Most people envision hours of digging in the dirt and pruning for a gorgeous flower gardens and bountiful vegetable gardens. However, there is another type of garden that doesn’t require as much maintenance and really does not take up that much space; an herb garden. Just think of how much the richer the foods you cook will be when made with your own homegrown herbs. There is a lot more to lawn care than just mowing and lawn treatment.

There are many types of herbs that can be grown and harvested. The most popular among herb gardeners are Rosemary, Thyme, Basil, Chives, and Oregano etc. Just take a look in your kitchen cabinets or spice rack and see what you typically keep on hand for cooking. Think of the money you’ll save your herbs on your grocery bill overall. A few hardy plants can supply enough herbs to last you all year.

For a successful herb garden you must have good draining soil, so that the roots of the plant are not steeping in damp earth. Too much moisture will cause diseases in your plants and a poor harvest. If you choose to garden in the earth be sure to dig down under your bed and leave a layer of crushed rock for drainage. If you decide to container garden your herbs a few large rocks or broken terra cotta in the bottom of the pot will provide adequate drainage.

Gardening from seed packets is a less expensive way to garden. It may take a little longer as you have to wait out the germination period. However once they have begun to grow, some plants can grow like wildfire such as Mint. If left unchecked in a large open area, Mint can quickly take over the entire area. Fast spreading plants such as Mint might be better off in containers. The great thing about container gardening is that you can grow them inside or out. They make a lovely addition to your interior, especially quaint on a kitchen window sill. Be sure to allow the plants to mature the plants enough to handle their first harvesting. Consult an expert or book on the right time frame.

Once your plants are ready for harvesting you probably want to cook with them right? First you need to dry them out though. To do this lay the leaves and stems out on a cookie sheet and bake them in the oven at 170 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 4 hours. Then get cooking and enjoying your harvest.

Herbs, once they are dried, can be stored in plastic or glass containers. Avoid using containers made of paper or cardboard as they will absorb the flavor right out of your herbs. Make sure that you store your herbs in a dry place and check them often for moisture. If they get damp it will cause mildew and you don’t want that.

Growing herbs can be a cooks dream. But even if you don’t grow herbs primarily for your own cooking, they make wonderful gifts for friends and family. Get more info on easy gardening.