Home Herb Garden Advice

If you want to create a herb garden, you need to have a basic knowledge about plants. Herbs can be classified as perennials, biennials or annuals and should be treated accordingly. Knowing a bit more about each of the herb garden plants you want to use will help you decide how and where you will plant them.

Annuals are the classification given to many of the most well loved herbs. As annual plants, these herbs live an entire life cycle in only one growing season. Many of these herbs have beautiful color and long lasting blooms. Chamomile, Chervil, Garlic, Basil and Dill are all considered to be annual herbs.

Perennial plants are those that die back during the cooler months and are dormant during the winter. Still they will return each growing season, bigger and better than they were the year before. This allows you to enjoy the herbs and add their fresh taste to your home cooked dishes without having to replant them each year. Rosemary, thyme, lavender, mint and many of the oregano herbs are all members of the perennial plant family.

Biennial herbs have a life cycle that extends over a 2 year period. When the seeds sprout during the 1st year the plants will grow roots, strong stems and leaves before retreating into dormancy for the first winter. It is only in the 2nd year that the flowers come into bloom and new seeds appear. Angelica and caraway are two of the herbs that are classified as biennials.

You can easily grow herb garden plants outdoors or inside your home. These types of plants need a light soil that is easily drained. Most herbs have minimal water requirements once they have become established. A little pruning is all the extra assistance they need to keep them healthy, happy and thriving.

Herb garden plants are a favorite of cooks and chefs in many countries. Anyone who enjoys robust flavors and spices will appreciate the culinary magic of fresh herbs. Italian and Asian cooks frequently use herbal ingredients in most of their dishes

You can even use herb garden plants for the essential oils and other healing compounds they contain. These are used for the healthy, medicinal effects they have on the body. If used properly many herbs are natural remedies for a variety of different ailments including digestive upsets, small burns, headaches, infections and fevers. Even though these plants are used in many commercial pharmaceutical preparations it is still best to ask your doctor for his opinion before you try them.

Certain oils and fragrances can also be extracted from herb garden plants. Many cosmetics, perfumes, potpourri items, and bath products are made from herbal ingredients. The fresh, light scents of lavender, roses and mints are relaxing and rejuvenating. You can even use some clippings from rosemary, mint or eucalyptus plants to add texture, focal appeal and beauty to a room in your home.

There are a number of herbs in pots that are used to decorate and enhance rooms in a house. Ornamental herbs have been used by people for many centuries because of the beauty and fragrance these plants possess. Bee balm, mint, thyme, lavender and borage are just a few of the herbs that can be used in this manner.

Growing some herb garden plants can be beneficial in many ways once you understand the herbs and know how to use them properly. These plants are low maintenance; able to withstand drought and heat; and can be grown almost anywhere. In return for your time and effort you can have fresh herbal ingredients for your food, naturally beautiful textures to enjoy, and delightful fragrant scents in both your garden and home.

Author: Brenda Valdano
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Mobile device news