Herbs can be a lovely addition to the outdoor landscape, whether they are planted for their aesthetic quality, their pleasing aromas or their culinary and medicinal benefits. Gardeners who plant a herb garden are also delighted to find that the majority of these plants are easy to grow and thrive with very little tending. With the wide variety of plants available today, gardeners find that they can find a beautiful collection for their garden beds, rock gardens or patio containers. If you would like to plant a herb garden but are unsure where to begin, we have the necessary steps to create a lovely collection of herbs that you can enjoy all year long.

When to Plant an Herb Garden

The first step will be determining the right time of the year to plant a herb garden. While the summer growing season is usually peak time for outdoor herbs, plants can also thrive indoors on a sunny windowsill all year long. You can even transfer your indoor plants outdoors in the summer so they can thrive to their fullest potential. Many gardeners get a head start on their outdoor gardens by starting seeds indoors in the late winter months. Check seed packets to determine if the plants you choose can be successfully transplanted once the danger of frost has passed.

Where to Plant a Herb Garden

You can plant a herb garden in just about any sunny spot outdoors, from a traditional garden bed to a decorative rock garden. Herbs can be planted in tidy rows or in an ornamental pattern that is both fragrant and beautiful. Before you plant a herb garden, take a few days to observe the space to ensure that it receives adequate sun. You will also want to ensure that irrigation will not be a problem by placing the garden close to a water source. Finally, if you will plant a herb garden for culinary purposes, placing the garden close to the house will make it easy to step outside to clip a few sprigs for dinner.

What to Plant

There are many different types of herbs to choose from when you plant a herb garden, from culinary herbs like basil and oregano to medicinal herbs such as lavender and chamomile. The choice of plants is up to your individual preference and the types of herbs available in your area. Most herbs are fairly easy to grow and will thrive in nearly any climate zone. However, if you have questions about specific plants that will do well in your area, you can contact a local garden center or extension office for more information.

If you want to plant a herb garden, you will be pleased to know that you have a variety of plants to choose from that are easy to grow in just about any environment. Check out the choices in herb plants in your area and enjoy fresh herbs on your table all year long.