Herb Garden Information You Should Know
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010
by Sarah Phillips
HerbGardeningCentral.com
References to herbs can be found in the writings of the ancient Egyptians and Chinese. The Bible mentions herbs in several places and we know from historical documents that most households used herbs in medieval times.
Herb growing is beneficial, for several reasons, to gardeners. The many uses of herbs include:
1) To flavor food,
2) Potpourri,
3) Tea,
4) Medicinal purposes, and,
5) Control garden pests.
When a gardener wants flexible control over the garden herbs play a star role allowing for an indoor container garden or outdoor garden plot. When planning for size first determine the expected herb use in both purpose and quantity. For most small families a four by six foot garden plot is large enough to meet the need yet small enough to be cared for easily.
Culinary herbs are made popular in the use in cooking making these types the most well known of the herbs. However, many gardeners prefer herbs with beautiful flowers or aromatic foliage. No matter the gardeners preference herbs can be used fresh or dried. In cooking herbs provide a supporting role to many main ingredients. Chefs have used dill with fish, as an example, for generations because it pairs so well. Other herb types are used as a garnish for the salad or plate.
When planning the herb garden be aware that herbs grow, like all other plants, as annuals, perennials, shrubs, or trees. The type will obviously make a difference in choosing a location. Herbs prefer well-drained soil. If the outdoor soil is heavy or compacted add organic matter, sand, or a combination. Outdoors fertilizers are usually not necessary. However, sun is necessary; most types of herbs prefer plenty of sun, with only a few thriving in full shade. Read much on the type of herb you want to plant. Some prefer morning sun and afternoon shade.
Interestingly, herbs have few disease or insect enemies (some herbs are known for their pest control properties). When the weather becomes hot and dry red spider mites can be found on some low-growing plants. Aphids may infest anise, caraway, dill, or fennel. Mint is sometimes affected by rust.
In addition to buying seedlings from the local nursery, gardeners can also start herbs from seed. Watching a plant grow from a tiny seed is fascinating. Its entire life-cycle can be observed, and much can be learned from this process. Enjoy the gratification of using herbs you started, and nurtured, from seed. Fortunately, most herbs can be grown from seed successfully.
Start with a light, well-drained soil in a shallow pot or box and plant your seed in there in late winter. Shallow planting is best because herbs do not have deep roots. Usually the smaller the seed the more shallow it should be planted.
Transplant the new seedlings to your outdoor garden in the spring. Research each herb choice well as some do better when planted directly in the garden. Anise, fennel, coriander, and dill, for example, do not do well when transplanted, so sow your seed directly in the garden.
An herb garden, grown at home, is easy and simple, and extremely rewarding. Learn all you can about herbs in general, and specifically about your herb choices. Pick up one the informative eBooks about successful herb gardening and discover the gardening secrets known for years by herb gardening enthusiasts. Good Luck!
Sarah Phillips is an herb gardening enthusiast who enjoys helping others get started in this wonderful hobby.
You can discover more herb garden information by clicking here.
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