May 16, 2013 /

Planting Herbs In Containers

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With the arrival of warmer weather, I decided to take a chance and plant my deck herbs, hoping Massachusetts won’t face any more cold snaps this spring. I love growing herbs in containers because they are not only convenient—just a few steps away from the kitchen—but also add a charming touch to the deck once they’re in full bloom.

If you’re considering starting your own container herb garden, here are some helpful tips to ensure success:

Choose the Right Location

Herbs thrive when they receive plenty of sunlight. Find a spot that gets full sun or at least partial sunlight during the day. A well-lit area will help your herbs grow strong and flavorful.

Ensure Proper Drainage

Good drainage is crucial when planting herbs in containers. Most herbs, like many plants, dislike sitting in waterlogged soil. Make sure your pots have drainage holes to prevent excess water from accumulating. At the same time, monitor your plants regularly to ensure they don’t dry out, especially during hot or windy weather.

Use Fresh Potting Mix

For the best results, start each growing season with fresh potting mix. This provides essential nutrients and ensures your herbs have the ideal growing conditions. Begin by thoroughly cleaning out any old soil from your containers to remove residual debris or pests.

To prevent soil from spilling out of the drainage holes, place a coffee filter over them before adding soil. This simple step keeps your deck clean while maintaining proper drainage.

Add Filler Rocks for Efficiency

Consider placing a layer of filler rocks at the bottom of each container. This reduces the amount of potting mix required while promoting better water drainage.

Enhance Soil with Organic Matter

This year, I began incorporating cow manure into my containers after reading about its benefits at Nest of Posies. If the idea of cow manure makes you hesitant, rest assured: gardening-grade cow manure is processed, odor-free, and remarkably effective. A small amount—just a handful at the base of each plant—can provide nutrients to support healthy growth.

I purchased organic cow manure compost from a local store for about $2.50 per bag, making it an affordable and eco-friendly choice.

A Family Lesson in Fertilizer

When I mentioned my cow manure discovery to my mother, who grew up on a farm in Ireland, she wasn’t surprised. “Why do you think Ireland is called the Emerald Isle?” she joked, referring to the combination of rich soil, ample rain, and abundant sunshine that supports its lush vegetation. Her remark inspired me to hope that this natural fertilizer might work its magic on my modest herb garden in Massachusetts too.

Basil: A Solo Superstar

Basil, shown on the right, thrives best when given its own container. With a little attention and consistent care, it can grow into a robust plant. Its versatility makes it perfect for a variety of dishes, from homemade pesto to a classic caprese salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Delicious and fragrant, basil is a must-have for your herb garden.

Herb Pairings in One Pot

In the center pot, I combined thyme, parsley, and rosemary. These herbs not only grow well together but also create a beautiful display of textures and scents. For an extra touch, I added a few flowers to the mix. Combining herbs with blooms not only enhances the aesthetic but also attracts pollinators to your garden.

Mint: The Deck Favorite

Mint is a wonderful herb to grow, but it’s notorious for its invasive nature in traditional gardens. Planting it in a container keeps it contained and manageable. While I don’t use mint extensively in cooking, I love its invigorating scent on the deck. Plus, it’s perfect for summer mojitos with friends—cheers to sunny days ahead!

Hardy Herbs Like Chives

Chives are incredibly resilient. Even when left outside all winter, exposed to freezing temperatures and snow, they bounce back in the spring, ready for another season. I’ve also added wild green onions from my garden to this pot, creating a hardy and productive mix.

Terra Cotta Pots: A Special Note

Unglazed terra cotta pots are classic and charming, but they dry out quickly, especially in summer. Be sure to check the soil moisture regularly and water as needed. Decorating terra cotta pots is a fun project for kids. About a decade ago, my kids and I used paint markers to personalize some pots, and one of them, dedicated to my grandmother, has held up beautifully through the years. Strangely, everything I plant in that pot seems to flourish—thanks, Gram, for the extra blessing!

Herb Markers from Wine Corks

Labeling your herbs can be both practical and creative. I’ve been using wine cork markers for years. To make them, pre-drill a small hole in the cork to widen the existing corkscrew hole, making it easier to insert a wooden skewer.

However, a word of caution: wooden skewers and corks can develop mildew if exposed to prolonged wet conditions, such as during a rainy summer. To avoid this, consider using stainless steel skewers for a more durable, mildew-resistant option. Even if you need to refresh your markers annually, they remain an easy and charming addition to your container garden.

A Thoughtful Gift Idea

A set of potted herbs with custom markers makes a wonderful gift for Mother’s Day or spring birthdays. Pairing this with decorative pots adds a personal and thoughtful touch.

In just a few weeks, your herbs can transform into lush, overflowing plants. Their beauty and practicality make container gardening a rewarding endeavor.

So, why not find some thyme to plant your herb garden this year? You’ll be glad you did!

To share inspiration with others, here are two fantastic blogs worth exploring:

Check them out for even more tips and projects to spark your creativity!

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