Have you been wanting an attractive, useful herb garden but don’t know where to start? An herb garden is a great option for people who enjoy cooking or eating or those who want a backyard medical herb supply. They are also one of the most attractive types of gardens, and many herbs are perennials, coming back year after year. However, it isn’t always easy to know how to get started or how much work will be involved. Choosing between different varieties and plants can be confusing, as well as whether to start with plants or seeds. In addition, some varieties may only be available online, such as marijuana seeds, while others are popular and might be available in a local home and garden store, or even a local dollar store. Regardless of the expense, size, and complexity of your proposed herb garden, however, you will want to follow the same basic planning steps before you will be ready to begin planting.
Choose the Right Location
One of the first things you will need to do when beginning to plan your herb garden is to choose the best location. You will need to find an area that is relatively flat and level, or you will have to level it before planting. You will also need to choose an area that receives enough light. Most herbs thrive in a sunny location, so select an area that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Finally, ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging and amend the soil if needed so that it will grow healthy plants. If your soil or area is not suitable for raising herbs, consider using raised beds or adding organic matter like compost to the soil to help improve drainage.
Determine the Size and Shape
Once you have decided on the location of your garden it is time to plan how large you want it to be. Consider the available space and your requirements to determine the size and shape of your herb garden. It can be a small raised bed, a dedicated section in an existing garden, or even containers placed strategically on a balcony or patio. Some herb gardens are larger and designed like formal gardens with symmetrically located beds and paths. If you don’t need that many herbs but like the look and style of a formal herb garden, consider adding flowers and other plants along with herbs to fill in the beds and create a finished look.
Plan the Layout
Now it is time to plan the actual layout of the herb garden. You will need to choose which kinds of herbs and flowers you want to include and pay close attention to their needs and sizes when you are planning. Decide on the arrangement of your plants and consider grouping herbs with similar water and sunlight requirements together. You should also plan to place taller herbs towards the back or center of your beds and shorter ones towards the front for easy access and to avoid shading. When you are doing this step, try to plan thoroughly but still be flexible so that you can make changes if you need to, such as choosing different varieties if your preferred plants aren’t available or adjusting the layout as needed once you are ready to plant.
Consider Companion Planting
When you are planning your layout, it makes sense to consider companion planting strategies. Some herbs and flowers have beneficial relationships when planted together, while others prefer not to be near each other. For example, planting basil near tomatoes can help repel pests. Research companion planting techniques to optimize the health and productivity of your herb garden.
You can also research the best plants to use for specific gardening needs such as insect- or deer-repelling plants. There are many different plants that can be used to help your garden perform better and make your soil and plants healthier, so it makes sense to use these to your advantage and plan for their inclusion from the beginning.
Incorporate Paths and Access
You should also take some time while planning to consider the best way to incorporate paths into your herb garden. You will want to have easy access to the herbs, ensuring you can reach all plants comfortably for harvesting, watering, and maintenance. You will also want to be able to access your garden easily after heavy rains, as well as avoid weeds and grass in your paths. Choose materials for your paths that will help you to avoid stepping on your plants, that will help to resist weed growth between your garden beds, and that will not become too muddy and sticky during wet weather.
Add Vertical Elements
Many gardeners utilize vertical space by incorporating trellises, stakes, or walls for climbing herbs like thyme, mint, or climbing rosemary. This maximizes space and adds an attractive dimension to your herb garden. While you are planning your garden, take the time to consider if you want to include any vertical elements and how you will construct the trellis or frame for your climbing plants. You could also consider adding other vertical elements like decorative features, water features, or fencing.
Use Edging and Borders
If you want your garden to be long-lasting and attractive, consider adding edging or borders around the area to define the space and prevent grass or weeds from encroaching. This can be done with stones, bricks, wood, or other materials that match your garden’s style. You may want to add actual garden borders that extend into the ground if your garden is going to be planted next to a grassy lawn, as this can help keep the grass from sneaking into the garden through underground rhizomes or roots. Also consider if your garden will need a fence in order to protect it from pets, wildlife, or small children.
Label Your Herbs
Since many herbs can look similar, and different varieties of the same type can taste very different, it makes sense to keep track of what plants you have and where they are. Labeling makes it easier to differentiate between various varieties and remember their specific care requirements. You should consider using plant markers or labels to identify the different herbs in your garden. Some herb gardens make use of attractive, rustic- or formal-looking signs to label plants, such as you would find in a botanical garden or nature center.
Add Decorative Elements
Finally, if you want your herb garden to be attractive as well as practical, add beauty in the form of flowers and decorative elements. Enhance the visual appeal of your herb garden by adding features such as ornamental pots, garden art, or a seating area. Don’t feel like you have to have your garden complete in the first year, however. Even a simple bench or a few dramatic pots can make the space more inviting and enjoyable. You can add more beds, plants, and features as the seasons and years progress.
Conclusion
Planning and planting a new garden can be complicated and daunting. However, if you take it one step at a time it can soon be accomplished. And by taking the time to thoughtfully plan and care for your investment, your herb garden will flourish and provide a bountiful harvest of fresh herbs.
