Mary asks…
Does anyone grow their own herbs?
I want to grow parsley and I was wondering if anyone grows their own and if it is better than buying them at a store
GardenersCardiff answers:
I grew some basil and some oregano once and it was awesome. The basil was so strong, it was almost hot. When the herbs got just to the point of budding, but not yet blooming, I cut them down and hung them upside down in the garage to dry. This forces all of the essential oils out to the foliage prior to drying. I then cut the stems to fit into mason jars. I didn’t crush them right away. I only did that when I used them. This preserves the oils and keeps the flavor intense long after you cut them.
Sandra asks…
Does anyone grow their own herbs?
I want to grow parsley and I was wondering if anyone grows their own and if it is better than buying them at a store?
GardenersCardiff answers:
I grow parsley–curly leaf and Italian and they are much better tasting than store bought. And I can just take off what I need as I need it. In my last yard, my parsley was uncontrollable–it overwintered, spread seeds everywhere, I was pulling it up, giving it away, my kids were ODing on it. It was crazy.
I also grow chives–that is so cool. It’s oniony and garlicky but delicate all in one. And the green is so pretty in all sorts of dishes. I grow that in a pot tha I planted oh, 9 years ago? That one packet of seeds has really paid off!
Basil–I plant it every year. To me it really signifies summer is here. While I was at Home Depot gathering some new plants, an elderly woman told me she picks her basil leaves and puts them in freezer containers as is, and she uses them all winter. I can’t wait to try this tip!
Lavender–I’m growing this for the first time this year. Not quite sure what to do with it yet, but I love lavender and just enjoy sniffing it every time I go past.
Let’s see, I planted Thyme, oregano and cilantro
Mint– I have to disagree with Christa. I’ve grown mint in my yard since 2000 and never had any problems–not like the killer parsley! We use it in watermelon, mint and lime salad, iced tea with mint, hot mint tea, tobouli salad and just to chew on.
I guarantee that once you start growing herbs, you’ll be hooked. The scent, the taste, the usefulness, the ease…Enjoy! 
Michael asks…
how do i grow my own herb?
im trying to grow my own herbs and i dont know where to start, plus im on a poor mans budget so help me please find the cheapest, idiot proof ways to growing my own herbs….
GardenersCardiff answers:
Most herbs are really pretty forgiving. They like a well drained soil so if you’re using potting soil, mix in some sand and/or vermiculite (very cheap and a little goes a long way).
Herbs need full sun, too so be sure you have a southern exposure for at least 4-6 hours per day.
During the spring it’s easy to find seed packets because everyone is getting ready to plant. At this time of year, I’m not sure what you’ll find in the way of seeds but if you have a local nursery, you should still find some packets available. If they’re packaged for 2008, you may also get a price break – the season is over.
I will assume you already know what kinds of herbs you want, but I would just give you one suggestion:
Mints are VERY pervasive so I’d keep those in a separate pot – otherwise they’ll invade everything else.
Have fun and welcome to the world of Herb Gardens!!
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Lisa asks…
What are your reasons for practicing herbalism and the herbal arts?
I do it for medicinal reasons (alternative medicine), aromatherapy, kitchen (cooking) and spiritually (use in spellcraft). I have my own herb gardens, growing and harvesting for my own use mostly, but I do share when I can.
GardenersCardiff answers:
I studied aromatherapy when i did my massage training, i use it every day, essentail oils are wonderful for many purposes, from a few drops of tee tree down the drain, to a more creative blend for a ritual, and i love using them in the bath of course! I have used home made herbal teas/infusions quite a lot in the last year as i have had some health issues. Cooking as well,we grow quite a few here, but my hens do damage them..and i do buy some.
Donna asks…
Pagans – To grow or to buy?
For those who work with and use herbs do you grow your own, buy or both?
Right now I buy, but I have been thinking of buying an aero garden or two and growing some of my herbs more so because having moved from vegas I can’t grow things outside year round.
GardenersCardiff answers:
I love to garden so my answer is “Grow”. Many herbs attract butterflies, are good in cooking as well. Some butterflies use particular herbs to lay their eggs on (such as the Black swallowtail and parsley). Two of my favorite places to buy herb plants are:
http://www.richters.com/
Great selection!
Good selection and nice to deal with.
With both companies you can request a free catalog.
I’m in zone 5b and there are some herbs that will overwinter or reseed themselves here. Some cultivars of Lavender do fine here but need to be in a raised very well-drained mound with no mulch. To learn about your growing zone, just click on your state:
http://www.growit.com/zones/
Chris asks…
is it worth it to dedicate a room in my house for growing my own food?
me and my family were thinking of turning a room inside into a garden . for one my mom is getting sick of the kitchen having plants everywhere lol ( its where i keep my herb collecton but i have like 30 pots in the kitchen and a couple aerogardens so it gets in the way of everything ) and the prices of vegitables are skyrocketting . and if you produce your own food you know everyhing thats in it right , but my question is … is it worth it to burn lights 24 7 to have an indoor garden , like will i save that much money from the grocery store when i start growing my own … i am doing a garden this year out doors but we wanna have fresh stuff all year round and im making a herb garden somewhere regardless lol
GardenersCardiff answers:
I’ve dedicated one room in my house for growing my own pot. It’s working out really well, so go ahead and give it a try!
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