Yoselin This post is a kid-friendly guide on how to plant an herb garden for beginners.
Whether it’s for you or an activity to do with your children, learning how to grow a successful herb garden is a great skill to have that will teach you and your children self-sufficiency and help you save money on frequently used herbs.
When I began my outdoor vegetable garden, I knew I wanted to have an area dedicated to just herbs.
Because of the simplicity of herbs and how they don’t need a lot of space, I decided to include my daughter in this activity.
With a designated spot for my herbs, it was now time to start an herb garden with my child.
The key to gardening with children is to make the process something that is easily achievable but still give them a new experience.
Because of the age of my daughter, she did not really understand which seeds produce what herbs, but I did guide her into where she needed to place the seeds and then gave her some soil to slightly cover the seeds.
You see, the thing about teaching your children about gardening is that it does not have to be a big activity, it can be as simply as spreading out seeds and calling it a day.
Teaching kids to garden is a skill that they will practice day after day as they continue to help maintaining the herb garden.
Use this kid-friendly and kids guide to gardening to help yourself and your children, as beginners, know how to plant an herb garden.
In this article you will find why you should start an herb garden, what do you teach kids through gardening, my 10 recommended herbs to plant on your herb garden, and herb garden inspirations so you can begin your herb garden today!
How to Plant an Herb Garden for Beginners
Why Should You Start an Herb Garden?
Starting an herb garden can be beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, having fresh herbs readily available can enhance the flavor of your meals and add a touch of freshness to your cooking.
Growing your own herbs can save you money in the long run, as store-bought herbs can be expensive.
Furthermore, cultivating an herb garden can be a rewarding and therapeutic hobby. It allows you to connect with nature, engage in a hands-on activity, and experience the satisfaction of watching your plants grow and thrive.
Herbs are also known for their medicinal properties and can be used for various home remedies. Having access to these natural remedies can be convenient and may contribute to your overall well-being.
Not to mention that having an herb garden can be a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.
Also by growing your own herbs, you reduce the need for transportation and packaging associated with store-bought herbs, thus minimizing your carbon footprint.
What do Kids Learn from an Herb Garden?
Kids can learn a variety of valuable lessons from an herb garden.
They can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for nature and the environment. By observing the growth and life cycle of herbs, children can learn about the importance of sunlight, water, and soil in plant growth, as well as the interdependence of living organisms.
An herb garden also provides an opportunity for children to learn about responsibility and nurturing. They can take on tasks such as watering the plants, weeding, and ensuring proper care.
This hands-on experience teaches them about the importance of consistency, patience, and taking care of living things.
Furthermore, an herb garden can be a great way to introduce children to the concept of healthy eating and nutrition.
Additionally, an herb garden can spark curiosity and encourage children to ask questions about plants, gardening techniques, and the natural world. This can foster their critical thinking skills and promote a sense of wonder and exploration.
10 Herbs to Include in your Herb Garden
When planning your herb garden, here are 10 popular herbs that you may consider including.
1. Basil
Known for its aromatic leaves, basil is commonly used in Italian cuisine and adds a fresh and sweet flavor to dishes.
Basil has been, by far, my most successful herb grown in the South Texas heat.
2. Rosemary
With its distinct pine-like fragrance, rosemary is a versatile herb that can be used in various savory dishes, marinades, and even in baking.
3. Thyme
This herb has a subtle, earthy flavor and is often used in Mediterranean and French cuisines. It pairs well with roasted meats, vegetables, and soups.
4. Mint
Mint is known for its refreshing and cooling properties. It can be used in beverages, desserts, and savory dishes, adding a burst of flavor.
5. Parsley
Widely used as a garnish, parsley has a mild and fresh taste. It can be added to salads, soups, and sauces to enhance the overall flavor.
6. Chives
Chives have a mild onion-like flavor and are commonly used as a garnish or in salads, soups, and creamy sauces.
7. Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, has a distinct citrusy flavor and is commonly used in Mexican, Indian, and Asian cuisines.
8. Dill
Dill has a delicate and tangy flavor that pairs well with fish, pickles, and creamy sauces. It can also be used to add a fresh taste to salads and soups.
9. Sage
With its earthy and slightly peppery flavor, sage is often used in stuffing, roasted meats, and savory dishes.
10. Oregano
Oregano is a staple herb in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines. It has a robust flavor and is commonly used in tomato-based dishes, pizzas, and pasta sauces.
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These are just a few examples of herbs that you can include in your herb garden. The selection can vary based on your personal preferences and the types of dishes you enjoy cooking.
In order to reduce waste, opt for growing herbs that you and your family with use.
Herb Garden Ideas
Below you can find different ways in which you can grow your herb garden. You can use what you have and still be able to grow a successful her garden with your kids.
All of these herb garden ideas are also apartment-friendly.
Raised Garden Bed
Raised beds are elevated garden beds that provide a larger planting area. Elevated garden beds are the perfect herb harden planter.They can be made from wood, stone, or other materials and offer better drainage and soil aeration compared to pots. They are suitable for growing a variety of plants, including vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
Reused Bottles/Milk Cartons (i.e., vertical herb garden)
Vertical gardens utilize vertical space by growing plants on walls or structures. They can be created using hanging planters, wall-mounted containers, or even repurposed materials like water bottles or milk cartons. Vertical gardens can also become a hydroponic herb garden and are ideal for small spaces and can add a unique aesthetic to your surroundings.
5/10-Gallon Pot
Using a big pot can be a great way to save space and keep all your herbs in one place. This method is also low maintenance and a great way to keep all your herbs in one place.
With this method, you can move it indoors if it gets too cold, or for whatever reason neccesary.
Hanging Herb Garden via Baskets
Hanging baskets are a popular alternative to pots, especially if you are choosing to grow your herb garden in a small balcony. They can be suspended from hooks or brackets, allowing you to maximize space and create eye-catching displays.
Window Boxes
You can have an outdoor herb garden by using window boxes. Window boxes are long, narrow containers that are typically mounted beneath windowsills or on railings.
They are an excellent option for adding greenery and color to windows and balconies. Window boxes can accommodate a variety of plants, including flowers, herbs, and small vegetables.
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It is my hope that you found this post about learning how to plant an herb garden for beginners useful.
Let me know down in the comments below if you have any other questions about beginning your herb garden and/or just in general herb gardening with kids!
Frequently Asked Questions
This guide on how to plant an herb garden for beginners covered various topics needed to begin herb gardening with kids. See the frequently asked questions below to go more in-depth on this topic.
Where to Buy Herb Seeds?
You can get starter plants at any big box store such as Wal-Mart, Lowes, and Home Depot.
As for seeds, you can also purchase them at local farmers markets, Sprouts, Lowes, Home Depot, and the Tractor Supply Co.
If you wish you purchase your seeds online, you can purchase them at:
When to Plant an Herb Garden?
The timing for planting an herb garden can vary depending on the specific herbs you plan to grow and your geographical location.
In general, most herbs are best planted in the spring after the last frost has passed. This ensures that the soil has warmed up sufficiently and provides optimal growing conditions for the herbs.
However, it’s important to note that some herbs, such as parsley and cilantro, can tolerate cooler temperatures and can be planted earlier in the spring or even in the fall.
On the other hand, herbs like basil and dill prefer warmer temperatures and should be planted after the danger of frost has passed.
How Easy is it to Grow an Herb Garden?
Growing an herb garden can be relatively easy, especially for beginners. Herbs are generally low-maintenance plants that require minimal care and attention.
Here are a few reasons why growing an herb garden can be considered easy:
1. Adaptability: Most herbs are adaptable and can thrive in various growing conditions. It can be grown as an indoor herb garden or outdoors, depending on the available space and climate.
2. Quick germination: Many herbs have relatively fast germination times, meaning you can see results and progress relatively quickly. This can be encouraging and motivating, especially for children or novice gardeners.
3. Low water requirements: Herbs, in general, do not require excessive watering.
4. Minimal space requirements: Herbs can be grown in small containers, making them suitable for those with limited space, such as apartments or small gardens.
5. Pest and disease resistance: Many herbs have natural properties that make them resistant to pests and diseases. This reduces the need for extensive pest control measures and makes herb gardening easier for beginners.
How Long Does it Take to Grow an Herb Garden?
The time it takes to grow an herb garden can vary depending on several factors, including the specific herbs you choose to grow, the growing conditions, and the methods you use.
Most herbs can be grown from seeds or seedlings and will require a few weeks to germinate and establish themselves. This initial stage can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks, depending on the herb.
Once the herbs have established, they will continue to grow and mature. The time it takes for herbs to reach full maturity and be ready for harvest can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the herb variety.
For example, some fast-growing herbs like basil or cilantro can be ready for harvest within 4-6 weeks, while others like rosemary or sage may take several months to reach their full potential.
It’s important to note that herbs can be harvested at different stages of growth, allowing you to enjoy their flavors and benefits throughout the growing process.
You May Also Like:
- Everything You Need to Know to Start Gardening with Kids
- 10+ Spring Gardening Activities for Kids
- 25 Easy Plant-Based Meals for Families (Veganuary)
- 13 Tips to Raise an Eco-Friendly Toddler
