Growing your own herbs is easy. Herbs are very hardy. Get yourself some
well-drained, good-quality soil--build a raised bed if you don't have good
soil available.
I'd advise you to purchase plants from your local nursery, since you get
immediate gratification and you don't need but one individual of most herbs
in order to satisfy your home requirements. As you plant, remember that
most herbs get large. Give them plenty of room to grow. And most require a
good amount of sun to thrive.
A good selection to start with might be parsley (curly-leaf or Italian or
both), dill (which is much beloved by some caterpillars, so don't count on
harvesting much, but you'll be doing a great favor for the butterfly
population and you'll enjoy it while it lasts), thyme (there are many
varieties), marjoram, oregano (again, many varieties), pineapple sage (the
leaves are great in salads), garlic chives (also a good butterfly plant,
but they just visit the flowers), and depending on where you live, tarragon
or Mexican Mint Marigold (a hot climate substitute). Scented geraniums are
a pleasure and the leaves--particularly of the rose variety--are great
mixed with lowfat cream cheese and sour cream in a geranium cream with
berry sauce.
Most of all, herbs are fun. If you want to get into medicinals, comfrey is
nice to have, and fresh cammomile tea is a pleasure.
Be careful with true mints. They will take over your garden. Some folks
sink a metal can (like alarge coffee can) in the ground around their mint
plants in order to keep them from spreading too far.
There are so many options and you will enjoy herb gardening once you get
started. Pick up a book at the library and try to find one that is
particular to your locale for the best help. You may also have a herb
society/club where you live and can get great hints from members.
Good luck!
Susan Hughes
San Antonio, TX
------------------------------