Description
Herbs in Pots
An herb garden is a wonderful thing. Having a potted herb garden that you can harvest year round is a chef’s dream come true!
Type of Container
Let your imagination run wild when considering what type of container to grow herbs in. Just about anything will work, but keep in mind, most varieties prefer fast draining soil. As long as the container you select has adequate holes and drains well, you should be in good shape. Some of the most popular container choices are made out of terra-cotta. Although herb gardeners often prefer terra-cotta because of it’s natural wicking capability. You can grow a bunch of different herbs in it and when you need some flavor for your food … it’s all right there!
Another thing to remember when selecting a container is that size does matter. The pot must fit the plant – or plants – that will be growing in it. If the container is too small your herbs may quickly become root bound. On the other hand, if the container is too large your plants may spend all of their energy on root production and not grow the way they should.
Herb Varieties & Lighting Requirements |
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Full Sun
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Anise Arnica Basil Borage Calendula Caraway Catnip |
Chicory Cilantro/Coriander Dill Fennel Hyssop Lavender Mustard |
Oregano Rosemary Sage Summer Savory Tarragon Thyme Yarrow |
Partial Sun
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Aloe Beebalm Chamomile Chervil Chives Comfrey Echinacea |
Garlic Lemon Balm Lemon Verbena Lovage Marjoram Mint Nasturtium |
Parsley Soapwort Sweet Cicely Sweet Woodruff Tansy Violet Wintergreen |
Soil
When you grow plants in containers, it’s important to provide them with a high quality potting soil or soil-less mix. In other words, you can’t just run out to the backyard, dig up a little dirt and call it good. Ordinary garden soil is much too heavy and dries out quickly. What you’re looking for is a soil that is loose and well drained. You can purchase a quality potting soil, or you can make your own. Here’s a popular recipe for container grown plants: