Growing Herbs in Pots Outside
I love to grow my herb plants in strawberry pots (those cute terra cotta pots that have a number of openings in the sides) because I can raise a number of herbs in just one pot. From the spindly kinds to the bushy variety and from the cascading vines to the long spikes, the strawberry pot is ideal. Keep in mind that these containers dry out quickly, so unless you are a diligent waterer you probably will want to stick to plants that are drought resistant.
The size of the pot is very important. A pot that is too little will restrict your herb, eventually causing it to die. Getting a pot too big will send all the nutrients to the bottom of the pot, beyond the reach of the young roots.
Terra cotta pots are a lot better than plastic containers because the terra cotta allows the sod to breathe and healthier sod yields healthier plants. You can find terra cotta containers in lots of fun colors, shapes and sizes which will add interest to your porch or garden.
Regardless of the kind of container you use, you should add some compost to the potting soil before you add your herbs. Now I make my own compost, but you can pick-up compost at a greenhouse or home improvement store. Another thing I like to do is add just a little sand to each container.
Some nice choices for herbs to raise in pots are:
- Dill: With dill, you cannot go wrong. It is without a doubt one of the best choices for an easy herb. Using seeds is a fantastic way to start your dill, and it self-seeds so it can do all the work for the rest of the growing season. As long as you use a pot with good drainage and put it in full sunshine, your dill will grow. Dill is also gratifying in that you can harvest it soon after you plant it because it grows so quickly. The seed heads, flowers and leaves can be frozen or dried for future use if you’re not able to use them right away.
- Garlic: Garlic will do well if you plant it in the spring or fall. Plant it about 2 inches deep with the clove pointing up in well drained sod and direct sun. Add some good compost and water frequently. You will soon notice that the tops of your garlic are bending over which means that it’s all set to be harvested. Unearth the bulbs and cure them on a tabletop for about a week, or until the skin dries to the papery feel that you notice on store-bought garlic. Then you’re ready to enjoy!
- Lavender: Growing your own lavender plants is fabulous, but do not start with seeds because you can be waiting forever. Instead pick-up a small lavender plant at the store and go from there. Use a pot with good drainage that allows for a lot of mulching, but also provides plenty of room for the roots. Lavender loves full sun, so locate a lovely bright place on your stoop or balcony for this cheerful small plant. Dried lavender makes wonderful sachets and potpourris. I suggest you keep them everywhere (really).
- Yarrow: Yarrow is one of those great flowers that comes in a lot of colors and is simply great in dried floral arrangements and wreaths. You can even add this herb in your lotions, soaps and shampoos. For this plant, you can start with seeds or young plants. Unlike many herbs, yarrow is adaptable and therefore able to do well in moist earth as well as well-drained earth. This adaptability also allows it to grow in either a partially shaded place or in full sun. Once it’s in blossom you can harvest the buds and dry them in a cool, dark spot.
Good luck with your herb gardening. Be sure to let me know how your herb garden grows.
Here is more information on Herb Garden In Pots. Here is a website with a free mini-course dedicated to Herb Gardens.
