My Growing Herbs

This is a basic overview for how to grow herbs.  For more details, consult one of the manuals below.

The first element for a successful outdoor herb garden is good soil.  Most home gardening soil can use some improvement, which most beginning gardeners quickly learn.  However, herbs can survive in a wide variety of soil types, so more than likely, you can get started with whatever you currently have to work with.  It is a good idea to get your soil tested to see what it needs to optimize your plants’ growth and production.  Improving your soil is key to the longevity of your outdoor herb garden.

Next, before you start planting your herbs, make a plan to make your garden as attractive as possible.  You may incorporate formal beds or geometric patterns, for example. 

Perennials that double as herbs can be planted in flower beds and as borders.  Some herbs that can be used for decorating, fragrance, or cuisine include:  Bee Balm, Yarrow, and Lady’s Mantle. 

Great herbs to grow for decorative foliage include:  Globe Basil, Bronze Leaf Basil, Perilla, ornamental Sages, Gray Santolina and Lavender.

When planning your garden, think about the overall color scheme.

Be sure to pinch back annual herbs such as Basil to prevent blooming.  If they are allowed to bloom, and channel energy into seed production, the foliage will become less.  Pinching off shoot tips inspires the plant to grow bushier.

Planting extra Parsley, Dill, and Fennel will attract butterflies while still giving you plenty of harvest.

Perennial herbs should be harvested as they develop flower buds.  In cold climates, hardy Perennials will need a break from heavy harvesting at least 45 days before the first frost to prepare for winter.

When planning your garden, make a list of herbs you’ll be using.  Then, jot down relevant information about these herbs, such as soil, light, water needs, as well as height and spread, and any other special notes. 

Next, sketch the gardening area to scale, and decide what goes where. 

When harvesting, remember that as a general rule of thumb, herbs have the highest level of flavor in their leaves just before blooming.  Many perennials need their growing shoots snipped in 4 to 6 inch lengths.  With annuals, collect a few leaves as you need them.

Most importantly, breathe deeply, and have fun gardening!!!