Pretty Garden Tips

My absolute favorite type of pot for cultivating herbs is the strawberry pot (those cute small pots with all the openings on the sides) because I get to raise so many different herb plants in one pot. From the spindly kinds to the bushy type and from the cascading vines to the long spikes, the strawberry pot is ideal. These pots do tend to dry out quickly, so try to plant only your drought tolerant plants in them.

The size of the pot is crucial. If you use a pot that’s too small, your herb can only grow so much and will eventually die. The nutrients often settle in the bottom of the container, and if it the pot is too big the young roots can not be able to reach them.

Terra cotta containers are a lot better than plastic pots because the terra cotta allows the sod to breathe and healthier sod yields healthier plants. You can find terra cotta pots in lots of fun colors, shapes and sizes which can add interest to your porch or garden.

After you have chosen your pots, it’s a nice idea to add compost to the potting soil before you add your herb plants. You can buy compost at nearly any nursery, or you can make your own like I do. Another thing I like to do is add a small bit of sand to each pot.

Some good choices for herbs to grow in pots are:

• Dill: With dill, you cannot go wrong. It is without a doubt one of the best options for an simple herb. Seeds work awesome for dill too and the nicest part is that once you get it started, it can self-seed for the rest of the growing season. As long as you use a container with good drainage and place it in full sunlight, your dill can thrive. Dill is also gratifying in that you can harvest it soon after you plant it because it grows so quickly. You can cut off the leaves, flowers and seedheads and use them right away, freeze them or dry them for the future.

• Garlic: Garlic can do well if you start it in the spring or fall. Plant your garlic about 2 inches deep with the clove pointing up in well drained soil and direct sunlight. It likes to be watered frequently and adding some nice compost can help it survive. You’ll soon notice that the tops of your garlic are bending over which means that it is ready to be harvested. Dig up the bulbs and cure them on a windowsill for about a week, or until the skin dries to the papery feel that you notice on store-bought garlic. Then you’re ready to enjoy!

• Lavender: If you want to raise your own lavender herb—and who wouldn’t—do not mess with seeds because you’ll be waiting forever. Better yet purchase a little lavender plant at the market and go from there. It is essential that the container you choose for your lavender plant allows for good drainage, is large enough to provide plenty of room for the roots and also allows for mulch. This herb will do best in direct sun, so make sure to place it in the brightest place on your porch. Use the dried blooms in potpourri and sachets. I suggest you put them everywhere (really).

• Yarrow: With all the colors that yarrow comes in the options for awesome dried floral arrangements and wreaths are endless. You can even add yarrow in your lotions, soaps and shampoos. It really does not matter if you select to start this plant with a young herb or with seeds. Yarrow is also rather flexible and can tolerate wet dirt better than most herbs, but also does well in well-drained earth. It will survive in full sun or in a semi-shady location. Once it’s in bloom you can harvest the buds and dry them in a cool, dark location.

Good luck with your herb gardening. Be sure to let me know how your herb garden grows.

Here is more information on Herb Garden In Pots. Here is a website with a free mini-course dedicated to Herb Gardens.

Tags: gardening, Growing Herbs in Pots, growing herbs in pots outside, herbs, outside, pots

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