Herbs have been grown and used for thousands of years for their culinary and medicinal qualities. Their ornamental and aromatic qualities lend aesthetic beauty and fragrance to any landscape.
Once you’ve tasted the difference between fresh and dried herbs, you’ll never go back. Not only are fresh herbs more nutritious and better tasting, they are less expensive to grow and harvest yourself compared to buying them at the grocery store.
Annual vs. Perennial:
Some herbs such as basil, dill and cilantro are grown as annuals in most regions. Others such as thyme, sage, and lavender are reliable perennial herbs.
Select for Success:
Choose herbs that are the easiest to grow, such as parsley and mint, for the best success.
Choose What You Use:
Grow herbs that you regularly use, such as parsley, oregano, basil, and mint.
Indoors vs. Outdoors:
Choose the right herbs for your situation. Some, such as parsley and oregano can be grown indoors, while others including lavender and rosemary need outdoor light and more space.
Harvest:
Morning is the best time to harvest herbs. Snip plants regularly to stimulate new growth, up to a third of the plant at a time. Leaves have the best flavor when cut just before plants flower. If you’re using the flowers, wait until peak bloom. Seed heads can be harvested once they begin to turn brown.