At some point in your life as an herb gardener, you're going to get right down to ground level, and even below it! But for this article, we're going to stay up a little higher and take a wider look at herb gardening. It appears that mankind has used herbs for as long as history has been recorded, and archeologists have found evidence of herbs being placed in the tombs of well-to-do or important individuals, attesting to the value placed on the plants.
Today gardeners still enjoy the many benefits of growing and using their own herbs. Some are grown as flavorings. Others for the scent they lend to home-made potpourri. For teas, for medicinal purposes or even for control of pests, herbs are planted, nurtured and put to use for many different reasons.
Not only are the uses for a herb garden varied, but so is their form. A gardener may plant for a very specific reason and purpose, or for a wide intent. He or she might choose to introduce a few herbs into the family vegetable garden, or create a separate garden for herbs alone.
Herbs can occupy almost any space for growing. A full outdoor garden or a small plot (you don't need a lot of space to enjoy your herb garden). A few pots on the deck, a window planter or even some indoor containers in the kitchen, front room, or unused corner of a sunlight bedroom can all be welcome homes for herbs. Many gardeners will have both indoor and outdoor locations and enjoy their gardens year round.
Herbs prefer well-drained soil. If your soil is more clay-like, add compost, peat moss or even potting soil, and work it in well to loosen up the native soil. Outdoor herbs, planted in good soil, probably won't need fertilizer, but you might have to supplement potted plants.
Most herbs enjoy full sun, but like all plants, each have their preferences and you'll need to research each plant to find out how much light, or shade, it prefers or can tolerate.
Herbs are quite resistant to diseases and insect infestations but not totally immune. Keep an eye out for aphids, spider-mites, rust and some forms of mold.
You can buy starter herb plants, from the nursery, and put them into your garden, or you can start with seeds yourself. Be aware, though, that some herbs are much more difficult than others to start from a seed.
When planting from seeds, do so in light, shallow soil. Generally speaking, the finer the seed the shallower it should be planted. Many gardeners will start their seeds, indoors, in late winter to be ready for transplant outdoors in the spring. Be aware that you may not have success transplanting certain herbs (dill, for example, or coriander). Wait until you can get outside and seed these in your garden or outdoor containers directly.
Regardless of whether you start with seeds or seedlings, you'll find growing and caring for your herbs, and finally harvesting them and putting them to use, to be a very satisfying experience -- so much more so than simply running to the store for a bundle of herbs.
Whether you're just "putting in a few things" to test the waters, or you want to dive whole-heartedly into your herb gardening experience, it's always a good idea to seek the advice of experts to learn what you can expect and to get yourself off to the proper start.
There are many different sources of information, including our website, that you can access as you prepare. The staff at your local nursery can be extremely helpful, and they'll be able to advise you well for your particular climate. If you have a community garden in your area, you can seek the advice of other like-minded gardeners. Although many will guard their secrets closely, most will be happy to talk with you and share their experiences.
Whatever form your herb garden takes, as a start, and in the years to come, I wish you all the best and the greatest of success in your endeavors with herbs.
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