Growing Fresh Herbs and Plants
- 1). Watch how the sun moves around your yard to get an idea of how much sun you get, and how much shade. If you only get a small amount of sun, you may want to grow in containers and move them around with the sun. Containers are also good for apartments and those with concrete yards or with poor soil.
- 2). Obtain a complete soil test from your county extension agent if you plan to grow in ground. These tests give you an idea of what type of nutrients and fertilizer you'll need to add for healthy soil. Once you get the test, purchase the appropriate fertilizer recommended by the test process. If you're growing in containers, skip this step.
- 3). Turn over the soil with your shovel to break apart soil clods. Work to a depth of at least 8 inches. Remove rocks and debris. Once you've turned over the soil, spread the fertilizer over the bed, then turn the fertilizer into the shovel to work it in. Calculate the dose needed based on the square footage of your garden, which is the length times the width times the height of your plot. When you've worked in the fertilizer, smooth out the soil with a rake. If you're gardening in containers, to skip this step.
- 4). Choose your plants and herbs based on your personal preference and the amount of sun you get. The University of Minnesota Extension provides a list of herbs and plants that can grow in the shade (see Resources); this includes mint, basil, chives and many flowers. Then purchase your plants. For a container garden, also purchase containers with drainage holes and well draining potting soil. Herbs and flowering plants need a container that's at least 6 inches wide and 8 inches deep.
- 5). Plan your garden's layout. For container gardens, determine how you'll arrange your containers.
- 6). Dig one hole for each plant that's twice as deep and wide as the plant's root ball. For container gardening, fill your containers no more than one-third full to get started.
- 7). Place one plant in each hole or container. Fill in dirt or potting soil around the plant's root ball to finish planting. Get all plants in the ground like this.
- 8). Water thoroughly, to saturate the soil. Thereafter, water when the soil gets dry to the touch. Container gardens dry out faster than in-ground ones.
- 9). Fertilize your garden with a liquid soluble balanced fertilizer, like 10-10-10. Combine the fertilizer with water, then pour it over your garden in lieu of watering the plants. Use the right dose for the size of your garden.
- 10
Monitor your plants for signs of pest or disease, such as discolored leaves or holes in the leaves. If you have a pest or disease problem, you'll need to diagnose it, then treat it. Your county extension office can help. - 11
Cut herbs and flowers to enjoy them in your home, or use them in the kitchen. If you're growing vegetables, harvest them when they are ready.
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