Herbs for Planting

Rosemary

• This herb grows in a bush form, with Christmas tree-type branches. The leaves of rosemary look like the needles of a Christmas tree. Rosemary also has a fragrance similar to pine trees. This herb is widely used in cosmetics, herbal medicines and to flavor food. When grown in a container, rosemary stays smaller and more compact. When planted in the ground, rosemary gets larger and bushier, but may be contained by pruning. This herb grows well in every season.

Basil

• Basil offers many varieties (purple, sweet, African). This herb is relatively easy to grow. Basil prefers warm temperatures, lots of sunlight and requires plenty of watering. A rapid grower, basil quickly reaches a height of several inches to 2 feet tall in maturity. Basil grows well both in the ground and in containers -- and is useful in cooking soups, stews and pasta dishes.

Chervil

• This herb is related to parsley and shares a similar, but milder, taste. Chervil also looks like parsley or the tops of carrots. Chervil grows best in cooler temperatures when grown outdoors. It also grows nicely indoors in a container in a sunny spot. Water frequently as chervil grows quickly and needs plenty of water to keep up.

Parsley

• This herb is one of the most commonly used herbs. Growing to a bushy shape, parsley has green leaves and a fresh fragrance and taste. Varieties of parsley include curled, flat leaf and Italian. Parsley needs plenty of sunlight and water to grow into a healthy, mature plant. If grown outdoors, place in a sunny area with well-drained soil. Indoors, place in a sunny spot or window and water daily.

Lavender

• Lavender is an attractive plant with dusty green leaves and small purple flowers, hence the name. The flowers of lavender are often dried and used in cosmetics and teas. They may also be eaten straight from the plant or used as edible decorations on cakes or other dishes. Lavender thrives indoors or out, and in nearly any type of soil. This herb does not require excessive watering and needs only partial sunlight.

Mint

• Mint is a fragrant, fast-growing herb. Often used for teas and in recipes, mint has small, bright green leaves. Mint is best suited to container growing, because it is a rapid grower and will quickly overtake other plants in your garden. Mint prefers moist, well-drained soil and does well in most light conditions. At maturity, mint may reach heights of up to 2 feet.