As the weather starts to warm up and we start thinking about spending more time in our gardens, it’s the perfect time to start planning what herbs we want to grow this year. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, having a variety of herbs in your garden can add flavor to your meals, attract pollinators, and even provide some natural remedies.
Here are 10 must-have herbs for your garden:
1. Basil: This popular herb is a staple in many kitchens and for good reason. With its distinctive aroma and flavor, basil is perfect for adding to salads, pasta dishes, and even cocktails. It’s also easy to grow and can be planted in pots or directly in the ground.
2. Mint: Mint is another versatile herb that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It’s great for making refreshing drinks like mojitos or adding a pop of flavor to salads and desserts. Mint can be invasive, so it’s best to plant it in a container to keep it from taking over your garden.
3. Rosemary: This woody herb is known for its strong flavor and aroma, making it a great addition to roasted meats, potatoes, and bread. Rosemary is also a hardy plant that can withstand hot, dry conditions, making it perfect for those with less-than-perfect gardening skills.
4. Thyme: Thyme is a fragrant herb that is often used in Mediterranean and French cuisine. It pairs well with meats, vegetables, and soups, adding a subtle earthy flavor to dishes. Thyme is a low-maintenance herb that thrives in sunny, well-drained soil.
5. Parsley: While parsley is often used as a garnish, it can also be a flavorful addition to salads, soups, and sauces. There are two main types of parsley: flat-leaf (Italian) and curly. Both varieties are easy to grow and can be harvested throughout the growing season.
6. Chives: Chives are a member of the onion family and have a mild, onion-like flavor. They are great for adding a pop of flavor to dishes like omelets, salads, and baked potatoes. Chives also produce attractive purple flowers that can attract beneficial insects to your garden.
7. Oregano: Oregano is a pungent herb that is commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean dishes. It pairs well with tomatoes, eggplant, and grilled meats, adding a savory, slightly spicy flavor to dishes. Oregano is a hardy perennial herb that is easy to grow and can be harvested throughout the growing season.
8. Sage: Sage has a strong, earthy flavor that is perfect for adding to stuffing, poultry, and pork dishes. It’s also known for its medicinal properties, such as helping with digestive issues and sore throats. Sage is a drought-tolerant herb that thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
9. Dill: Dill is a feathery herb with a mild, licorice-like flavor that is often used in pickling and fish dishes. It’s also great for adding to salads, soups, and sauces. Dill can be grown in containers or directly in the ground and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
10. Cilantro: Cilantro, also known as coriander, has a fresh, citrusy flavor that is commonly used in Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisine. It’s great for adding to salsas, curries, and salads. Cilantro prefers cool weather and can bolt (go to seed) in hot temperatures, so it’s best to plant it in the early spring or fall.
In addition to adding flavor to your meals, growing herbs in your garden can also benefit the environment. Herbs attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which can help pollinate your other plants. They also require less water and fertilizer than many other garden plants, making them a sustainable choice for your garden.
So, as you start planning your garden this year, be sure to include some of these must-have herbs. Whether you have a green thumb or are just starting out, growing your own herbs can be a rewarding and delicious experience. Happy gardening!
