Growing Rosemary

Rosemary Bush

Rosemary is a hardy, easy to grow evergreen that everyone who cooks should have in there garden or in a container. Not only is Rosemary great to cook with but you can also use them as a fragrant ornamental shrub or even a hedge. Rosemary is drought tolerant and very low maintenance.

Location: Rosemary does great in full sun. Good drainage is a must as the plant does not do well in wet soggy soils.

Harvesting: Just snip the stems back with a pair of sharp scissors when needed. If you also using as a ornamental shrub, prune back into the shape you want and store or use the trimmings.

Storage: Dry and remove the leaves from the stem. Store in air tight containers.



More info on growing Rosemary at About.com

Growing Chives

Chives after a harvest

The subtle onioney aroma and taste of fresh chives is one of my favorite things. I'll even chew on a piece while I'm harvesting it. Cheesey potato soup just wouldn't be the same without a generous garnishing of chives on top. Or, dress up a plain omelet with a few a pinch or two for a tastier breakfast.

Chives are super easy to grow and harvesting is as simple as giving them it quick haircut with the scissors.



More info on growing Chives at About.com

Growing Oregano

Oregano, a favorite, best known as staple in Italian dishes (Greek Oregano) is also an important herb in many southwestern and Mexican dishes (Mexican Oregano). I recommend having both because...well why not?

Location: Oregano thrives in full sun and in well drained soil. Like Thyme, Sage and Tarragon; Oregano does well in a "poorer" soil mix. So avoid the richer, more fertile soil mixes and avoid the fertilizer.

Care: Cutting back sprigs will keep the plant bushier and fuller. Trim sprigs when they 4-6".

Harvest: Trim sprigs when needed. Flavor (from the essential oils in the plant) decrease during and after flowering so harvest before use what you need, dry and store the rest.


More info on growing Oregano at About.com

Growing Basil

Basil is incredibly easy herb to grow that will add great flavor to a variety of dishes.

Young Sweet Basil Plant

Location: A sunny well drained area. Grows well in containers. Makes perfect companion to tomato plants.

Growing: Start in greenhouse or plant outdoors after last frost. When flowers begin to form, remove to promote more leaf growth. Pinch tips back for a bushier plant.

Harvesting: Pinch off individual leaves as needed or cut off tops to encourage bushier growth.

Storage: As with most herbs use as soon after harvesting as possible for best flavor. Basil stores best when frozen.

More info on growing Basil at About.com