Herbs will be arriving tomorrow, March 12. If you've thought about raising your own herbs but were afraid to try...this is your year! Whether in a bed or in containers... for cooking... or organic health, we have what you need and will be glad to personally answer any questions you have.
Herbs are easy to grow and fun to use. They have a broad array of uses in and out of the kitchen. Most culinary herbs are Mediterranean in origin but many herbs, especially medicinal, are native to the Americas. Make a few special accommodations for your herbs and they will reward you with bountiful harvests and years of enjoyment.
For a successful herb garden you will need the following:
Well-drained soil: A good sandy loam is best. If you have heavy or clay soil, amend it with compost, sand or other soil conditioners. Raised beds can be an easy solution for good drainage. Be creative with your materials, design, and shape.
At least 6 hours of full sun: Unless otherwise noted in the plant descriptions, herbs will be happiest in a full sun location. If you can only give them half a day of sun, morning sun is the best.
Good air circulation: Good air flow through your herb garden will reduce any disease problems so be sure to allow space between the plants for growth.
Mulch: Mulching will keep the roots cooler in the summer, warmer in the winter, and save you lots of weeding and watering! Use rice hulls, pine straw, or other mulch recommended by your nursery.
AVOID OVERWATERING: Most herbs like relatively dry conditions. Once established, most herbs are remarkably drought tolerant. Avoid sprinkler systems, water deeply but infrequently and you will side-step this most common mistake.
Harvesting: Once established, your herbs will be more productive and look nicer with frequent harvesting. Harvest no more than one-third of the foliage. Fresh is best! But drying, freezing, and pestos (not just for basil) are easy and produce great results. Mid-morning harvests provide the best flavor.
Feeding: Most good garden soil will provide enough nutrients for your herbs, If growing in a soil-less mix add slow release fertilizer pellets or se liquid fertilizers at half the recommended rate.
PUT THE SPRAYER AWAY! Herbs have very few pests and many are pest repellents! Grown outside, beneficial will take care of most pests. If a pest problem does develop, use insecticidal soap according to directions. Make sure to coat the underside of the leaves and use during the coolest part of the day.
The next couple of posts will cover specific herbs and uses. Feel free to ask any questions or leave comments about your favorite herbs in the comment section.
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The Park Wife here, glad you came and joined Arkansas Women Bloggers. What part of the state are you in? I am a small farmer, farmers' market manager and think you are going to be my new herb best friend!
ReplyDeleteemail me at buckatwos@gmail.com when you have time.