Culinary Herb Garden Information
Herbs are generally used in cooking to flavor foods, potpourri, and tea. They can even be used to control pests in the garden as well as for medical purposes. Your culinary herb garden can be specialized towards one of these areas, or be a mixture of a few different ones.
There are references in medieval documents, and the Bible showing herbs were used by many households. Herbs can be grown in a garden with other species of plants or in indoor containers, and is something that is very beneficial to gardeners for several different purposes.
The most popular use for herbs are for cooking, so the most common type is the culinary herb garden. But they can also be grown for their aromatic foliage and some for the striking beauty of their flowers. Some herbs are used as garnish for salads and plates, while other types of herbs can be used to enhance the flavor of your dish. They are typically used dried and fresh.
The most popular method to grow herbs for the home cook is right in the kitchen. Your culinary herb garden can also be started in a small plot in the garden. A four feet by six feet are should be large enough to support a continuing supply of fresh herbs for the home cook.
Similar to any other plant, herbs grow as perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs. Be sure to use well-drained soil when planting your herbs. Fertilizers are not necessary, but you can add organic matter if you find that your soil is heavy or compacted. Although a few prefer full shade, most herbs prefer a nice sunny location. Surprisingly, very few insects or diseases attack herbs. Sometimes in hot, dry weather, you may notice red spider mites on the low growers, and aphids might attach to anise caraway and fennel.
Although herbs can be bought and planted into a home garden, it is pure joy to be able to see a plant be grown from a single seed. You will be able to enjoy every step of the growing process from the initial sprout to your tasty dish. Seeds should be placed in a shallow box or pot, preferably in late winter, using well-drained soil for optimal growth. Herbs do not have a very deep root base, so make sure you don’t cover the seeds with too much soil. They should be planted more on the shallow side. Follow this rule: the finer the seed, the shallower to sow. You should transplant your seedlings outdoors in the spring. Some herbs like fennel, anise, coriander and dill may not transplant well, so you may want to plant these directly into the garden. Most herbs however can be grown from seeds.
Starting a culinary herb garden in your kitchen or home garden is not only worthwhile, but very easy. Hopefully this article has inspired you, and you are now ready to get started on that home herb garden. Think of all those tasty dishes you will be creating for your family and friends with the freshest herbs available. There is much information to know and understand, and you can find it right here! Good luck and happy cooking!
