What an intriguing history herbs have! I'll bet you are aware that herbs were used by the ancient Chinese, but did you know that there are also references to the use of herbs in the Bible AND the use of herbs by the ancient Egyptians?
The long list of uses for herbs includes adding extra zest and flavor to food and drinks, making potpourri, brewing delicious teas, medicinal preparations, and even controlling pests in your garden. Herb gardens can be specialized in favor of one of these purposes or a mixture for several purposes. It is hard not to find a great reason to grow herbs!
Having a garden full of beautiful, healthy, fragrant herbs is a great idea and the garden can be in your backyard or even in your kitchen. Another great benefit is that herbs combine well with many other plants inside or outside.
Preparing an area approximately four feet by six feet may well be sufficient for your small family's outdoor garden. Beyond the usefulness of herbs, the aromatic scents as well as the beautiful flowers many of them produce give you ample reasons to include several of them in your garden.
Culinary herbs are commonly used in cooking to help bring out the flavors of the food. Both fresh and dried herbs can be used to enhance the flavor of a dish or drink. And, of course, fresh herbs are often used as garnishes to help you deliver an awe-inspiring presentation of your culinary talents.
There is a large family of herbs to choose from. As with other plants, some are perennials, some are annuals, some are shrubs and some are even trees. Herbs should be planted in healthy soil that has good drainage and organic products can be added if you find your soil is heavy or compacted. You may not need to add fertilizer.
In selecting the best locations for your herbs, keep in mind that most herbs prefer a sunny location, although a few prefer full shade. Many herbs grow well with afternoon shade, so if you have more afternoon shade, that's okay too. Herbs are very hardy and there are not many insects or diseases that will bother them. Low-growing herbs can have red spider mites in dry, hot weather and anise, dill, caraway and fennel may attract aphids. Interestingly, mint can be affected by rust.
It's a great idea to buy herbs from your home and garden store or local nursery that are ready for you to plant. However, if you want to enjoy the entire growth cycle, buy the seeds of the herbs you have selected and plant them yourself. Growing your own herbs from seeds is more work, but very rewarding. If you choose to plant your own seeds, there are a few things you should know first. Around late winter, in a shallow box or a pot, you can plant your seed in well-drained soil. Remember to plant your herbs shallow, since most do not have a deep root base. Then remember the rule "the finer the seed, the shallower it should be sown." When spring arrives, the seedlings can then be transplanted outdoors (with a few exceptions that will be covered later.)
Having an herb garden in your own home is not only fun and easy but definitely worth your time. Just as if you were planting any other type of plant, there are some general rules and guidelines that should be followed, and we have touched on some of them in this article. Keep reading and you will find all of the information you need right here. Let the journey begin!
