herb guide-I’m sure you’ll agree with me that herbs have quite a few advantages.
But searching the web for information could be tedious.
But
Exactly because of this, I wrote the herb guide article.
So all the information is in one place!
for more gardening articles check out my gardening blog
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Table of Contents
herb guide
Herbs definition
Herbs are a generic name for all those plants which can be used for seasoning ‘as they’ – without drying, grinding, cooking or any other processing.
you can use Herbs in salads, soups, a variety of dishes and even sandwiches.
Most of the herbs are easy to grow and are not shrubs that require a garden to grow, so those who live in buildings can have them raised in window boxes and enjoy fresh herbs in their dishes.
Herbs are common in folk medicine, where they have attributed the virtues of healing diseases. Even marijuana is also called as herb and can be purchased from legal marijuana stores in California.
What is an herb?
Herbs are the parts that can be used in herbaceous plants (plants without a woody trunk).
The word herb usually refers to those who have cosmetic, culinary or medicinal uses.
The culinary uses of herbs are what differentiate them from spices.
While herbs are referred to as green leaves or flowering parts of a plant, fresh or dried. spices, however, are made from other parts of the plants, which are generally dried, including berries, seeds, roots, and fruits.
How to grow herbs?
Sooner or later, those who have a Private House Garden, and even those who live in a building with a window, find themselves at some point dreaming of a personal herbs garden from which he will pick a little mint for tea or basil for cooking whenever he wants.
The truth is that with a little knowledge and planning, you can set up an herbs garden that will last more than two months – whether it’s a garden or a window box.
So how do you get started and how do you make sure the plants last?
Here are some iron rules:
How to choose a place:
Whether you intend to grow herbs on the balcony, on a window sill or in a garden, it is important to check how many light hours the exact location has. If the garden or balcony faces south or east (If you live in the northern hemisphere), it may suffer from excess sunlight – which can damage the herbs. Examine the choosing place and find out if it’s getting a shade or most of the day it is in direct sunlight, which will not be really good for your plants. If you are already in Location matters, you may want to choose a place for herbs alongside a wall or fence to give them protection from winds(As you can see in the picture in my yard).
How to plant:
When you go to buy herbs it is very important to choose the right soil. You can purchase seeds or herbs plants as you wish, just remember to plant them in the appropriate spaces according to the instructions of each plant and plant or transfer the seedlings to a pot with a minimum diameter of 10 inches or a 32 inches plant. Remember to plant each herb separately – different plants need different conditions, even if the difference is minor. They also grow differently, and in any case – prefer to grow alone, without friends in the box.
If you still want to grow as many herbs as possible, and you do not have enough space, look carefully, which herbs can grow together without harming each other.
check the price for organic soil in amazon bestseller or Amazon choice
Keep mobility simple:
As mentioned, every herb is a whole world and needs different and changing conditions. For example, most popular herbs plants are suitable for planting in summer but suffer greatly from a cold, like basil and oregano for example. Nana is a plant that runs across the ground, as well as sage, while the Luiza can reach an impressive height of more than 3.2 inches. my Luisa is 6.56 🙂
Therefore, even if you have a small herb garden in the yard, the best advice is to try to plant some plants in a Planter, flower pot, or Decorative cart, so you can “play” with their location when necessary, And they will grow properly. Here’s a nice idea, click on the pic to check amazon price
Take care of the garden watering:
In the case of the garden, you should also take into account the irrigation system and the rest of the flowers and plants in it.
Irrigation of flowers and garden plants is not suitable for a garden of herbs usually, and the herbs on their part, do not always integrate esthetically with other plants, and even can harm them, for example, take control of the garden bed or block the sun.
If you choose to plant the herbs plants in the ground, choose the right location – you can grow them in a separate area at the edge of the garden, for example, and you can plant them near other plants while maintaining the specific rules of care for each plant and plant.
Who and who in the garden – what herb to plant and when?
Summer planting: mint, Louisa, sage, oregano, thyme, tarragon, basil
Fall/winter: Green onion, dill, chives, cilantro, parsley, roquette, celery, and lime
Decorative/floral herbs: purple basil, oregano, lavender, thyme, sage
Full sun: basil, roquette, mint, thyme, coriander
Partial shadow: Melissa, Irit
Sensitive to the wind and cold: Louisa, basil, tarragon, oregano
Need a well-drained soil: Louisa, roquette, oregano
Multiple irrigations: Melissa, mint, parsley.
Recent tips for winning garden herbs:
-How will you know that the plant is getting enough water? Examine it the like the way a cake is checked-place, a wooden toothpick or skewer in the potting soil. If it comes out smooth – it is best to water (until the water reaches the drain).
In any case – keep the soil always moist.
-herbs plants that grow indoors need ventilation. Place them near a window and keep it open for a couple of hours.
-It is important to ensure equal exposure to light from all sides of the pot. For this purpose, the pot or the flowerpot should be rotated from time to time, so that all parts of the plant will receive an equal amount of sun.
Here are some options I liked, which can be easily rotated flowerpot -, for checking the Amazon price, click on the image
– The leaves of the herbs are meant for velvet, and the branches are also allowed to prune, but it is worth noticing not to prune more than a third of the plant to allow it to grow again.
What herbs can be planted next to each other?
Planting herbs together is a step toward a flowering garden. Growing herbs together can promote the health and growth of your garden. Some plants will help to deter insects from their plant companions, provide them with rich soil and even enhance the flavor of their garden buddies. Be careful although, not all herbs will flourish when planted together.
The first step to companion planting is matching your herbs’ preferred conditions. A plant that prefers sandy, dry soil, as an example, shouldn’t be planted with a plant that prefers rich, moist soil. Secondly, you must consider our herbs’ compatibility. Some herbs simply don’t get along and if planted together won’t survive. Thirdly, it is vital to think about the spacing between your herbs. If herbs are planted too close they’ll compete for the soil’s nutrients.
COMPANION PLANTING WITH HERBS
Here are a few of the most common herbs, as well as the best companion plants for them in the garden.
In the garden: Basil is good to repel some harmful insects and mosquitos that is why some herbs will benefit greatly from being planted in very close proximity.
Basil could be a great companion to chili, tomatoes, parsley, and oregano however shouldn’t be planted with sage.
Chamomile will help promote the health and growth of basil if planted within the same container or garden bed.
Chives
In the garden: Chives are very simple to grow and are famous to repel insects like aphids.
They enjoy full sun and moist however well-drained soil.
They can be planted with most plants but especially enjoy the company of mustard greens and carrots.
Dill
In the garden: Plant with cabbages. and Keep away from your carrots.
In the kitchen: Use seed for pickles and also to add aroma and storing taste to vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, and turnips.
Use fresh with green beans cheese, potato dishes, salads, soups, seafood, and sauces.
Marjoram
In the garden: Good companion to almost all vegetables.
In the kitchen: wonderful in almost any meat, fish, dairy, or vegetable dish that isn’t sweet.
Add Marjoram near the end of your cooking.
Mint
In the garden: Mint grows well with tomato and cabbage, but is known to be the enemy of parsley and should not be planted anyplace close to him.
once planted in the right conditions, mint will flourish and even spread like a weed.
Mint enjoys a partly lit environment and should be watered just once if the soil has dried.
If you don’t want your mint to spread like wildfire, best to plant it in a pot instead of the garden.
Oregano
In the garden: Oregano is a low maintenance plant to grow.
It will flourish once planted alongside almost any other herb as long as they enjoy similar conditions.
Oregano is benefited from being planted close to basil, which helps to repel harmful insects.
It likes partial sun and maybe watered only once when the soil is dry.
oregano is also a Good companion to all vegetables.
Parsley
In the garden: Parsley is versatile and really easy to grow.
It will flourish alongside most plants, with tomatoes especially making a wonderful companion.
Mint, however, should not be planted with parsley.
Parsley enjoys a full or partial sun environment and moist soil, although it is additionally tolerant of drier conditions.
Rosemary
In the garden: Similar to how they meld in a delicious stew, rosemary, sage, and thyme can grow well together in the garden.
Rosemary is kind of resistant to poor soil conditions and is therefore relatively easy to take care of.
After every watering, its soil should be left to dry.
Plant also near cabbage, beans, carrots, and sage. Deters cabbage moth, bean beetles, and carrot fly.
Sage
In the garden: Although tolerant of shady environments, the sage becomes most flavorful when exposed to a lot of sunlight.
Sage prefers sandy soil and is tolerant of dry conditions.
As a result, it should not be planted with herbs that like rich, fertile soil.
Sage will grow well alongside tomatoes, carrots, thyme or rosemary.
Plant also near cabbage, and carrots; away from cucumbers. Deters cabbage moth and carrot fly.
Tarragon
In the garden: Good companion to most vegetables.
In the kitchen: Excellent with meat, eggs, seafood, poultry, and in salad dressings, sauces, and marinades.
Thyme
In the garden: Enjoying a similar light and water conditions, rosemary and thyme are great garden companions.
Thyme likes a sunny climate and is relatively drought-resistant.
It should only be watered when its soil is totally dry.
Plant near the cabbage. Deters cabbage worm.
MORE COMMON HERBS
Anise
In the garden: Plant with coriander, which contributes to its germination and growth.
Borage
In the garden: Plant with squash, strawberries, and tomatoes. Deters tomato worm.
Caraway
In the garden: Plant here and there. Loosens soil.
Chervil
In the garden: Plant with radishes.
Fennel
In the garden: Plant away from other herbs and vegetables
Garlic
In the garden: Plant near roses and raspberries. Deters Japanese beetle.
Lovage
In the garden: Plant here and there to improve the health and flavor of other plants.
A mix of Herbs in a Pot
Most herbs begin out as little plants; therefore growing them together in a pot looks like a smart plan to save space.
Herbs grownup together in a pot will work if you harvest their leaves frequently for your cooking; it will keep the herbs plants little and prevents any one of the plants from taking over space and squeeze out the other plants.
Use a pot that’s a minimum of twelve inches in diameter, combine plants that have similar water and light needs, and prepare to snip leaves to keep your plants in bounds. a combination of herbs in one pot will be pretty and practical(if you choose right ), however, it’ll keep your plants small.
Here are some tips on how to choose
Mediterranean Varieties
In the Mediterranean region, you can find many herbs and all have similar needs like relatively dry soil or plenty of sunlight
Rosemary, oregano, sage, thyme, marjoram, lavender all fall into this group. Thyme, for example, is a tiny, reptile plant that can easily be kept within the boundaries of a potted plant and can be combined with rosemary, or variegated sage, that grows more slowly than any green sage.
Moisture-Lovers
Coriander, tarragon, Basil, and parsley love a lot of suns but those herbs also need moist soil as opposed to rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano marjoram, lavender.
About parsley, it is a herb, which usually lives only two years, so it is likely that you will need to replace it at some point or plant a new one.
Mints
The mint family plants, which include peppermint, spearmint, catmint, flavored mints such as lemon balm and orange mint, are spreading plants.
They spread and grow sideways. For this reason, mint will not last long in potted plants, although it will initially grow beautiful, eventually, it will be over, it will die, and the original plants do not live long.
If you are determined to grow mint, grow it in a long window box, where the plant can spread sideways.
Do not mix different types of mint in the same box because they mix and produce new varieties, which will probably not be as tasty or delicious as the original ones.
Lemon-Scented Plants
A great herb that came from South America is Lemon verbena, a lemon-scented shrub, grows large enough to take control all over the pot, however, if you plant low-growing lemon thyme around a lemon verbena’s base as a spreading plant.
The lemon thyme will help to keep the soil moisture, which is great for the lemon verbena, and it’ll spread nicely which will give a decorative look to the pot, the lemon thyme will also flow over the pot’s edges.
Can you grow herbs outside all year?
The answer is yes, it is possible
But there are factors that need to be taken into consideration
First – The question is what winter is there in your area? The colder or rainy the winter, the less likely the herbs will survive.
Second– it is very important the type of ground. It is very important to prepare the soil in advance, to prepare a garden bed, to spread soil with fertilizer, and to plant the herbs in a small distance from each other.
It is better to plant in a garden bed and not to plant in a pot, because a pot at some point limits the roots because of its size, as opposed to a garden bed that will allow herbs to grow stronger roots deeper and expands.
Third – you should also plant at the right time.
For example, herbs that love the sun should be planted in early spring, so they will reach the winter with strong roots. Even if the plant in the winter will not grow, in the spring when it becomes warm it will begin to grow again.
On the other hand, herbs suitable for the winter, of course, should be planted at the beginning of fall, and to ensure that they are in a relatively shady place, so they will survive the summer.
Four – It is very important that the garden bed be with drainage holes. We do not want standing water, because it will cause the herbs to rot.
Five – Finally, do not forget to pick the leaves from time to time, of course for personal use, but even if you have not used a certain herb for a long time, plucking leaves gives it the power to regenerate and strengthen.
If your herbs have passed the first year, they are likely to be strong enough to survive the second year and so on.
But remember, one of them could always die, unfortunately, and we would have to replant a new one.
Here is a list of herbs, which can grow outside all year:
Rosemary, thyme, chives, lemongrass, sage, Louisa, oregano.
This does not mean that other herbs cannot last all year round.
As you can see in the pictures, my basil grows all year round, but those with the most chance.
What herbs can be grown indoors?
First: decide
If you decide to spoil yourself and grow herbs at home, first consider what herbs you want to grow. What flavors do you like best? Which foods do you add herbs? Is it important for you to choose herbs according to their medical abilities? The various herbs are known, among other things, for improving the digestive system, healing infections, disinfecting infections, strengthening the immune system and more.
Second: find a home for new friends
After you have chosen the herb, go and choose the tools you will grow them. Hanging boxes, plastic containers, old cans, crockery or baskets can match and what is important is to take care of small drainage holes for excess water at the bottom of the tool. You can plant some herbs in the same container, but it is best to differentiate between plants that can spread in the container – such as mint, Melissa, laurel or sage – and other herbs that may be affected.
Third: choose a place
The next important step is to place the plants correctly, where the starting point is that the main needs of the herbs are sun and moist soil. Make sure to place the herbs where they will get enough sunlight, but in the hot summer, it is important to take care of them for occasional shading. Make sure to turn around the container every day so that the entire plant receives sufficient sunlight and will not burn. In addition, you should place the plants near a wall to protect them from winds. If you put the containers inside the house, do it near the window – both for exposure to the sun and for ventilation, which the plant needs.
Here are some choices like I showed above
to Make it easy for you to change position or rotate the pot, click on the image to check amazon price
Grow lights
Full-spectrum grows lights are ideal for all herbs. Place the plants within a foot of the bulbs or follow the instructions provided with your lights. Start by having the lights on for 12 to 16 hours a day for bright-light plants and adjust as necessary.
Most herbs will blossom under a grow light if you don’t have in your home a sunny windowsill. Don’t crowd the plants; giving them plenty of space helps prevent pest problems.
There are three excellent choices here
One who is a best seller and two who are Amazon choice
They all have a warranty, some come with a timer and all are energy efficient
Of course, the reviews are excellent, and most importantly they have proven themselves successfully
Click on the image and see what’s right for you
Important tip
Always make sure the container is moist and the soil is not dry. In the same way, you check a cake if it’s prepared in the oven.
Place a toothpick or knife in the center of the container. If it comes out a dirty, sign that the soil is moist, if it comes out clean, you should add more water to the container. It is recommended that the depth of the container be between 7.8 and 11.8 inches(20-30 centimeter) and remember to add to the soil special fertilizers suitable for herbs, which can be bought in the various nurseries, or online.
check the price for organic soil in amazon bestseller or Amazon choice
Give them enough space
If you decide to grow herbs in a window box, try to avoid window box less than 31.496 inches (80 cm) long. it is important to know that, in small containers, the danger of drying out is greater, and very quickly the roots become entangled and suffocated.
So, before you buy a new container, remember the rule: in large and deep containers the herbs are thriving!
Trim branches and trim the flowers
The flowers take a lot of energy from the plant. Cutting off the end of the top of the branch, it is recommended, to maintain a proper and handsome structure. If you want to reach the desired position of branching, it is advisable to trim the branch above where you see “eyes”. From them, new branches and leaves will grow.
Watering: How to Care for Herbs
Many herbs, especially those accustomed to Middle Eastern weather, need loose soil and rapid drainage. Sodden soil, especially in cold winter temperatures, can be fatal for them.
Plant rosemary, thyme, oregano, and bay laurel in a mixture of equal parts of a cactus mixture and permanent potting soil. Let the soil dry a little before watering.
Other herbs grow well in the regular potting ground. Keep the soil a little moist, but not wet. Fertilizer once or twice a month, my recommendation, with a liquid houseplant fertilizer.
I love these guys
Two bottles at one price, also do not need every two days to give to the plants
Hold on for a long time, because it’s just a few drops
And their price is cheap
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What do you plant?
You can plant many kinds of herbs, Here is a partial list of the popular ones
Mint
The familiar and beloved mint is used mainly for tea, but it can also be combined with salads, desserts and refreshing and healthy shakes. Nana can assist in the proper functioning of the digestive system and treats food poisoning, nausea, abdominal pain, nasal congestion and makes breathing easier, which can benefit asthmatic people.
When to plant:
The mint is a perennial plant, and it is recommended to plant it in the early summer.
Growing conditions:
The mint needs sun rays and plenty of water, so the pot must be placed on the balcony, or on the windowsill. The soil must be airy, salty and as drained as possible. It is also recommended to plant it separately from other plants since its roots spread to space, which can damage the plants that grow beside it. Care must be taken to keep the soil moist, but at the same time not to water too much.
It is important to know: when winter comes, it sometimes seems that the mint is fading, but in the spring it will reach its peak again.
Basil
Good for salads and different dishes, but we can also upgrade sauces for pasta and homemade pizzas. The basil is rich in antioxidants and contains phytochemicals considered anti-cancer, which undoubtedly increases the desire to grow it independently. In addition, basil helps control blood sugar levels in diabetics and can relieve bad breath and treat headaches and gas.
When to plant:
Basil is a perennial plant and it is best to plant it with the arrival of spring.
Growth conditions:
Plant in a place where the plant will get great exposure to the sun.
it is important to water a lot.
It is important to know: the basil leaves can be picked all year long, but when you pick them, you should leave a few leaves on the same branch so that it will continue to grow new leaves in the same area.
Parsley
Parsley is considered a very healthy seasoning herb with many medicinal properties and is widely used in the kitchen.
you can use Parsley as a supplement to various foods, and can also be found in healthy shakes. Among other things, it contains vitamin C, which contributes to the proper functioning of the immune system, folic acid that contributes to reducing the risk of disease, and beta-carotene, which contributes to the slowing down of aging processes.
When to plant:
Parsley is a perennial plant, preferably planted at the end of fall or early spring.
Growth conditions:
Parsley needs full exposure to the sun. Like most herbs, it needs a lot of water, and the soil in which it is planted must be drained.
Louisa
The Louisa is a common herb with a delicate and lemon flavor and it is used to prepare tea infusions, seasoning foods and upgrading various sauces. It is customary to use a Louisa in alternative medicine for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders and for a sore throat.
When to plant:
Louisiana is a perennial plant that should be planted in the spring.
Growth conditions:
Plant the Louisa in airy, well-drained soil where the sun is located, Louisa needs a lot of water and therefore it is necessary to increase the watering of the plant and keep the soil moist on a regular basis.
It is important to know: if the plant is still weak, the adult leaves should be removed without harming the young.
Oregano
Oregano is used for the seasoning of many dishes and is common mainly in the Italian and Greek kitchen. In the health aspect, it is known to be a bacterial killer, and in some studies, it has found anti-cancer effects in Oregano. It should also be noted that traditional Chinese medicine frequently uses oregano to relieve fever, vomiting, diarrhea and itchy skin.
When to plant:
Oregano is the same perennial plant recommended to plant in the spring.
Growth conditions:
The oregano needs well-drained soil and needs full sun. in hot areas, it is recommended to grow it in half shade. The herb should not be overwatered, but its soil should be kept moist, and as warm as possible.
Important to know:
Oregano is a strong aromatic taste, and in order to weaken its taste is necessary to be dried. To do this, cut the stalks with the leaves and flower heads and hang them in a cool, airy place. You can also dry leaves in a clean paper bag in a dry place.
Chives
The Chives serves to diversify the taste of various foods such as salads, steamed vegetables, and dairy foods. Her Aroma is more delicate than garlic and onion and should be used mainly when fresh and chopped for salads and pastries. The Chives medical properties include alleviating sunburn and sore throat, as well as reducing cholesterol and blood pressure.
When to plant:
The Chives is a perennial plant and it is best to plant in spring, but it is not necessary.
Growth conditions:
The ground must be airy. In the winter, the Chives need sun as much as possible, and in the summer, the amount of the sun must be reduced by moving the window box or the pot.
It is important to know:
the Chives plant should be treated very gently since it tends to be weak and less stable.
Sage
The sage plant is very important and is an important component in the production of dietary supplements, serves as an excellent source of fatty acids, functions as a medicinal plant and is also a major component of many tea infusions. Recent studies have shown that sage has very high antioxidant activity. In addition, phytochemicals in salvia may have antioxidant properties and can kill a wide variety of bacteria.
When to plant:
Sage is a perennial plant and it is recommended to plant it in the spring.
Growth conditions:
Plant under full sun or half shade in the airy soil and water regularly but in relatively small quantities.
What herbs can be grown in water?
Did you know that you can grow some of your favorite herbs in the water on your windowsill kitchen?
No longer need to use dried herbs when too cold outside, you have a garden exchange.
The best part is that you do not have to mess with soil or watering because you can just grow fresh herbs in the water! It’s very easy.
Water
For a herb that will grow in the kitchen, you can take root cuttings from the grass and put it in plain water in glass bottles. Avoid using chlorine water directly; chemical bleaching is not exactly friendly to plant tissues. Tap water left in the air for the night is fine, so is rainwater stored(check the Decorative Rain Barrels article). Water spring or well water is the best because they have a certain amount of dissolved minerals that may be useful to plants.
Containers
It is important that the containers or bottles you use are colored or opaque. The roots of herbs do not like the sunlight and do not grow well if they are placed in sunlight. The easiest way to stop this problem is to put them in a container that blocks direct sunlight. If you don’t have any dark containers, you can paint them (outside only) or wrap a piece of paper around them so the light is blocked. Plants themselves need sunlight, so it is best to place them where they will get sun.
The Mason jars below would be perfect containers; all you would need to do is punch an inch wide hole in the lid that would hold up the plant stems.
Click on the pic to check amazon price
An important advantage of narrow containers: they can support the grass and keep it almost upright. However, the opening of a container must not be too narrow or tight around the cut. The roots need to breathe, and the opening of the container should allow free movement of air. like in the pic, it’s very cheap, and you can choose a different color
If you use a wide container in the opening, you have the option with nylon or wire netting to cover the top. Insert the cuttings through the holes, and that will offer some support to the cuttings.
in warmer areas, One of the important advantages is that nets prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs in water.
Plants
If you have some herbs that grow in the garden, cut 6 inches from the edge and put them in containers filled with water. The best part of growing herbs from cuttings is that you can use the ones you get from the supermarket. Just wash them with simple water and cut the bottom part.
Remove lower leaves from cuttings and trim the lower tips close to the nodes from where the roots arise. When they are inserted into the bottles, there should not be any leaves touching the water. They can easily rot and spoil the water, as they do in a flower vase.
The water must be changed once a week without removing the plant from the container. It can take as long as six weeks for the roots to start growing. Once they do, the water should not be changed often. You can help in the rooting process by immersion the tip of the stem in hormone-induced. This may make the plant grow roots sooner. I use it because I wanted to increase the chances of success.
I chose Clonex HydroDynamics Rooting Gel because it is made for water growing.
How to Feed Your Herbs
Since the water does not have the number of minerals and nutrients as there is in the soil, you need to feed your plants all the time. This is easy to do, when you fill the container with water, simply mix it with water-soluble fertilizer in the amount of one-quarter the manufacturer’s recommendation. As the water evaporates, and you refill it, the fertilizer will become watered down, so about once a month you will need to replace the water and fertilizer solution from scratch. When you do this, it is very important to rise every part of the plant outside the water, and you must thoroughly wash the container interior and any gravel or marbles that you have in the container. You do not want fertilizer to build upon the roots or container/gravel and burn your plants.
This is the fertilizer that I chose. I use so little that this bag will probably last me for a long time. click the pic to check amazon price
what are the Best Herbs You Can Grow In Water?
Rosemary – Put half a root of rosemary in the water, and keep the plant in a sunny place.
Sage – take a few cuttings from the sage and put them in the water. This herb is prone to mildew, so Keep the plants in bright light and in a well-aerated place.
Mint – This plant is rich in menthol, a substance that provides a cooling sensation in the skin or tongue and does not change the temperature. Put some fresh mints in the water, they are the easiest herbs you can grow in water.
Basil – a plant easily grown in water. Place the clipping of the basil in water before they begin to bloom and place them in a sunny place.
Thyme –The best time to take the cuttings is mid-spring to early summer before the plant starts flowering. The thin stems of thyme can dry out very fast, so put them in water as soon as you cut them. Once it starts growing, cut the stems to promote branching.
The oregano-this pungent herb is worth growing indoors because you can use the leaves to flavor almost any vegetable. Take cuttings of fresh growth and pot them up in the water. Start pinching the growing tips as soon as the plant starts to grow well.
Melissa – Collect a few Melissa pieces that did not ripen and put them in water. After 3-4 weeks, you will see the roots. Change the water frequently.
Which herbs grow in shade?
Many herbs thrive well in the sun and shade, but some of the herbs, especially the more delicate ones, need partial shade, at least during the warm part of the day.
The following herbs can be successfully grown in shady areas of your garden.
Herbs growing in the shade will grow high in an attempt to reach the sun. Cut the leaves up to keep the plants compact and encourage new growth. Always use fresh leaves for cooking. Old leaves have a bitter taste and hard texture.
Herbs for shade
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), a perennial herb, is relatively resistant to cold and sun, so it can grow well in the shade. He does not need any special soil, as long as it has good drainage. It self-sows easily. Lemon balm may be used in teas, salads and fish dishes or with fruit. Its dried leaves may be used in potpourris and sachets. The plant grows long and thin unless you cut them several times a year.
Garlic chives best grow in light shade and should be cut frequently to encourage the production of new leaves. Chives You can use in soups and salads, as a garnish and seasoning for fish, chicken, and pork.
Mint tolerates light shade and comes in a variety of fragrances, including peppermint, spearmint and more. Mint may be used in flavoring teas and drinks or in baking. Because they have a tendency to be a squatter, it is best to grow mint in wide containers to help control the plants.
Parsley, a biennial plant, can be grown in partial shade in warm climates, can be grown in containers or window boxes. Flat Italian parsley has a particularly strong flavor. 24 hours before planting, Soak the parsley seeds.
Sweet Woodroof (Gallium odoratum) is a perennial flower-bearing shaped white star in spring and requires partial shade in hot climates. It prefers rich soil and can become a pest if left untreated. The leaves are hay-scented when dried, and it used to make wine.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), an evergreen shrub, prefers full sun, but it is possible to grow in light shade. It is very aromatic when brushed or bruised and is used in cooking fish, poultry, and game. Rosemary comes in upright and prostrate forms. The latter may be grown on a wall or in a hanging basket.
Celery
My celery grows in the shade
And you’ll see what a nice growth he did in less than two months
Which herbs grow in the winter?
Cold weather could hit hard damage to the herb garden. Fortunately, there are many herbs that can withstand the cold as well as ways to protect those who cannot.
So, here are some herbs that can thrive even in cold weather – winter herbs that can be grown and eaten.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a perennial herb, which can be grown all year round, sturdy enough to protect itself from cold temperatures. This herb will bloom throughout the year.
Parsley
In harsher (cold) climates, parsley will hide underground to keep itself safe, but don’t worry—it’s still growing, however slowly.
Thyme
Thyme will survive the winter with little care, although there will be very little growth like Parsley. you should be careful not to cut all of your thyme shrub’s old growth, as that will prevent it from growing new leaves, taking away all of the plant’s reserves.
Mint
Mint is a strong herb just like thyme. His tough, Recovers quickly and will continue to grow in the winter.
Here is some more herbs list that will grow in the winter:
Dill
Celery
Rocket
Sage
Watercress
Lemongrass
What type of soil is best for herbs?
Most herbs thrive in typical garden soil, as long as it has good drainage. However, some herbs, such as rosemary, lavender, and bay, are woody plants native to the Mediterranean. These herbs prefer gritty, sharply drained soil. Good drainage is crucial because the roots of Mediterranean natives are likely to rot in the moist soil. If the soil in your garden is heavy, grow the herbs in raised beds or planters.
If you do not have the strength or time to build raised beds
These are the three examples I like.
By clicking on the image you can check the price on Amazon
Tip: Mint, parsley, and lovage do best in the fairly moist soil, whereas rosemary, thyme, and sage prefer soil that is only slightly moist.
Do I need to fertilize my herbs?
For herbs, usually, all you need is natural organic fertilizer. Mix it with the potting mixture and plant the herbs.
Herbs grown in containers will require more fertilizer than those grown in the garden. That’s because they have no way to replenish the nutrients they use up as they grow. But do not worry, you do not have to buy extra or fancy fertilizer for your containers, you can use the same fertilizer in your containers! My top recommendations for slow release organic fertilizers for herbs grown in containers are Healthy to Grow organic herb fertilizer and Sustane all natural plant food.
click on the image to check the price on Amazon
How to Fertilizing Garden Herbs?
Sprinkle granular fertilizer on the soil round about the herbs. Do this in the spring.
check the price for organic soil in amazon bestseller or Amazon choice
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Wait until newly-planted herbs and perennial herbs that have survived the winter begin to grow again.
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Use 3 ounces of fertilizer per 30 square feet.
It is better not to use natural fertilizers like compost, compost tea, and fish emulsion. These fertilizers will not provide the right level of nutrients for healthy herbs.
Water the herbs after applying the fertilizer. This will help to wash it down to the root zone.
Do not get fertilizer on the leaves of herbs as it will burn the leaves. If accidentally fertilized hit the leaves, wash it immediately with clear water from a garden hose.
Fertilize the herbs again after four to six weeks if they look weak and are growing slowly.
remember too much fertilizer will cause herbs to grow too quickly, as a result, the leaves will deficient in the essential oils that give them their flavor.
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Too little fertilizer will cause herbs to grow slowly, produce fewer, smaller leaves and look generally weak and unhealthy.
How to Fertilizing Container Grown Herbs?
Take into consideration that fertilizer will possibly wash quickly out of the soil. Herbs grown in containers must be watered more often, sometimes as often as every day, because of the smaller volume of soil around their roots which dries more quickly than garden soil. This frequent irrigation will quickly wash away the fertilizer out of the soil.
Use a liquid, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer with a 5-10-5 ratio. You should dilute the fertilizer at half the rate recommended by the producer.
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A common dilution rate is 1 tablespoon per gallon of water, which should be cut down to 1 ½ teaspoon per gallon for herbs.
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Do not use the fertilizer as it is, because it is too strong and can burn the roots of the herbs.
Here are some good examples
Click on the images to check the prices on Amazon
Water the herbs with plain water. Then, pour the fertilizer solution evenly over the soil until it starts to drain from the underside of the container.
Do not give container-grown herbs fertilizer solution when the soil is dry. This can burn their roots.
Fertilize indoor container-grown herbs every six weeks. Herbs grown outdoors in a container should be fertilizer every three to four weeks.
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You should not give indoor herbs fertilizer during the winter as they naturally grow more slowly in the winter and will not use the fertilizer. If it will be given to them during the winter, the leaf edges will dry, and their roots will burn.
How to grow herbs near the seaside?
One of the biggest challenges when trying to grow a herb garden near the beach is the salt level in the soil. Most plants have little tolerance to high levels of salt, which acts upon them much like salt on a slug. The sodium draws moisture from the plant and can burn roots. However, it is possible to have a lush, productive veggie garden by sea if you choose tolerant varieties and amend your soil with plenty of organic matter.
If you have a coastal garden where sea salt will be a problem, do not lose hope. There are ways to integrate gardening with soil and salt water. Salt tolerant shrubs can be used to form wind or splash breaks that will protect less tolerant plants.
Here are some examples of Salt tolerant plants, click on the pic to check amazon price
Raised Seaside herbs Garden
One proof method of growing herbs or vegetables on coastal areas with high levels of salt is to make a raised bed. Raised beds warm up faster than ground-level soil and are easy to cover to protect from salt spray. Fill the bed with purchased garden soil amended with compost.
This is my recommendation, click on the image to check the price on Amazon
This will start out low in salt, providing a more comfortable environment for young herbs or vegetable plants. Locate the bed in full sun and provide proper water for herbs production. Watch for pests and keep the bed covered with a row cover.like in the pic.
-If you decided to plant in your existing soil, dig down at least 9 inches and Mix with compost. This increases drainage and nutrient levels.
-Provide fresh water for at least a week before planting young plants to help the salt percolate down to a level where it cannot damage the roots.
-Also, choose plants that do well in your area. In order to give your young plants a good chance of survival, choose herbs with salt tolerance.
-Another option is to grow them in planters with good drainage holes and filled with salt-free commercial soil.
-If you experience salt spray, you may have to replace the soil periodically and in any case water with salt-free water liberally from time to time, to wash out the accumulated salts.
Conclusion
There are quite a few herbs that can be grown near the sea, but these herbs are less known or difficult to achieve.
Popular herbs like rosemary can certainly be grown, with proper care as you read above.
How to use Herbs and spices for pest control?
The pests tend to visit us during the hot summer season, so in the months before, it is worthwhile to start preparing the garden. In order to enter the fight against the pests without harming the environment, here are some friendly and greenways to help you remove the pests.
Garlic:
Garlic is also a natural insect repellent. You can plant plants in the garden, or you can buy insecticides based on garlic extract.
Tobacco:
Nicotine can be used as a pesticide, but it is important to remember that it should be used on non-edible plants. There are places in the world where tobacco is used as a pesticide frequently, mainly against larvae and worms. The pesticide is prepared by soaking a tablespoon of tobacco in a liter of water for 24 hours, then diluting and spraying directly on the plant
The smell of mint:
A useful way to remove rats from the garden is to use mint. The rats are repelled by the smell of mint leaves, and they are supposed to stay away from a garden that smells strong mints.
Bay leaves against insects.
Most pests move away from cupboards after a few bay leaves are placed at the bottom. You can also place bay leaves in food boxes, such as in a jar with rice or beans. It is important to remember that the bay leaves have a bitter taste and therefore it is not advisable to exaggerate and you should also change them occasionally.
Prevention of ants
You can spread ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks or alternatively dry coffee at the entrance to the house or in the openings from which the ants enter.
Alternatively, it is possible to distribute Cucumber peels where the ants are entering the house and put salt on them.
Lavender against moths.
Moths blew over your wardrobe?
Put little lavender small bags in the closet and they will disappear. For clothes in the closet, it is worthwhile to do laundry.
Removal of flying insects.
Want to keep flying insects from entering you through the window? Try planting geraniums or geraniums oil on the window sill. Nana and rosemary may also be helpful.
Plants for plant protection.
To protect plants in the garden you can create natural pesticides by spraying with … herbal tea.
Prepare a position or infusion and spray using “Spritzer”.
It is best to use a Tropaeolum majus that does not smell strong. Other plants are suitable for the purpose: sage, chives, garlic, chrysanthemum.
How to connect children to the herb garden?
Children have a conflict with herbs
On the one hand, if they see the green leaves in food, most of them will not want to eat them.
On the other hand, they like to plant them in the garden to water and take care of them.
One of the beautiful ideas there is (as you see in my son’s picture)
Buy a set, which comes with a small flowerpot with soil and seeds of herbs.
The children paint around the Flower box and then plant the seeds.
I also bought them a toy of irrigation tools and garden tools
From my experience, the children are much attached to the plants and caring for them.
They will continue to be interested in the growth of herbs, weeks and even months later; they will become familiar with the herbs and learn to cultivate it, and will be proud of the results.
We always encourage them to smell the herbs plants, and you’ll be surprised, it sharpens their sense of smell, they will easily recognize the smells then no matter where they are.
Of course, apart from a fun activity with the children, the children also show responsibility and a desire to care for the plants. They are proud that the plant has grown, and the wonder is that even ready to taste what we cooked with the herbs, and of course enjoy the health benefits of the herbs.
In the picture, as you see, we treat the roquette we planted, but besides (as you saw in the rest of the pictures above), I always make sure the children smell the sage basil and rosemary.
In the evening, instead of drinking Choco with milk and sugar, I just make them a healthy teapot, from the sage and from Louisa, Ginger adds a little lemon and mint, the children do not give up on it or even try to sweeten it.
The healthiest there is!!
Here are some great examples, click on the image to check the price on Amazon
Which herbs are for healing?
Once, the fresh herbs had a permanent presence in every self-respecting kitchen. Except for aroma and special taste, the grandmothers knew how to make all sorts of miraculous potions against different sensations. In the fast-food generation, they have almost been abandoned, until recent studies have shown what they already knew. These herbs are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, anti-bacterial substances, and substances that increase the immune system’s activity.
Because of these components, they help reduce the risk of diseases such as cancer, heart, stroke, cataracts, retinal degeneration, diabetes, and even dementia.
In addition, the use of herbs reduces the use of salt and high-sodium seasoning powders, which is especially important for people suffering from high blood pressure.
Every herb and its virtue. It is recommended to use different herbs since each plant contains a unique combination of ingredients that make good for our body. The following herbs should be included in your menu. Eat them fresh. Thus how you will gain a higher level of antioxidants.
oregano
Rich in antioxidants, a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fibers. Help prevent fungal infections, improve digestion, and relieve a cough. It has an anti-cancer effect due to flavonoid phytochemicals. In Chinese medicine, it is used to relieve fever, diarrhea, and jaundice.
Tip: Do you cough or have digestive problems? Cook 5 fresh oregano leaves in boiling water for 10 minutes and drink.
Sage
Contains a large number of antioxidants and phytochemicals with antibacterial activity.
sage used to stop the production of breast milk in the past.
Treatment Tip: Do you suffer from a sore throat or gums? Melt sage leaves, or brew 4-5-4 leaves in a glass of boiling water, and rinse your mouth when you delay the liquid as much as possible.
Melissa
Contains a large number of antioxidants and antibacterial ingredients. Patients who received large doses significantly improved their cognitive ability and became more relaxed. Melissa also increases the activity of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter in the brain associated with memory and learning.
Treatment Tip: Do you feel that the herpes lesion starts to appear above your lips? Prepare 5 ml melissa leaves in a glass of boiling water. Cooled. Dip a little cotton wool and absorb the wound several times a day.
mint
Rich in vitamin C (about 40% of the recommended daily allowance of 100 grams), fiber and iron. With high antioxidant capacity. Studies have shown that it may contribute to reducing cancer risk and relieving asthma sufferers. In addition, a large clinical study of mint oil (combined with the plant) found it had a calming effect on gastrointestinal pain.
Treatment tip: suffer from high fever? Sweating? According to Chinese medicine, mint is a cooling plant. Pour 5 leaves in boiling water, cool and drink.
Thyme
It contains salicylates, natural herbal anti-inflammatory agents similar to aspirin and phytoestrogens. Very rich in vitamins (C, A and B vitamins), minerals (mainly iron) and fiber. It contains thymol, a plant component with anti-bacterial and antiseptic activity.
Treatment tip: coughing? Brew ten thyme leaves in a glass of boiling water, and drink the scalding three times a day.
basil
Rich in lutein pigment, whose antioxidant activity is especially important for eye health.
contains antibacterial and vitamin-rich substances, especially vitamin K essential for the blood clotting process (deficiency associated with osteoporosis, arteriosclerosis and heart disease).
basil control also the blood sugar levels in diabetics.
Treatment Tip: Are you stung or is the scratching driving you out of your mind? Place a basil leaf into the stimulated area.
Tarragon
Rich in potassium. It contains flavonoids and their trimmings. Flavonoids work as antioxidants, and lemons help reduce the risk of certain cancers. American research has found tarragon contains 6 components known to reduce blood pressure.
Treatment tip: suffer from lack of appetite? Add tarragon to food. He’ll make you open your mouth.
Coriander
Rich in antioxidants called carotenoids, which contribute to reducing the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease, and lutein, which helps to maintain eye health. It also contains quercetin, which acts as an anti-inflammatory. It is also a rich source of potassium, beta-carotene and folic acid.
Treatment Tip: Abdominal Pain? Sprinkle a teaspoon of coriander seeds in a glass of boiling water and drink.
Louisa
It contains a high amount of antioxidants. Louisa was used to treating gastrointestinal disorders, throat infections, and urinary tract infections In folk medicine.
Treatment tip: suffer from insomnia? Sprinkle 4 Louisa leaves in boiling water and drink before bedtime.
Parsley
It is a rich source of vitamins, especially K (100 grams of parsley has 1,562 percent of the adult recommended daily allowance) and vitamin C (166 percent per 100 grams), which helps reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes complications. Also rich in parsley in potassium and magnesium. Potassium contributes to its changing properties (which is good against fluid retention), and both help reduces the risk of high blood pressure. It is also rich in lutein, and it contains phytochemicals that block a variety of hormonal activities related to cancer.
Treatment Tip: Do you suffer from edema? Sprinkle a few parsley stalks in boiling water for 10 minutes and drink. The scalding will result in increased urination. Important: Drink 2-1 cups of infusion a day to prevent dehydration.
Chives
Contains vitamins and minerals (A, C, B, and K) and minerals (iron, potassium, zinc, and magnesium), sulfur compounds and antioxidants quercetin and alizin. The last one helps in delaying the development of various cancers and lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
Treatment tip: Your cholesterol in the sky? Add fresh chives to your food.
Rosemary
Contains antioxidants that help improve cognitive functioning. The use of grass encourages the activity of acetylcholine. Because of its antibacterial properties, rosemary has also been used to preserve food and treat asthma, allergies and hair loss.
Rosemary tea is used to increase perspiration and as a strengthening material and blocks bleeding in the wound.
Treatment Tip: Cooled? Suffer from a headache/stomach? Sprinkle 5-7 rosemary leaves in a glass of boiling water, sweeten with honey, and rest for about 3 minutes and drink.
dill
Contains substances known to inhibit tumor development and have cancer-preventing properties. Vitamin C (106% of the daily recommended daily dose of 100 grams) and minerals mainly iron (83% of the recommended daily allowance of 100 grams).
Treatment Tip: Do you suffer from excess gas and/or swollen stomach? Make the brew from a stalk of dill in a glass of boiling water, cool and drink.
How to decorate with herbs?
last in my herb guide-decoration
Thanks to my talented wife!
Here is a nice way to decorate a holiday table or just put in the house and enjoy some of the green and smelling pleasant herbs.
Take a tin can, like a tomato paste, for example, do not throw it in the trash!
After you’ve eaten pasta with tomato sauce, wash the can.
Go to the yard, cut off the top of the herbs, and create a beautiful bouquet of flowers with a wonderful smell.
Place on the holiday table, or place it in a decorative place.
And here you are, as in the pictures in my house, wonderful decoration of herbs.
In the house, herbs will last more than a week easily
Without losing their aroma and shape.
because you have picked the top, your herb garden will regenerate and the plants will grow stronger, fragrant and delicious.
herb guide Summary
that’s it, friends, that’s my herb guide.
I really invested a lot of hours, to make an article with all the common questions in the context of herbs.
Trying to avoid jumping from article to article as I had in the past.
I really hope I’ve been able to get most of the material on the subject,
If you are looking for a natural herbal remedy for a health problem, click here
If you have a question about my herb guide, please write me a comment below.
Thanks!
I invite you to follow me on Pinterest.
for more gardening articles, Click here to my gardening blog.
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Good luck friends!
Enjoy your herb garden!
Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb
https://www.wikihow.com/Fertilize-Herbs
https://www.herbs-for-health.com/herbal-face-masks/
Comments
4 comments
Terri
July 29, 2019
I love this very very informative article! Would love a hard copy! Any way to order one?
tomer77
July 30, 2019
Hi Terri
Thank you very much for the compliment.
Unfortunately, for now, there is no way to order a copy.
But I’m here for every question!
T.dubrov
stephy
September 19, 2019
The best article I read in years about Planting herbs!
I have tried to grow herbs indoors but failed miserably. Well, you have answers to all my questions about why it didn’t work.
Thanks a ton for writing a great article.
Planting herbs in water is new to me as well. I am going to try them and let’s see whether they can survive the winter.
*no idea why but I can type only in the capital letter?
tomer77
September 20, 2019
Hi Stephy!
Thank you so much for the compliments
it’s always great to know that you helped others and it was worth investing in the article.
Thank you!
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