Fresh herbs bring flavor and fragrance to even the simplest dish. And they're easy to grow, whether planted in their own special plot or interspersed among other plants. Many thrive in containers, too, gracing a deck or patio.
Choose a planting spot that receives 6 to 8 hours of full sun each day. Well-drained soil is essential; if drainage is poor, amend the soil with plenty of organic matter or plant in raised beds. Work in a complete fertilizer before planting, following the label directions for amounts. Herbs aren't heavy feeders, so this will suffice for the entire growing season.
Most perennial herbs are easier to start from purchased transplants than from seed. Nurseries offer many sorts in spring, typically in 2- or 4-inch pots; rosemary and sage are also sold in gallon containers. Annual and biennial herbs such as basil, cilantro, dill, and parsley can be started from seed.
Water herbs after planting to get them established. Once they're growing steadily, though, most will need only occasional irrigation; exceptions are basil, chives, and parsley, which prefer evenly moist soil.
When perennial herbs resume growth in early spring, feed them with a complete fertilizer or spread compost around the base of each plant.
Harvest herbs for drying just as the first flower buds begin to open. The oils in the leaves are most concentrated at this time, and the herbs will maintain their flavor when preserved. Cut sprigs or branches in the morning, after dew has evaporated; tie them together at the cut ends and hang them upside down in a warm, dry, well-ventilated place out of direct sunlight. When the leaves feel crisp, strip them from the stems and store in airtight jars.
You can also dry herbs by removing the leaves from the stems and spreading them on screens placed in a warm, dry, airy place out of direct sunlight. Stir the leaves in the trays every few days. When they feel crisp and crumble easily, store them in airtight jars.
For herbs grown for their seeds, harvest seed heads or pods when they turn brown. Dry them in paper bags until you can shake the seeds loose; then store seeds in airtight jars.
Herb sampler
Listed to the left are twelve favorite herbs. Click on the list to see details on each plant.
