Spice Up Your Life: Start an Herb Garden This Summer

Fresh Mix of Aromatic Herbs and Greens in Garden Pots

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If you’re thinking about starting a summer garden, let me tell you — planting a herb garden is a game-changer! Not only are herbs easy to grow, but they add incredible fresh flavors to your meals, too. Whether you’re a kitchen pro or just getting started, an herb garden is a fun and rewarding way to boost your cooking, your cocktails, and even your self-care routine.

I started my own herb garden two years ago, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. There’s something so satisfying about snipping fresh rosemary for roasted potatoes or adding homegrown mint to a refreshing summer drink. Plus, my herbs have become a staple in my self-care products — think relaxing lavender scrubs and soothing rosemary-infused oils. Growing my own herbs has been fun, relaxing, and incredibly motivating because I get to create things I love right from my backyard.

Ancient civilizations knew what they were doing when they incorporated herbs into their meals and medicines. Fast forward to today, and herbs are still celebrated for their flavor, fragrance, and health benefits.

If you’re new to gardening, here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Choose the Right Herbs: Basil, rosemary, sage, oregano, thyme, chives, and fennel are great options for beginners. These herbs thrive in sunny locations and can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which is great for your garden’s overall health.

2. Location, Location, Location: Most herbs love sunlight, so pick a sunny spot in your yard or on your patio. Lavender, rosemary, and basil will flourish with plenty of light. On the other hand, mint and cilantro can tolerate some shade, making them more versatile for different garden spaces.

3. Water Wisely: Herbs generally don’t need as much water as vegetables, so be mindful of overwatering. Most herbs prefer soil that drains well.

4. Harvest Regularly: Don’t be afraid to clip your herbs often. Regular harvesting encourages new growth, giving you a fuller, healthier plant.

5. Bring Herbs Indoors: When summer fades, consider moving potted herbs inside to extend their life. Basil, chives, and rosemary can thrive in a sunny windowsill throughout the colder months.

Adding herbs to your garden isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating a space that inspires you to try new things in the kitchen and beyond. For me, the process of tending to my herbs has become a form of self-care. It’s a peaceful moment in my day when I step outside, breathe in those fresh scents, and know that I’m nurturing something beautiful and useful.

Trust me, once you experience the joy of fresh herbs in your cooking, cocktails, mocktails or even skincare products, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner!