Organic herb gardening

Organic herb gardening is nothing new. In fact, herbs have been planted and cultivated for centuries in an organic way. Before the invention of pesticides and other chemical fertilizers, herbs were either cultivated from the wild or were grown in gardens or in homes. Whether you plan on using your herbs for ornamental or culinary purposes, organic herb gardening is both fun and easy.

Let's get cooking

Herb gardens can take many forms, from a few potted plants indoors to a large garden in your backyard. First, you'll need to decide what kind of herbs you'd like to plant. If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, choose organic herbs that can be used in cooking, such as basil, chives, dill, garlic, mint, parsley, sage, or thyme.

Next, you'll need to decide how much room you have to plant your garden. If you plan to plant herbs in a flower or vegetable garden, you'll need to consider the appearance, color, and scent of the different plants. Once you know how much space you have, sketch out a diagram of the plot of land. Take into consideration how much space each plant will need.

Finally, you'll want to make sure that the area you have chosen to plant your organic herb garden in gets plenty of sunlight, as most herb plants require at least 6 hours of sun a day. You'll also want to check the condition of the soil. Herbs prefer well-drained soil, so if your location gets a lot of water, you may want to consider planting them in containers, using a raised bed, or opting for an indoor garden.

Now you're ready to plant!

Inside the world of herbs

If you plan on creating an indoor organic herb garden, here are some great tips to help maintain your garden and keep it thriving.

• Rich, fertile soil is the key to organic gardens–no matter where they are. Choose organic potting soil and add a little sand or gravel to ensure adequate drainage.

• Try using a spray bottle to water your plants, rather than give them a heavy watering directly in the soil.

• Place pots in a south-facing window to ensure plants get enough light. If this isn't possible, you may want to invest in a growing lamp, which can be set on a timer.

• Some herbs can be placed outdoors during the summer months, particularly perennials such as chives, mint, thyme, and tarragon. Herbs left outdoors will get extra light and fresh air, aiding in growth.

• Check the roots of herbs frequently to make sure they don't get root bound, meaning they have become too large for the pot. Replant herb plants as needed, adding fresh soil and compost when necessary.

The great outdoors

If you plan to keep your organic herb garden outside, either as its own entity or intermixed with vegetables or flowers, here are some words of wisdom to create healthy plants.

• If you purchase starter plants, check with your local nursery to make sure that the plants have been grown organically. Since growing herbs from seed is relatively easy, you may want to start your own seeds indoors and then move them outside in the spring.

• When transplanting organic herb plants to your garden, water them generously after they have been planted in the ground.

• All gardens attract pests, so be on the lookout for red spider mites and aphids, which are attracted to many herb plants. Spray plants with water and insecticidal soap when necessary.