Growing herbs at home is a fun, money-saving hobby that enhances the taste of food and also happens to be good for your health.
Growing herbs is relatively easy, be in the garden or in pots. The advantage of pots is that you can place them close to the kitchen for easy access. Having them in pots also allows you to move them to help stimulate better growth.
Herbs thrive in just about any type of soil, do not require much fertilizer, and are not often bothered by insect or disease pests. Sunny locations will give you the best harvest. The more you harvest herbs, the better the plant will thrive.
Popular choices include basil, parsley, chives, thyme, rosemary, savory, bay leaf and cilantro. Most of these should be treated as annuals.
There are many other types of herbs, but some of these are better suited for the garden, where they will spread and survive the winter. Popular perennial herbs include oregano, tarragon, and sage.
Most herbs have many varieties. For instance, there are about 20 different basils, each with a distinct colour that ranges from green to purple, and in flavour. It is recommended to start with the common green leaf basil.
If you are new to using fresh herbs in food, know that they will add a whole new taste sensation to your dishes. Some are stronger than others, and there a certain herbs best for specific meats. At first, experiment with quantity and combinations until you find your comfort level.
Once the season comes to an end, many people cut their herbs for drying. Remove the lower leaves along the bottom inch or so of the stem. It’s a matter of tying four to six stems into a bundle and hanging in a dry location.
Most good garden centres have an excellent choice of herbs from which to choose. This year add a new dimension to you garden by growing herbs. Your taste buds will thank you.
