If you’re a foodie who likes their dishes to taste fresh and delicious, then you already know the importance of using herbs in your recipes. What you might not know, however, is just how easy it is to grow fresh herbs from home. Whether you’re growing in pots on your window sill or in a patch of grass out in the yard, growing an herb garden is an easy and rewarding venture when done correctly.
The first and most important step in any gardening process is to decide what you want to grow. For herb purposes, you want to grow something that you’re going to use regularly. If you’re not a big parsley lover, then don’t waste the space here. Grow an herb like rosemary or thyme instead.
Next up on the list, think about where you want to plant and grow the herbs. Remember, herbs don’t take up a lot of room, but they’re still just as susceptible to the pests and elements as any plant. So decide on a safe location where they can grow in peace. Put some effort into picking the best spot here.
You also need to consider the time of year, especially if you’re growing outside. One of the benefits of growing inside is that the weather doesn’t really matter. But if you have herbs outside, you will want to check on each specific varieties’ specs to ensure that they won’t be killed off during a cooler night.
A lot of stores and plant nurseries will have grown herb plants ready to go, so this is always a viable option here. You just have to clip and maintain them. However, you may want to go the seed route and grow your own herbs. It all depends on your level of expertise, whether you trust the growing method, and also what you’re willing to put into the process.
A lot of herbs come in kits. You’ll receive the planters, some food, and a thorough set of instructions. Even if you’re an experienced gardener, you don’t want to gloss over these instructions. You should take them seriously. You never know when you’ve picked up a different type of basil or parsley that needs more water or more pruning to thrive.
Most people who grow herbs tend to grow a few different plants. The odds here suggest that some of your herbs may die. Don’t get too discouraged here and give up. You need to realize that there are literally thousands of unforeseen circumstances which could cause a plant to die, especially a smaller herb plant.
Different herbs should be harvested at different times. Herbs like rosemary and thyme take longer, as you’re using the entire stem, whereas sage, basil and other leafy herbs can be plucked sooner if you just prune off the leaf overgrowth.
Having the right knowledge, the right outlook and the proper motivation can lead to a spectacular herb garden inside or out. Herbs can really spice up any dish, so make sure you’re serious about growing them properly.