Whether you
are intent on growing an herb garden indoors or
outdoors, this is a super way to combine cooking and
gardening. Fresh, pungent herbs added to your
favorite recipes is satisfying both taste-wise and
money-wise--and you will know your herbs are free of
chemicals and pesticides.
Herbs need at
least 4 hours of direct sunlight a day, so if
indoors, choose a sunny window. You may need to
supplement the sun with a fluorescent light, so plan
for that. Ventilation is also helpful, as is keeping
a pretty constant temperature.
Choose herbs
you know you will use in your cooking or your
pouporri, but don't discount the beauty or look of
your garden. Sometimes a herb can just be there to
be pretty or give off a great aroma. Of course, if
you are growing outside, you should check your
gardening zones and make sure you are not planting
something that won't like the climate you are in.
Make sure you
use pots that are large enough for your herbs to
spread out and feel comfy in. They will need good
drainage, too. Putting herbs together in one large
pot is always fun, just make sure everyone has ample
room--about 6-8 inches between plants. You can use
pottery shards or gravel in the bottom of the
containers. If planting outside, make sure the soil
will drain well. Herbs like a regular, good watering
once or twice a week. Don't over water, they usually
like to be almost dry before having another drink.
They also appreciate a good feeding during the
growing season, and of course, your should stick to
organic food for them.
Herbs are
usually pest free and actually are helpful in
deterring pests from other plants in a garden.
Remember, if you are going to pop them into your
meal, you don't want chemicals on them, so control
pests--if you do get them--in a safe way. Usually a
rinsing with a mild dish detergent and water spray
will control pests if you do happen to get them.
Harvest by
just clipping off what you need, when you need it.
Clipping off the leaves usually promotes thicker
growth. Watch our video selection for help!
Down 2 Earth Gardens
