Tips for Starting an Herb Garden
Herbs are arguably the most important part of having delicious meals and fresh herbs are the best way to enjoy the most powerful flavors. While dried herbs certainly have a place in the kitchen, fresh herbs can really change the way you enjoy your meals. However, purchasing cuttings of fresh herbs can be expensive and they can easily go bad once cut. However, planting your own herbs can provide virtually an endless supply of fresh herbs. The Client team has some tips on how you can start your own herb garden to enjoy your favorite recipes in a whole new way.
Pick a Location
The first step is to decide where you want to place your herb garden. If you live in a warm enough climate, you can have an herb garden outside all year. Some gardeners opt to have their garden inside, near a window that offers adequate light. No matter where you decide to put your garden, it’s best to put it somewhere that you can easily monitor it for pests and other issues. Since you plan on using the herbs for food, you’ll want to be especially careful with these plants.
Choose Your Herbs
Where you place your garden can limit which plants will flourish in your chosen location. If the location is in direct sunlight for most of the day, you’ll want to choose plants that can withstand, or even flourish in the intense light. Plants with tender leaves, like basil, mint, or cilantro will do better in partially shaded areas or inside a window. Also, consider which herbs you use most often or which ones you want to experiment with, in your cooking. If you’re only going to plant a couple of herbs, choose the ones you love most. If you want a variety, select a few that you haven’t ever used.
Herb Gardens as Bug Repellent
Some herbs will naturally help to repel bugs that can be bothersome in the summer months. If you place your herb garden on your back deck or front porch, where you spend more time, you can choose plants like mint, lavender, and rosemary. Those plants will not only improve your meals, but they can make it more enjoyable to eat those meals outside.
Plants vs. Seeds
It may be easier to plant the herbs you want as established plants. If it is early in the season, seeds are less expensive, and you can typically get a large number of plants with a smaller investment. Starting seeds can be easier than you think, but you will need a small container to create a high-humidity environment for the seeds to establish. Once they have sprouted, you can move them to pots in your decided location. If you would prefer to buy plants, you can purchase them from a hardware store, farmers market, or grocery store and plant them wherever you want. Established plants are more ideal for starting an herb garden later in the year.
Use the Herbs Sustainably
It’s important to use the herbs without damaging the plant. When harvested correctly, using the herbs can help the plant grow even larger. Plan your meals strategically so that you don’t harm the plant or overuse it. Each plant will have its own rate of growth and harvesting tolerance, so research the best way to use each plant.
Once you have your garden established, you can enjoy the fresh herbs and elevate your cooking skills. If you’re ready for a fresh, low-pressure car-buying experience, contact the Client team online today or visit our showroom at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516.