Herbs adapt very well to their environment, as do plants in general. Most culinary and medicinal herbs need plenty of sunlight, and well-drained soils, in addition to frequent watering. Most culinary herbs are resistant to pests, and are easy to grow even for beginner gardeners.
Herbs will gather all the nutrients they need from the soil. After several harvests the leaves may begin to lighten or even yellow, this is a sign that they may additional nutrients. Almost any fertilizer will do, but I recommend making your own compost out of kitchen scraps. This is a great way to add nutrients back into the food cycle.
Here are 6 of the best herbs for small containers:
1. While mint tends to be overwhelming outdoors, often overtaking smaller plants alongside it, in individual pots, they can be a delightful aromatic addition to your kitchen. The small pot constricts growth and produces smaller, even more flavorful leaves. Mint makes an excellent addition to summertime drinks with a clean, refreshing taste.
2. Basil is the perfect houseplant. It smells wonderful, it is relatively hearty, and it tastes absolutely wonderful. Weather it is fresh pesto, Caprese salads, or just flavoring the marinara sauce, there is a reason that basil is in everything. This plant loves to grow in the window and as long as you remember to water it often, and pinch off the tips before it goes to flower, it will bring fresh herbs all year long.
3. Rosemary grows tall and lanky with leaves that look much like pine needles. Dried, crushed, and sprinkled with a little salt and pepper gets you rosemary chicken after 30 min in the oven. One of the most delicious healthy dishes you can make for the family on the go. Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean, and likes plenty of sun and water.
4. While oregano can easily be found in many verities I there are a few that are better suited for small containers. Be sure to read the label carefully and look for one that is right for small gardens. Oregano is a must for every serious herb lover.
5. Chives, like many herbs are used both in cooking and for medicine. Delightful on a baked potato and also a fungicide! Isn’t food wonderful?! It is when you are cooking with fresh herbs. Chives are easy to harvest and are considered one of the fine herbs of French cuisine.
6. Chili Peppers make a beautiful addition to the muted greens of most herb gardens. Give your herb garden a kick with some compact Thai and Mexican varieties. Bright red and full of power, chili peppers can lower your blood pressure with its abundant antioxidants and capsaicin, while still leaving you burning for more.
Whether you are a experienced gardener or the recipient of a Herb Garden Gift, you can benefit from the experience of growing your own herbs. It’s easier than you think, and the results are simply priceless.
If you liked this article please consider purchasing a herb garden gift for someone you know. It makes for a heartfelt gift that keeps on giving for years to come.
The Author:
Master Gardener is a hobby grower and herb garden enthusiast.