| A Beginners Guide to Herb Gardening 1) Purpose: Take into consideration the purpose of your garden. Will you be using your herbs for culinary, medicinal or ritualistic use? 2) Climate: One thing that cannot be overlooked is your particular climate. Do you have short summers and long winters? Do a little research and check out your Plant Hardiness Zone. Plants that are hardy in your zone will make your first gardening venture successful. The following link will help you find yours. <http://www.usna.usda.gov/Hardzone/ushzmap.html> 3) Location: Take about one week to scout an area for your garden. Several times a day check for sun exposure, temperature, and wild life activity. These factors will help you determine when, where and what to plant. Focus on several areas so that you will find your ideal location. For more tips visit: <http://www.familyresource.com/lifestyles/22/351/> 4) Space: Don’t be afraid to use containers if your garden space is limited. I personally have a 6” by 8” patio area that serves as my garden getaway. I have twenty different herb plants as well as a variety of colorful flowers and other decorative plants. When all else fails, garden up! This may include trellises, hanging pots, or wall mounted containers. I use all of the above to maximize my small space. For more info on vertical gardening go to: <http://www.mastergardenproducts.com/gardenerscorner/ vertical_gardening.htm> 5) Time: Choose herbs that meet your personal time allocation. If you have a limited amount of time do not choose plants that will require trellis training or heavy pruning. Try to pick low maintenance herbs. Like wise, do not overwhelm yourself with too many plants. Start out with no more than five herbs. This amount will not dominate your time and will give you a chance to learn the properties and usage of your choices. Do not expand until you feel confident in your knowledge. Add only 1-2 plants there after. By: Lady Sagerowan |
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