Whether you enjoy cooking with fresh herbs or prefer herb gardens for their medicinal qualities, gardening can be a fun, satisfying hobby. Some people also grow herbs for the aromatic pleasure they derive from the plants. These can be used in dried floral arrangements or to make perfumes, candles, etc.
Don't let the word "garden" be overwhelming. You don't necessarily have to plant a large area.
Any gardening project can be as small or large as one wishes. An indoor window herb garden serves many
purposes. The plant display is not only attractive but aromatic and you will have fresh cooking herbs at your disposal.
There is a vast selection that can be planted in your garden. You must decide on the
ones that are right for you depending on your needs. Just like flowers, herbs come as annuals, perennials, and biennials. Aromatic favorites are mint and lavender. There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh mint leaves, which can be added to a cold glass of iced-tea for extra flavor.
Popular culinary herbs include basil, chives, parsley, sage, thyme, and dill. Any cook can appreciate the luxury of going out to a garden and picking fresh herbs to use in his/her favorite dish.
Planting and experimenting with your selections can be fun, so don't limit yourself to a few well-known favorites. These plants thrive in fertile soil that drains well. Grow your herbs in a window-sill or plant them
outdoors. Don't plant the seeds too deeply and make sure you barely cover the seeds. Water plants lightly each day.
At times, aphids and mites can be an annoyance. Herbs are unbelievably, problem free.
Planting near your kitchen door is an excellent way to encourage using the herbs for
cooking and meal preparation. Decide, with your landscaper, on the size garden you want. He or she can consult on soil preparation, the proper location for the herbs to receive sun and protection from wind, and can help choose which plants will be best for your garden.
If you already have a vegetable garden, you could extend it for your herbs. You may want to grow perennial inside and annual herbs outside. An herb garden needs to be well drained. Otherwise, herbs will not flourish in overly wet soil.
Pick your herbs early in the morning, before the sun is shining too brightly. It's easy to become overly eager but waiting will ensure that your plant continues to grow after you pick it's foliage.
Most herbs need to be protected in the winter. For maximum success, buy or visit your local library for books on this subject.
Enjoy the lasting and continuous herbs that will add special flavor to foods and provide aromatic pleasure in your garden and home.
