Imagine walking into your backyard and plucking a handful of fresh, fragrant herbs straight from the earth. (Can you smell that) The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. Now, picture yourself using these herbs to elevate your home-cooked meals. The possibilities are endless, from salads, soups, and pizzas to pasta.
In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at choosing and growing the best herbs, including tips on soil, sunlight, and watering so that you can enjoy fresh herbs all year round.”
Whether a seasoned gardener or a beginner, choosing and growing the best herbs can be a rewarding and delicious experience. There's a wide variety of herbs to choose from, each with its own unique taste and health benefits.
Let's discuss the different types of herbs that will thrive in your specific climate.
Table of Contents
Choosing The Best Culinary Herbs
If you love to cook, you know how important it is to have fresh herbs. But with so many different herbs available, how do you know which ones to choose? Spoiler alert, The best herbs for your kitchen garden depend on your preferences and what you want to use them for.
Here are a few tips to help you select the best herbs for your kitchen. When it comes to cooking with herbs, there are three main things to consider: flavor, aroma, and texture. Start by thinking about the flavors you like and the dishes you typically make. Then, look at the most common recipes and see what ingredients they call for. This will give you a good idea of which flavors will complement your cooking style.
Once you know the flavors you want to work with, it's time to think about aroma and texture. Some herbs have very strong aromas, while others are more subtle. Some have soft, delicate leaves, while others are more coarse and fibrous. Many herbs also have distinctive textures. Some are soft and tender, while others are woody and tough. All of these things matter when you're selecting herbs for your garden.
Once you've settled on the flavors and textures you like best, it's time to get specific about your plans.
Herb Selection (Choose and Grow The Best Herb)
Several common kitchen herbs can easily be grown at home. These include basil (lemon basil) lemon balm, oregano, lemon thyme, rosemary, and sage. With just a little effort, fresh herbs can be available in your cooking all year round. Other herbs that you may want to consider growing include dill, and chives will be a great addition to your garden.
- Basil is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a slightly sweet flavor that goes well with tomatoes and other vegetables.
- Curly Parsley is a common herb that is often used as a garnish. It has a mild flavor that goes well with many different dishes.
- Cilantro is also a popular herb that is often used in Mexican cuisine. It has a unique flavor that pairs well with spicy dishes.
- Oregano is another popular herb that is often used in Italian cuisine. It has a strong flavor that pairs well with tomato-based dishes.
- Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb in the mint family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The leaves have a lemon-like scent and flavor. Lemon balm is used to flavor food and drinks and for its medicinal properties. Lemon balm is a great choice if you want an herb to add to your kitchen repertoire.
- Lemon Thyme is a delicate herb often used to flavor chicken or fish.
- Mint is a refreshing and versatile herb used in sweet or savory dishes. It’s also easy to grow, so it’s a great herb to have on hand if you like to cook with fresh herbs. Mint plants are a popular herb that can be used in many ways. There are several different types of mint plants, and each type has its own unique flavor.
- Spearmint or peppermint are good choices if you're looking for a minty flavor in your cooking. These herbs have a strong mint flavor that can add a refreshing taste to many dishes.
- If you want to add a touch of mint to your desserts, then try using chocolate mint or orange mint. These herbs have a sweetness to them that can complement many sweet treats.
- Rosemary has a strong, pungent flavor that is perfect for roast meats.
- Sage is a versatile herb that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It has a slightly minty flavor that goes well with potatoes and other vegetables.
We personally grow all of these herbs for our kitchen. We have experimented with growing herbs indoors, outdoors, in the ground, in separate containers.
6 Reasons Why You Should Grow Herbs For Your Kitchen
There are many reasons why you should grow herbs in your kitchen.
1. It Will Save You Money
Growing herbs for culinary uses can save you a lot of money. For example, a bunch of cilantro costs around $1.50 at the grocery store, while a packet of cilantro seeds only costs about $0.50. Therefore, you will save money by growing your own herbs over time.
Let's face it, everyone likes good food and fresh herbs taste much better than dried herbs.
2. You Will Have A Fresher Product (Dish)
When you grow herbs yourself, you will have a fresher product than you would find at the store. Herbs sold in stores are often shipped long distances and can lose some flavors during transport. By growing your herbs, you can be sure they are as fresh as possible. Try creating your own tomato sauces or herbal tea with fresh herbs, I think you'll be convinced.
3. You Can Grow Rare And Unusual Varieties
When you grow your herbs, you can choose to grow rare or unusual varieties that you may not be able to find at the store. This is especially true if you live in an area with a limited selection of stores.
4. You Can Control The Quality of Herbs
When you grow your herbs, you can control the quality of the product. For example, you can use organic methods to grow your herbs without pesticides or herbicides.
5. You Can Have A Year-Round Supply
If you live in an area with a cold climate, you may not be able to find fresh herbs during the winter months. By growing your herbs, you can have a year-round supply. You can also dry or freeze your herbs for future use.
6. You Can Start with a Minimal Investment
You don't need a lot of space or equipment to get started growing herbs. All you need is a pot, potting soil, and seeds. You can start small and gradually expand your herb garden as you have more time and money.
Grow Your Herbs (How To Start)
For most herbs, it's best to start with seedlings rather than seeds. Seedlings are young plants that have already been started from seeds; they can be found at most garden centers, grocery stores or online. Seeds can be more difficult to germinate and care for, but with patience and instruction, and I'm confident you can be successful..
Planting Your Seedlings (Herbs):
- Dig a deep and wide hole to accommodate the root ball.
- Gently remove the seedling from its container and place it in the hole, ensuring the roots face downwards.
- Firm the soil around the plant and water the well.
Sun
Plants need sunlight to grow, and herbs are no different. If you want a kitchen garden that produces an abundance of fresh herbs, then you need to ensure that your plants are getting enough sun.
Herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme do best in full sun, which means they need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If you live in an area with hot summers, it's best to grow these herbs in a spot that gets some afternoon shade.
Rosemary, sage, and mint can tolerate a little less sun, so they're good choices for shady areas or gardens that get afternoon sun. For indoor herbs, a south-facing window is ideal.
Soil
Soil is the foundation of your herb garden, and the key to success lies in choosing the right type of soil for your plants. There are a variety of soil types available, but not all of them are ideal for growing herbs.
The best type of soil for growing herbs is well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. This type of soil will give your plants the necessary nutrients to grow healthy and strong. It is also important to ensure the soil is loose and aerated so the roots can easily penetrate it.
If you're using containers, consider using a potting soil mix instead of soil from the earth.
If you're planting in the ground, prep the ground to ensure it has well-drained soil. This may require you to amend the soil with peat moss, sand etc. If you're unsure what type of soil you have, take a sample of it to your local nursery or gardening center and ask for their advice. They will be able to tell you what type of soil is best for growing herbs in your area. If you're planting
Fertilizer
Herbs don't need much fertilizer, but a little goes a long way. The best time to fertilize your herbs is in the spring before they start growing. A light application of an all-purpose fertilizer or compost will do the trick. You can also use slow-release pellets or organic matter such as manure or blood meal. Don't overdo it, though, as too much fertilizer can make the leaves bitter. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, careful not to get any on the leaves. Water it in well.
Fertilize your herbs again in mid-summer if they seem to be flagging. You can also side-dress them with a little compost or manure at this time. If you're growing herbs in pots, fertilize them every few weeks during the growing season with a water-soluble fertilizer. You can let your herbs rest during winter and skip fertilizing altogether.
Water
Watering your herbs is one of the most important aspects of growing them. Without enough water, your herbs will not grow well and may even die. It's recommended that you use drip irrigation or a soaker hose. This will help to keep the leaves dry and prevent fungal diseases.
Herbs need about 1-2 inches of water per week. Water early in the day so the leaves have time to dry before nightfall. Do not allow your herbs to wilt, as this can damage the plant. Try to water at the base of the plant rather than on the leaves, as this can cause leaf diseases.
If you are growing herbs indoors, be sure to water them regularly. The soil should be moist but not soggy. Allow the top of the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Do not allow your herbs to sit in water, as this can kill the plant.
Conditions And Care
Every herb has special conditions and cares that it needs to thrive. For example, some herbs need full sun, while others prefer partial shade. Some herbs need to be watered frequently, while others do not. However, they share some basic needs.
Can You Grow Herbs In Containers?
Yes, you can grow herbs in containers. Containers can be made from various materials, including plastic, clay, metal, and wood. When choosing a container for your herbs, make sure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Herbs need well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight to thrive. If you're limited space, consider growing herbs in hanging baskets or window boxes. Also, remember that some herbs, such as mint, can become invasive if not kept in check. To avoid this, choose a container with a tight-fitting lid or plant mint in a separate pot.
We grow herbs in various places on our property. Our primary kitchen herb garden is grown in containers on the deck porch for close proximity of our kitchen. Here is a TikTok video I created.
How To Grow Perennial Herbs Indoors
Perennial herbs are an excellent addition to any indoor garden, providing year-round greenery and flavor. While growing perennial herbs indoors requires a bit more work than annual herbs, the results are well worth the effort. Here are a few tips on how to set up an indoor herb garden:
Choose the right location. Perennial herbs need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, so pick a spot near a sunny window. If you don't have a sunny spot in your home, you can also grow your herbs under grow lights.
Give them room to breathe. Perennial herbs need plenty of space to spread out, so make sure to choose large pots to grow in. Choosing pots with drainage holes is also a good idea to prevent your herbs from becoming waterlogged.
Trim them back regularly. Perennial herbs will become leggy and produce fewer leaves if they are not trimmed back regularly. Use sharp pruning shears to trim back the stems of your herbs by a third or so every few weeks.
We successfuly grow basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and mint indoors.
If space is a concern, consider using mason jars to grow a small plant.
Pests And Diseases
Kitchen gardens are a great way to enjoy fresh herbs all year round. But if you're not careful, your herbs can become infested with pests or diseases. Here are some tips on how to grow the best herbs for your kitchen garden:
- Choose disease-resistant varieties: Some herbs are more resistant to pests and diseases than others. When choosing which herbs to grow, consider choosing disease-resistant varieties.
- Keep your garden clean: A well-maintained garden is less likely to attract pests and diseases. Be sure to keep your garden clean by removing dead leaves and debris.
- Inspect your plants regularly: Inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases. If you see any problems, take action immediately to prevent the problem from spreading.
- Use organic methods: Using organic methods is the best way to avoid pest and disease problems in your garden. Choose organic fertilizers, pest controls, and weed killers.
- Practice crop rotation: Crop rotation is a great way to prevent disease problems. Every year, grow different herbs in different areas of your garden. This will help to break the life cycle of pests and diseases.
Treating Infected Herbs
If your herbs become infected with pests or diseases, don't despair. There are many effective treatments available. First, isolate the affected plants to prevent the problem from spreading. Then, you can treat the plants with an organic pesticide or fungicide. Contact an expert if you are unsure how to treat your herb plants.
Herb Kits
Culinary herb kits are sold online and at some big box stores. They are sets of herbs that are commonly used in cooking. They often come in small pots or containers and are designed to be grown in a kitchen or other small space. Some kits may include a variety of herbs, while others may focus on a single type of herb. Some common herb kits include basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. These herbs can add flavor and nutrition to various dishes, including salads, sauces, marinades, and soups. Culinary herb kits can be a fun and convenient way for home cooks to have a ready supply of fresh herbs.
Harvesting Herbs
When it comes to harvesting your herbs, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure to wait until the plant is fully grown before picking it. Second, cut the plant about an inch above the ground (soil) so that new growth can occur. If you're not using the herbs in a reasonable time, dry them properly to help preserve the herbs to use at a later time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen Herb Gardens
Do Kitchen Herbs have Health Benefits?
Herbs are good for adding flavor to your food and can also have health benefits. For example, basil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Oregano is a good source of antioxidants. Rosemary has been shown to improve cognitive function.
What is a Kitchen Herb Garden?
A kitchen herb garden is a small indoor garden where herbs are grown for culinary purposes. These gardens are usually located on a windowsill or other sunny spot in the kitchen. Common herbs in kitchen herb gardens include rosemary, basil, thyme, oregano, cilantro, and mint.
How Often Should I Water Herbs?
Herbs need to be watered regularly, but how often you water them depends on the type of herb. Basil, for example, needs to be watered more often than other herbs. You should generally water your herbs whenever the soil is dry to the touch.
How to preserve culinary herbs? I wrote a complete article on preserving herbs. Check it out here.
Conclusion
Growing the best herbs for your kitchen garden requires effort, but the results are well worth it. The plants will provide you with fresh herbs all year round, and you'll enjoy the flavor of homegrown herbs in your cooking. Caring for your herbs will prevent pests and diseases, and harvesting the plants at the right time will ensure they are full of flavor.
So, don't wait any longer; start planning your herb garden today and join the ranks of satisfied gardeners reaping the delicious benefits of fresh herbs. Hey, do you receive our newsletter? If so, great, share it with a friend. If not, please consider subscribing.
