Harnett County Center
Plant Talk |
by Paul G. McKenzie
From the Daily Record, Dunn,
NC
CAUTION:The information and recommendations in this article are applicable to Harnett County, NC and may not apply in other areas.
ALL ABOUT HERBS, 05/8/98
Herbs are one of the hottest gardening trends these days. For those who just have to keep up with the latest fad, you're in luck because herb gardening is easy. And for those less concerned about being trendy, herb gardening still has a lot to offer.
Just consider what herb plants have to offer: attractive foliage, flowers, and wonderful scents. And I haven't even mentioned their culinary attributes, or that some attract butterflies.
The first step for successful herb growing is to select a sunny site. Then till the soil, add some organic matter, and pull a soil sample for analysis.
Next is to select the herbs you want to grow. Do you want to grow culinary herbs to use in the kitchen? Or are you more interested in growing them for their fragrance and ornamental value? Either way, their are numerous choices.
Basil - This is the classic herb, and it is easy to grow. It is an annual, and can be easily grown from seed or transplants. The foliage is harvested by pinching off the top floret of leaves before flowering. Basil can be harvested frequently, which also helps to create a bushier plant. Three or four plants spaced ten inches apart should provide an abundant supply for your cooking needs.
Dill - Dill is a cool-season annual which is easily grown from seed. In fact, if you let it flower, you can harvest seed to plant next year. The feathery foliage is quite fragrant and attractive. The foliage can be used in salads, vegetables, and other dishes, while the seed is used to flavor pickles. The dill in my garden attracts the beautiful celeryworm caterpillar which becomes the black swallowtail butterfly (reason enough to plant it in my book).
Mint - There are many varieties of mint (e.g. pineapple, chocolate, spearmint), all perennial and easy to grow. In fact, a bit too easy, as they will become invasive if not kept in check. Probably best to plant in a pot or confined area. The leaves are harvested as a flavoring in food and drinks. If allowed to flower, it will attract a variety of interesting moths.
Oregano - Another perennial, of which several varieties are available. The foliage is harvested as a seasoning. Harvest frequently by pinching out the new growth before flowering.
Lavender - A perennial with thin leaves and attractive but small purple flowers. The fragrance alone is reason enough to grow it. May retain foliage year-round if the winter is mild. Flowers and foliage used in potpourri and sachets.
CARE
Be sure to water new plants until they become established. When planting transplants, be sure to loosen up the soil around the roots. For seed, follow the spacing and depth recommendations on the seed packet.
Mulching will help reduce your weeding chores. You are likely to have few insect and disease problems, though if you do there are not many pesticides available. A light application or two of a nitrogen source during the growing season will keep them growing.
Herbs are easy to preserve. Freeze recipe-sized portions in aluminum foil or a plastic bag. Or tie stems together in a bunch and place upside down in a paper bag. Punch a few holes in the bag, then hang in a warm dry location.
These are just a few of the possibilities. Please call if you need more information, or would like to find out about other herbs.
Back to Plant Talk Index
