“You can create a garden space
within your kitchen and reap the
b e n e f i t s o f f r e s h , H e a lt h y h e r b s . ”
BASIL—No self-respecting herb garden can grow proud without basil. This
sweet-tasting, popular herb has an anise, clove-esque aroma. Use it fresh or dried
in a wide selection of different meals, from a classic Bolognese to a tasty accom-
paniment with a salmon dish. Basil comes jam-packed with vitamins A, K,
and C, as well as magnesium, iron, and calcium.
CHIVE—Similar to onions and garlic, growing chives can ward off insect
pests like mosquitos from your herb garden. What’s more, chives are full
of bacteria-fighting antibiotics from their high sulfur content. Chives
also are a natural anti-inflammatory; they’re nature’s ibuprofen.
CORIANDER—Regarded as an essential in any herb garden, coriander
(also commonly known as cilantro) punches above its weight. It is high
in vitamin C and can aid digestion, relieve inflammation, and balance
blood sugar levels. Its potent flavor and smell makes a perfect season-
ing for meats, salsas, and oriental dishes. Also, coriander seeds add
warmth and spice to chicken, vegetables, and soups.
Choose and Prepare Pots
It is essential that you get pots that can drain well. Start by
filling your pot with a potting mix, leaving a half inch of soil
between the top of the pot and the potting mix. You can find a
lot of funky vintage pots online or you could upcycle some old
furniture. Once you have your pots, you can plant your herb
seeds and water them thoroughly. Allow them to drain until
they stop dripping, then place the pots on the windowsill with
a tray underneath to catch any last drips of water.
Kitchen Garden Maintenance
Herbs are a sensitive bunch and they will need tender loving
care to survive. A snip here and a prune there is essential
for a bigger harvest and sturdier herbs. Remember to cut
any new growth a minimum of once per week and when
new stems grow out.
Turn your pots at regular intervals, especially if they
are directly in front of a sunny window. This will make
sure that they grow evenly and prevents the side in the
shade from undue neglect.
Of the most important things to remember, watering is
a priority. Place small gravel in a tray and put your herb
pots on the tray. Fill the tray up to the top with water
once per week. Your herbs will absorb what they need
from the bottom of the pots.
Keep an eye on your herb garden. In time, you will notice
when your herbs are dehydrated or need more light as they
change color and appearance. Once they are thriving, you
can take pride in cutting a few herbs from your windowsill to
complement your favorite meals.
Maximum Yield
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