Selection of soil plays a vital role in the any form of garden. The soil should be rich in contents required for the growth of different plants. Poor, dry soil is not good for the proper growth of the plants. Unlike most of the plants, herbs are not considered as ornate plants and can grow in majority of the situations and soils. It is a matter of common observation that a moist, deep, rich soil promotes lush foliage growth, but poor dry soil does have affect on the flavor. For instance, most of the Mediterranean herbs grow in arid, dusty and stony soils in their native habitat and are fairly able to deal with the conditions in your garden.
Poor soil gives you poor results. Plants do not grow well in poor, dry soil and they won't be able to deal with frequent harvesting. Therefore, it is necessary to draw a balance between good growth and flavor and rich fertilized soil.
Many herbs rot away rapidly in damp conditions and therefore, required freely drained soils are vital for such herbs. Such soils have the tendency to retain moisture for steady growth. Although, it seems quite complex in the beginning but achieving this combination is not hard to achieve. This mainly depends on a good soil structure, to permit drainage of excess water and some organic matter to act as a sponge to hold back the moisture.
Unlike many other plants, herbs need better soil drainage. Free drainage soil is usually sandy or gritty and is comprised of large soil particles and is best for the growth of herbs. But the heavy, clay soils comprise of tiny particles is so compactly packed that don't allow the water to move freely, thus not recommended for such herbs. To improve the working of the soil, you can add generous amount of organic matter into it; sharp sand is also another handy way to grow herbs. In case you have light, sandy soil, simply include a little amount organic matter that will improve the water retention and prevent the plant food from leaching out of the soil.
Too much of fertilizer is not good for the plants growth, but if the conditions are poor and the soil is dry and dull, it is better to add slight dressing of bone meal. Prepare the bed and set it properly. Bone meal has the tendency to release its nutrients gradually over a period of time and is therefore responsible for a steady supply of food to the herbs and prevents rapid growth.
In normal circumstances, frequent fertilizing is not necessary. But if you experience any difficulties in growing plants due to bad growing conditions such as bad weather or something alike, you can simply use foliar feed sprayed over the plants. This will keep them protected over a period of time and also give them a quick boost.
