Herbs are perhaps one of my favorite plants to grow. They are easy, useful, and beautiful. They make the perfect addition to any flower bed or vegetable garden.
I use fresh and dried herbs in many of the soaps, lotions, and salves that I make. When any of us cook here we use very little salt and flavor with our herbs. It makes the need for salt so much less and the food taste so much better. I also make herbal teas and herbal tea jellies from them as well.
What are your favorite herbs to grow?
I currently have the following growing:
- Lavender
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Oregano
- 3 different kinds of mint
- Lemon Balm
- Tarragon
- Chives
- Basil
- Sage
- Parsley
- Dill
- Lemon Grass
- Bee Balm
Right now things are still in pots, in the greenhouse or have actually made it to the herb garden. We have so many projects going on at one time that it is just plain crazy here some days. I am very proud of the fact that I was able to start most from seed instead of buying plants. For the first time I have actually grown lavender and rosemary from seed. I think having the little greenhouse is the key to that.
If you don’t have a greenhouse or are a beginner with growing herbs I recommend purchasing plants or herb growing kits. The beauty of herbs is that they do not have to take up a lot of space and they will grow in most well drained soil. I have successfully grown them as container plants, window sill gardens, and in the soil.
The amount of sunlight needed varies between plants but I have noticed over the years that if you plant the larger plants to the back of your garden and then move forward to your smaller and annual plants you have much more success. They definitely need to have water, the soil should always at least feel damp to the touch. A nice rich compost mulched around the base of the plants ensures proper nutrients and moisture.
Enjoy your herbs, one of the most versatile plants on earth.
Light, Love, and Peace
Tammy ~SSM~
