Herbs - Planning, Planting, and Growing Your Herb Garden - Purchasing and Planting Plants

When purchasing plants, remember to take along a pen and paper to jot down any additional information. Information cards are posted near the plants which contain useful information such as height, spread, uses et cetera. Find a reputable nursery that carries organically grown herbs and ensure the herbs are labeled with both their common and botanical names so you will not be disappointed later.

Pick plants that have signs of new growth and appear to be well rooted. Generally, one or two of each variety is sufficient for normal usage, but if you have a passion for basil or love lavender, then you will likely want more. If the plants appear dry, water them well when you get home and leave them in a protected, sunny location. Bring them in at night for a few days to harden them up before planting them out into your garden or into a larger container. Once all danger of frost has passed (usually the middle to late-May), you may leave them outside or plant them in your garden.

Plants that are at least 4" tall are ready to be planted. Gently tap the plant out of its container and plant about four inches deep or up to the plants bottom set of leaves. Water in well (most herbs prefer to be "puddled in"). This means watering the ground to form a puddle around the plant that will drain into the soil. Most herbs should be spaced at least 12 inches apart, but remember to check the height and spread information when you purchase your plants. Do not worry if your garden looks sparse when finished planting ... it won't for long!