Getting Started With Herb Gardening

1. Find a sunny spot

A windowsill in the kitchen will do or a greenhouse in the garden. If you live in a warm climate then a sunny spot on the patio is perfect. You can grow herbs in the ground but many people opt for pots placed in a convenient spot to the kitchen. This makes it easy to use for daily cooking and also means that you control the soil completely and it’s easier to keep bad creepy crawlies away.

2. Choose your seeds

You can buy little herb plants ready for planting but it’s much more fun to grow your own from seed and a little cheaper too. If organic herbs are important to you then find seeds from organic suppliers. Otherwise, just choose any variety you’d like.

Basil, parsley, mint, thyme, rosemary, cilantro, bay, and chives are very popular and all easy to grow. Some herbs like thyme, rosemary and bay will thrive anywhere and can grow quite large. Others like basil and mint need a little more sunlight and can be fussier but still aren’t very difficult to grow in the right conditions.

Simply follow the instructions on the packet and you’re set to go. Once your herbs grow it’s important to pick the leaves regularly otherwise the growth may stunt or the leaves may brown. If you see your herbs drying out try keeping them regularly watered. If they are still dry it may be time for a larger container to replant them in. and don’t forget to pick any dry leaves off so that new ones can flourish.

3. Use a natural fertilizer

There are several natural organic fertilizers on the market to help you grow bigger, stronger, tastier herbs. You can use any variety that’s used for vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers and simply add a little to your herb pots. This and regular watering will give you lush, green herbs you can be proud off.

4. Spice up your cooking

Once you’ve grown a variety of gorgeous herbs, make sure you add them to your dishes. Experiment with new flavours and textures and a little of this and a little of that – who knows you may find a winning combination. Herbs really make foods taste better and add a dash of flair to the most basic dishes. By growing your own you can get into the habit of using them in your cooking which means you may be able to reduce the amount of salt in your dishes too – great for your health all around.

And don’t forget that many herbs are packed with nutrients that are fantastic for you and can also be used to make natural home-made teas to cure a host of ailments. Use mint for an upset tummy and to aid with digestion, and parsley as a natural cure to bad breath.

Herbs are fun and easy to grow a sure winner for any kitchen garden.