Herb Garden for the Gourmet
by Riccardo Calder
http://www.yaherbs.com
Did you ever notice how the best recipes call for fresh
herbs? Rather than using the dried up equivalents found in
the spice aisle of a grocery store, many gourmet recipes
want the fresh flavor of homegrown herbs. These herbs have
a delightful and zesty flavor that adds a lot to the value
of a dish. Where do the serious gourmets turn for their
herbs when an ordinary grocery store only carry spices for
the mediocre taste bud? Many cooks grow their own herbs in
an indoor garden. In pursuit of that right flavor and aroma
in a dish, many cooks are willing to put forth the extra
time and effort to have completely fresh herbs on-hand.
If herbs have a delicate flavor, does that mean the plant is
also delicate? Don~t let their delicate flavor mislead you
into thinking the herb plant is also delicate. In fact,
many herbs grow so hardy that they are labeled ~invasive~.
In garden language, that means herb plants will totally
dominate and take over an area. To save your garden from
this invasiveness, it~s much simpler to grow herbs indoors
in a dedicated location. Begin your garden by picking out a
variety of small to medium flowerpots with drainage holes.
Your selection looks best if the pots match your d~cor. The
herbs that you select should interest you and maybe even
look good in your room~s surroundings. When you scoop in
potting soil, be sure to prepare the soil according to the
bag~s planting directions.
Once you decide which herbs are your favorites, you can give
these plants a try. To start out a herbal garden, you can
choose some of the more common varieties: basil, sage,
chive, thyme and rosemary. Some places to purchase your
seed packets are from your local greenhouse or nursery.
When local garden centers are closed, purchase of seed
packets are always available online. Follow the package
directions to make sure your planting the tiny seeds
correctly and not too deep.
While people think the window sill is a great place to put
plants so they can get sun, by the window will be too cold
for your seedlings, especially if you live in a cold
climate. Position the flower pots so that the plants will
get sun for about six to eight hours per day. Water your
herbs when the top of the soil in the pot feels dry. If
you are afraid of watering plants, there is a
thermometer-like device that lists plant names available
from garden centers. You simply place this thermometer in
the soil and it tells you whether your type of plant needs
water. Be sure to have a plastic drip pan for flower pots
to catch the water that drains through the drain holes.
If you don~t think you can grow a garden on your own,
consider purchasing the Chia pet, which is made for anyone
to grow. As your herbs grow, simply sheer off the fresh
herb with a kitchen scissors. In no time, you~ll find out
why these homegrown herbs are so much better tasting inside
your homemade gourmet dishes.
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