Growing Herbs

The key to a good herb garden is drainage and lots of sun.  Raised beds are an excellent place to grow your herbs because you can mix the soil with a sandy soil mix and allow for better drainage.   Do use your fertilizers sparingly because high levels of fertilizer can reduce flavor.  

Among the easiest perennial herbs to grow are rosemary and chives.  Tips: 

1.  Rosemary can grow 4 ft high and can be cut back and used not only in cooking but can be placed in the house around your pet area or trash can to freshen the air.
 



2.  Chives are much smaller, tubular grass-like plants that can be diced and used as an ingredient for fish, potatoes, soups and other dishes. Chives have insect-repelling properties that can be used in gardens to control pests

Oregano and Sage are also perennial and easy to grow.  Thyme does not tolerate the summer humidity and may need to be replanted every few years.

Mint is another perennial option but it is very invasive and should be planted in a contained area such as a planter or large pot so that the spreading roots will be contained.  

Basil, dill, parsley and cilantro are annual herbs.   They will live one season and need to be replanted each year.  Tips:

1. Basil is our favorite herb to plant and will thrive in the warm weather. We use basil all summer in bruschetta and then freeze the leaves in snack bags to use through the winter for soups, stews and Italian dishes.  
2. Dill, parsley and cilantro grow best in the spring and fall.   If you are trying to grow them in the summer, place in a pot so that you can move them out of the full summer sun.