Prepare the Soil

• To prepare the soil for planting your herb garden, cultivate the soil to a depth of at least 8 inches. Most herbs prefer average soil and require no fertilizer, but a small amount of organic material, such as an inch of compost or manure, worked into the soil is beneficial. Your garden spot requires modification if the soil tends to be on the soggy side. Dig out the top 15 to 18 inches of soil and spread a layer of gravel in the bottom of the bed. Mix the removed soil with sand and replace it, building the soil up so the herb garden is higher than the original level.
  
  

Herbs

• Plant herbs according to your preferences and growing space. Many gardeners prefer an herb garden filled with kitchen herbs such as tarragon, thyme, sage, basil or dill. Others select scented herbs, including rosemary, lavender or lemon balm. Some plants, such as purple sage or tricolor sage, add color to a herb garden. A tea garden filled with mint or chamomile is another option. Often gardeners prefer an herb garden with a mix of colors, sizes and textures.
  
  

Planting Herbs

• Planting herb bedding plants from a garden center or nursery is the quickest way to plant your herb garden, but you can also plant herbs by seed. Some herbs are started indoors in late winter, while others don't transplant well and do best when planted directly in the garden after the soil warms in spring. Read the seed packet to determine the best planting methods for each particular plant.
  
  

Herb Care

• Although herbs require little moisture once established, proper irrigation the first year is crucial. Water the herbs deeply whenever the soil dries, then allow the soil to dry again before the next watering. Watch for pests, and treat any problems immediately, using an organic product such as soap spray. Most herbs shouldn't be fertilized, as rich soil and too much fertilizer will detract from the flavor and quality of the herbs.