Growing herbs can be an easy process and the results can be used to add flavor to meals, make soothing and relaxing teas or for making fragrant sachets, potpourri, scented candles and oils. Following some simple steps can lead to a successful and rich harvest when you are growing herbs.

Where to Plant Growing Herbs

The first step in planning an herb garden is to determine what types of herbs will be grown. Once this has been decided, what section of the yard will be used for growing herbs will be the next decision. If the herbs are to be used in cooking, it is a good idea to have a variety of growing herbs planted nearby so they are easily accessible. If you’re interested in having only one or two growing herbs for cooking or for display and fragrance purposes only, you also have the option of growing herbs indoors.

The Basic Herbs

There are many varieties of herbs and which ones you choose will depend on the type of cooking you do and the flavors you like. The easy growing herbs include thyme, garlic, oregano, basil, dill and chives. Adding a little of lavender, peppermint and chamomile to your herb garden could make delicious teas. wher transplants do not work well it is better to grow these herbs from seedlings. Other types of herbs should be purchased as established plants and then transplanted to your garden.

Growing Herbs in a Garden

One of the most important steps for growing herbs is having proper sunlight for the better part of the day. Sunny areas are best for growing most herbs. The best and easy way to provide nutrition for producing flavoural herbs is to use compost enriched soil. A healthy herb with good taste shows that it has got enough water and sunshine. Water stagnation should not be allowed around the plant. Protect your plants from moisture by covering them all aorund with mulch.  If pests become a problem, use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Do not use pesticides. The point of growing herbs is to have fresh and flavorful varieties straight from your garden without any additives.

Do you want to provide your family with wholesome food and save money in the process? Well growing fresh herbs is the way to create a tasty meal and nutritious meal. The effort is well worth it as it takes very little effort on your behalf in growing the fresh herbs and the rewards of growing culinary herbs in food cannot be beaten.

Growing Fresh Herbs – Your Choice

Start by choosing the herbs you plan to use often if you’re growing fresh herbs for the first time. For example, if Italian cooking is your strong point then oregano would be a good first choice as it complements tomato based recipes. Other herbs to consider would be caraway, parsley and chervil that go well with soups salads and stews. Basil, marjoram and tarragon work with meat dishes while cilantro adds zest to soups and beans. Rosemary and sage add savory flavor to stuffing and chamomile and sweet woodruff make fragrant teas.

Options for Growing Fresh Herbs

Depending on how much time you have and the garden space will dictate what herbs you will want to plant and harvest in your garden. But here are several options for growing fresh herbs.

Your Traditional Garden

If you have space in your back garden for a conventional garden and you have an assortment of different herb plants to grow, then creating a traditional patch in your backyard would be the best way. For convenience sake try and keep the herb garden close to the house so you can step outside and quickly cut some herbs. Make sure the plot is in an area that has direct sunlight and is well-drained.

The Indoor Garden

If you lack space then growing fresh herbs, in an indoor environment, can work well. For an indoor garden you will only be able to grow a few herbs. Make sure that you select a sunny window and a stable windowsill to place them on. Check for pests and water occasionally and the plants should flourish and produce flavorful herbs

The Container Garden

The container garden gives you the option of having a larger quantity of herbs that can be placed outside. The containers only requirement is that they can provide good drainage. This type of garden is considered transportable as the containers used for growing fresh herbs can be moved at any time required. Container gardens are convenient for anyone who does not have the time to keep an actual garden but desires to grow a large amount of herbs.