When I was younger I read the Little House on the Prairie series and loved reading about how they lived off the land. I had always wanted to have a green thumb, and have beautiful gardens at my house, but sadly I seem to kill plants more than anything. However I think I found an option that may allow me the joy of growing something without running the risk of killing it.
I’m talking about Herbs. We know them, we love them, they are something we all love the taste of, but probably haven’t grown them ourselves. This year I hope to change that. But with any project I had to to some research. What grows best in my area? What would grow well together? Do I start them inside or outside? Containers or raised bed? Seeds or starter plants? All these I needed answers to.
What will grow decently in my area? Where I am located I am in on the edge of Zone 4 and 5. I made a list of the herbs I would want to grow, and they would all grow in my zone, some may required to be brought indoors in the fall. But these are the herbs I would like in my herb garden; Chives, Lavender, French Tarragon, Lemon Balm, Parsley, Oregano, Thyme, Dill, Rosemary, Basil, and Wintergreen.
Will these herbs all grow together well? The answer is yes and no. Confusing right? The rule of thumb is you can grow them together as long as you don’t mix the herbs that like plenty of water, for example chives; with those herbs that like well-drained soil, for example oregano. You can plant them together in pots or in beds if you prefer.
Should I use containers or raised beds or even a garden plot? This is really a matter of preference. Some herbs, mint for example, will take over the area if you don’t keep it in check. Other herbs respect the space they are allowed and don’t bother their neighbors. You will want to make sure you allot for growth of the plant but not have them take over. My plan is to use containers to create my herb garden and make it a display for the front of my yard.
Do I start them inside or outside? Should I use seeds or starter plants? From researching the options out there it was recommended that people purchase starter plants, that are ready to go into the ground. If you start with seeds you run the chance of not having them properly ready to go into the ground, plus by purchasing the plants ready to go, you will be able to enjoy the bounty they offer.
I’m glad I researched this a little bit more, and I know a course of action I want to take with my herb garden. Be sure to research your herbs and what can grow together, and be sure to prune your herbs properly to ensure continued growth.
You are your own best investment
Amateur Connoisseur 