and chamomile. These two herbs can be used to flavor teas in ways that will either perk you up or calm you down. Dill is also a good candidate because of its interesting appearance. In addition to it being an herb, it can double as a kitchen dcor.

Parsley makes a wonderful garnish, while cilantro is used to flavor many kinds of Asian and Mexican food. Oregano is great for Italian food, and basil can be added to most preparations with good results.

Some other herbs that many cooks find useful to create interesting flavors in their food include chives, rosemary, thyme, sweet marjoram, borage, sage, summer savory and lovage.

You can buy seedlings at your local garden center or buy more exotic plants in the form of seed packets. These can be conveniently bought online and will arrive in envelopes with the sachets containing information on how to grow them. There are literally hundreds of herbs and spices to choose from and you'll have a fun time growing and cooking with all of them.

About the Author:

Janette is an experienced household decorator who has written greatly about growing herbs. Her posts feature valuable help and advice regarding things such as kitchen island ideas.