Plants are herbs not because of the type of plant they are but because of the use we make of them. Herbs are plants that we value for their taste, aroma or perceived medicinal values. So they can be any kind of plant: trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals or vines. They may be tall, short, woody, soft woods or leafy. They can be tropical, semitropical, temperate, cold climate or even artic.
Culinary herbs are those herbs that we value because of the flavor they add to our food. Herbs are important in our food because they often define a culinary culture. If I say “basil”, you probably think Italian. Herbs have also been used in food to preserve food or extend the useful like of foods. Hot curries are a good example since some of the compounds in them not only discourage the faint hearted from eating them, they discourage microbial growth as well. Aromatic herbs add pleasant scents to our homes and gardens and medicinal herbs are considered to convey health benefits.
So why should you grow herbs in your garden? Price is a serious consideration. Herbs have gotten really pricey at the grocery store—particularly if you are using fresh herbs. Sometimes, the herb you want is not readily available at the store or you may be an impulsive cook who needs them on hand when the mood calls. Many herbs are also lovely plants and so you might consider using them as part of your landscaping!
Here are some basic thoughts about starting your herb garden.
(1) Many different herbs go by the same name even though they are not actually related to each other. Oregano is a good example. Mexican oregano and Mediterranean oregano are not related in any way. So when we say “oregano” we are actually talking about a taste rather than a plant. So if one plant won’t grow in your area, there may be another with the same flavor that will.
(2) Learn the varieties that you want to grow and start with a basic portfolio of herbs.
(3) Be mindful that some things are just not going to grow where you live!
Successful Growing Environments
Location Needs: Most herbs that grow well in Gonzales County will come from climates similar to ours. They will also do best
Texas is a year round gardening adventure. Some herbs will do best here in the summer and others grow best in the winter. You should know when to plant various herbs and which are annuals vs perennials. If I only had a nickel for every gardener who has told me that they can’t grow basil. “It did fine all summer and then it died.” No wonder. It’s an annual.
Dedicated or Mixed: While you may enjoy having a dedicated herb garden, you may have better luck mixing your herbs in with other plants in you gardens. It’s hard to find a location with the perfect mix of shade, soil, water and companions for all the herbs you will want to grow.
Consider using your small herbs as garden borders. Winter savory comes to mind. An English thyme makes a great bottom plant in a large pot.
Culinary herbs are those herbs that we value because of the flavor they add to our food. Herbs are important in our food because they often define a culinary culture. If I say “basil”, you probably think Italian. Herbs have also been used in food to preserve food or extend the useful like of foods. Hot curries are a good example since some of the compounds in them not only discourage the faint hearted from eating them, they discourage microbial growth as well. Aromatic herbs add pleasant scents to our homes and gardens and medicinal herbs are considered to convey health benefits.
So why should you grow herbs in your garden? Price is a serious consideration. Herbs have gotten really pricey at the grocery store—particularly if you are using fresh herbs. Sometimes, the herb you want is not readily available at the store or you may be an impulsive cook who needs them on hand when the mood calls. Many herbs are also lovely plants and so you might consider using them as part of your landscaping!
Here are some basic thoughts about starting your herb garden.
(1) Many different herbs go by the same name even though they are not actually related to each other. Oregano is a good example. Mexican oregano and Mediterranean oregano are not related in any way. So when we say “oregano” we are actually talking about a taste rather than a plant. So if one plant won’t grow in your area, there may be another with the same flavor that will.
(2) Learn the varieties that you want to grow and start with a basic portfolio of herbs.
(3) Be mindful that some things are just not going to grow where you live!
Successful Growing Environments
Location Needs: Most herbs that grow well in Gonzales County will come from climates similar to ours. They will also do best
- In afternoon shade
- Raised beds or pots
- Rich soils
- Most prefer not so much water
Texas is a year round gardening adventure. Some herbs will do best here in the summer and others grow best in the winter. You should know when to plant various herbs and which are annuals vs perennials. If I only had a nickel for every gardener who has told me that they can’t grow basil. “It did fine all summer and then it died.” No wonder. It’s an annual.
Dedicated or Mixed: While you may enjoy having a dedicated herb garden, you may have better luck mixing your herbs in with other plants in you gardens. It’s hard to find a location with the perfect mix of shade, soil, water and companions for all the herbs you will want to grow.
Consider using your small herbs as garden borders. Winter savory comes to mind. An English thyme makes a great bottom plant in a large pot.