If you’re a kitchen gardener looking to enhance the flavors of your dishes, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll explore the best culinary herbs that every kitchen gardener should consider planting. From the aromatic and versatile basil to the fragrant and vibrant lavender, these herbs not only add a burst of freshness to your cooking but also provide a multitude of health benefits. Get ready to elevate your culinary creations to a whole new level as we delve into the world of culinary herbs!
Basil
Varieties of Basil
When it comes to basil, there are several exciting varieties to choose from. The most common and widely used is sweet basil, which has a delightful aroma and a slightly peppery taste. If you’re looking for a more unique flavor, you can try Thai basil, which has a touch of licorice flavor. Lemon basil is another popular option, lending a citrusy twist to your dishes. There’s also purple basil, which adds a beautiful pop of color to any garden. With so many varieties available, you can experiment and find the perfect basil for your culinary creations.
Growing Basil
Growing basil is relatively easy, making it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice gardeners. Basil thrives in warm weather, so it’s best to plant it after the last frost in an area with full sun. Start by planting the seeds or young seedlings in well-drained soil. Make sure to space them about 12 inches apart to allow proper airflow. Regular watering and a layer of mulch will help keep the soil moist and prevent weed growth. With proper care and attention, your basil plants will grow tall and lush, ready to provide you with tasty leaves for months to come.
Caring for Basil Plants
To ensure healthy and productive basil plants, it’s essential to provide them with the right care. Basil enjoys regular watering, but make sure not to overdo it as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. It’s best to water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. Fertilizing every four to six weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer will supply the plants with necessary nutrients. Additionally, pinching off any flower buds that appear will encourage the plant to focus its energy on leaf growth, resulting in a more bountiful harvest.
Harvesting and Storing Basil
When it comes to harvesting basil, the best time is in the morning when the leaves are at their freshest. You can either snip off individual leaves or cut off whole branches near the base. Remember to leave at least a few sets of leaves on the plant to promote continued growth. Once harvested, give the leaves a gentle wash and pat them dry with a paper towel. To store basil, you can place the completely dry leaves in a ziplock bag and store them in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can freeze them in ice cube trays with a little water for easy use in soups and sauces.
Using Basil in Cooking
Basil has an incredible versatility in the kitchen and can elevate the flavors of a wide variety of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with tomatoes, making it a staple in Italian cuisine. Add it to your homemade pasta sauce or use it to make a classic Caprese salad. Basil also adds a delightful freshness to pesto, which can be tossed with pasta or drizzled over grilled vegetables. For those feeling adventurous, try infusing basil into oils and vinegars for a unique flavor twist. Don’t forget to add a few shredded basil leaves as a garnish to your favorite dishes to enhance their visual appeal.
Parsley
Flat-leaf Parsley vs. Curly Parsley
When it comes to parsley, the two most common varieties are flat-leaf parsley and curly parsley. Flat-leaf parsley, also known as Italian parsley, has a robust flavor with a hint of citrus, making it a fantastic addition to many dishes. It is especially popular in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European cuisines. On the other hand, curly parsley has a milder flavor and is often used more for its decorative purposes rather than its taste. Both varieties have their own unique characteristics, so it’s worth experimenting with both to see which one you prefer.
Growing Parsley
Growing parsley is relatively straightforward, making it an excellent herb for beginners. It’s a biennial plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in two years. Start by planting the seeds in rich, well-draining soil in an area with partial shade. Water the seeds regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out to ensure proper spacing, allowing them to reach their full potential. Parsley can take a few weeks to germinate, so be patient and provide the seeds with adequate warmth and moisture. With the right care, you’ll soon have a flourishing parsley plant ready to enhance your culinary creations.
Caring for Parsley Plants
To keep your parsley plants healthy and productive, it’s important to provide them with the care they need. Parsley enjoys regular watering, but make sure not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Water deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid getting the foliage wet as it can increase the risk of disease. It’s also beneficial to mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weed growth. Additionally, fertilizing every three to four weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer will help ensure your parsley plants receive the necessary nutrients for vigorous growth.
Harvesting and Storing Parsley
When it comes to harvesting parsley, it’s best to wait until the plant has reached a decent size with several leafy stems. Start by snipping off the outer stems from the base of the plant, leaving the inner stems to continue growing. Harvesting this way will encourage the plant to produce new growth, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh leaves. To store parsley, wash the leaves thoroughly and allow them to dry completely. Once dry, you can chop the leaves and freeze them in airtight containers or freeze them as whole stems, storing them in freezer bags. Another option is to place the stems in a jar of water in the fridge like a bouquet of flowers to keep them fresh for a few days.
Using Parsley in Cooking
Parsley is a versatile herb that adds a vibrant freshness to a wide range of dishes. It is commonly used as a garnish, adding a pop of green to soups, stews, and salads. However, parsley is not just a pretty face; it also imparts a pleasant flavor. Add it to your homemade marinades or sprinkle it over roasted vegetables for an extra burst of taste. Parsley pesto is a great alternative to the traditional basil pesto, offering a unique twist to pasta or sandwiches. You can also mix parsley with other herbs like basil or mint to create flavorful herb butters that can be slathered over bread or used in cooking. The possibilities are endless with this versatile herb.
Mint
Types of Mint
Mint is a refreshing and aromatic herb that comes in various delightful flavors. Spearmint is the most commonly found variety and is known for its sweet and minty taste. Peppermint, with its stronger menthol flavor, is often used in candies and teas. If you’re looking for a hint of citrus in your mint, you can try orange mint or apple mint. Chocolate mint boasts a unique flavor reminiscent of mint chocolate chip ice cream. With so many options, you can experiment and find the perfect mint variety to suit your taste preferences.
Growing Mint
Mint is a vigorous herb that grows well in most conditions, but it’s worth noting that it can be quite invasive. It’s best to plant mint in containers or designated areas to prevent it from taking over your garden. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil, and either plant mint seedlings or propagate from cuttings. Mint requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist. However, make sure not to overwater as mint prefers slightly moist soil rather than waterlogged conditions. With proper care, you’ll soon have a flourishing mint plant ready to be enjoyed in various culinary creations.
Caring for Mint Plants
Caring for mint plants is relatively low maintenance, but there are a few key things to keep in mind. Mint enjoys consistently moist soil, so regular watering is essential. However, make sure not to let the soil become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. Additionally, providing a layer of mulch around the plants will help retain moisture and suppress weed growth. It’s also important to regularly pinch back the growing tips to promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. This can be done by snipping off the top few inches of each stem. Pruning the mint plants in early spring will also help invigorate growth and keep them in check.
Harvesting and Storing Mint
When it comes to harvesting mint, pluck the leaves as needed throughout the growing season. The leaves are at their most aromatic and flavorful just before the plant flowers. You can either harvest individual leaves or cut off entire stems near the base. Make sure to avoid harvesting more than one-third of the plant at a time to allow for continued growth and vitality. To store mint, wash the leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. You can then store them in a sealed plastic bag or container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, mint leaves can be dried by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area.
Using Mint in Cooking
Mint is a versatile herb that adds a refreshing zing to both sweet and savory dishes. It’s a key ingredient in many popular Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. Add chopped mint leaves to salads or use them as a topping for grilled meats and vegetables. Mint is also famous for its role in various refreshing beverages, such as mojitos and mint lemonade. Infuse mint into tea for a soothing and aromatic drink. Furthermore, mint can be used in desserts, whether it’s sprinkling fresh mint leaves over ice cream or incorporating mint syrup into your homemade chocolate treats. The bold flavor and invigorating aroma of mint are sure to delight your taste buds.
Cilantro
Growing Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander in some regions, is a herb with a unique flavor loved by many. It is a cool-season herb, meaning it prefers milder temperatures and can bolt, or start flowering prematurely, in hot weather. To grow cilantro, plant the seeds directly in the ground or in containers with well-draining soil. Cilantro thrives in partial shade or cooler areas of your garden. Make sure to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering as cilantro can be prone to root rot. With proper care and attention, you’ll soon have a bountiful supply of cilantro leaves to enhance your culinary adventures.
Caring for Cilantro Plants
To ensure healthy cilantro plants, provide them with the care they need. Cilantro enjoys regular watering, especially during dry spells or hot weather, to prevent the soil from drying out. However, good drainage is equally important to prevent waterlogging. Cilantro is a relatively fast-growing herb, so regular fertilization is recommended to promote vigorous growth. Using an organic fertilizer every four to six weeks will supply the plants with the necessary nutrients for optimal development. Additionally, it’s crucial to monitor the plants for signs of bolting. If you notice the plants starting to produce flowers, it’s best to harvest the leaves immediately to prevent any loss of flavor.
Harvesting and Storing Cilantro
When it comes to harvesting cilantro, it’s important to strike the right balance between early and late harvest. If you wait too long, the leaves can become bitter and lose their distinctive flavor. The ideal time to harvest cilantro is when the plants have developed a decent number of leafy stems. Simply snip off the outer stems near the base of the plant, leaving the inner stems to continue growing. After harvesting, thoroughly wash the cilantro leaves and allow them to dry completely. You can then store them in a sealed plastic bag or container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, cilantro leaves can be frozen for longer storage. Another option is to place the stems in a jar of water like a bouquet of flowers to keep them fresh for a few days.
Using Cilantro in Cooking
Cilantro is a versatile herb that adds a distinct flavor to many dishes. It is a staple in Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisines. Incorporate chopped cilantro leaves into salsas, guacamole, or pico de gallo for a fresh and vibrant taste. Cilantro is also commonly used as a garnish for curries, soups, and salads. The bright green leaves add visual appeal and a burst of flavor. For those who enjoy experimenting with bold flavors, cilantro can be used to make chimichurri sauce or mixed into rice dishes for an added zing. Get creative and let cilantro be the star ingredient in your favorite recipes.
Rosemary
Growing Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant and resilient herb that is perfect for both kitchen gardens and ornamental purposes. It prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil and thrives in areas with mild winters. Rosemary can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or ready-to-plant seedlings. Ensure that the soil is slightly dry before watering, as rosemary prefers drier conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to strike a balance. Regular pruning will help maintain a compact and bushy shape. With its beautiful needle-like leaves and delightful fragrance, rosemary will surely become a standout in your garden.
Caring for Rosemary Plants
Caring for rosemary plants is relatively straightforward, given their resilience. As mentioned earlier, rosemary doesn’t like excessive moisture, so watering should be done sparingly. Instead, focus on providing ample sunlight and well-draining soil for optimal growth. Since rosemary is a slow-growing herb, it doesn’t require much fertilizer. An organic slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring should be sufficient. Pruning is an important aspect of rosemary care, as it helps maintain a compact shape and promotes bushier growth. Prune the plant regularly, removing dead or damaged branches to keep it healthy and vibrant.
Harvesting and Storing Rosemary
Harvesting rosemary can be done throughout the year, but the best time is in the morning when the essential oils are at their peak. Simply snip off sprigs from the plant, choosing the youngest and most tender stems. Avoid harvesting more than one-third of the plant at a time to allow for continued growth. Freshly harvested rosemary can be used immediately in your culinary creations. To store rosemary, hang the sprigs upside down in a cool, dry place. Once dried, you can remove the leaves from the stems and store them in a sealed container away from light and heat. Dried rosemary can be kept for up to a year, ensuring a steady supply of this aromatic herb.
Using Rosemary in Cooking
Rosemary is a versatile herb that pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Its distinct resinous and pine-like taste complements roasted meats, potatoes, and root vegetables. Sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves over roasted chicken or beef to infuse them with a delightful aroma. Blend rosemary into your bread dough for a fragrant homemade loaf. Additionally, rosemary-infused oils or vinegars can be used as a flavorful base for dressings or marinades. Rosemary can also add depth to sweet dishes like desserts and cocktails. Experiment with adding rosemary to your favorite recipes and let it elevate the flavors to new heights.
Thyme
Growing Thyme
Thyme is a versatile herb known for its aromatic leaves and tiny purple flowers. It is a popular choice for kitchen gardens due to its wide range of culinary uses. Thyme prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil. It can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or ready-to-plant seedlings. Thyme has a slow growth rate, so be patient with its progress. To ensure proper growth, water the plants regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Consider adding a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth. With its delicate leaves and beautiful flowers, thyme will add both beauty and flavor to your garden.
Caring for Thyme Plants
Caring for thyme plants is relatively simple, making them an excellent choice for kitchen gardeners. Thyme prefers slightly dry conditions, so make sure not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Regular pruning will help maintain a compact and bushy shape. Prune thyme plants in early spring to encourage fresh growth, and remove any dead or woody stems. Fertilization is not necessary for thyme, as it thrives in nutrient-poor soil. However, if you notice a lack of vigor, you can apply a balanced organic fertilizer sparingly.
Harvesting and Storing Thyme
Thyme is best harvested when the leaves are young and tender, just before the plant starts to flower. Simply snip off the sprigs from the plant, choosing the freshest and healthiest stems. To preserve the flavor of thyme, it’s recommended to harvest before flowering occurs. A gentle wash and thorough drying are essential before using or storing thyme. For long-term storage, you can air dry the sprigs by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area with good airflow. Once dried, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in a sealed container away from light and heat. Properly dried thyme can retain its flavor for up to a year.
Using Thyme in Cooking
Thyme is a staple herb in many cuisines due to its versatility and distinctive flavor. It pairs perfectly with roasted meats, vegetables, and potatoes. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over roasted chicken or beef to infuse them with a warm and earthy aroma. Incorporate thyme into stuffing or marinades for additional depth of flavor. Thyme can also be used in stews, soups, and pasta dishes, adding a fragrant touch. Infuse thyme into oils, vinegars, or butter to create flavorful bases for dressings, sauces, or sautéing. The delicate leaves and enchanting fragrance of thyme will undoubtedly enhance your culinary creations.
Oregano
Growing Oregano
Oregano is a staple herb in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its robust flavor and versatility. Growing oregano is relatively easy, making it a popular choice for kitchen gardens. Oregano prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil. It can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or ready-to-plant seedlings. Start by planting oregano in the ground or in containers, ensuring they have enough space to spread. Water the plants regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering. Consider adding a layer of mulch to retain moisture and discourage weed growth. With the right conditions, oregano will thrive and continue to provide you with its aromatic leaves for years to come.
Caring for Oregano Plants
Caring for oregano plants requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for kitchen gardeners. Oregano prefers slightly dry conditions, so be careful not to overwater. Water the plants regularly but ensure the soil has the opportunity to dry out between waterings. It’s also important to provide good airflow around the plants to prevent fungal diseases. Pruning the plants regularly will help maintain a compact shape and promote bushy growth. Prune oregano in early spring, removing any dead or woody stems. Fertilization is generally not necessary for oregano, as it grows well in nutrient-poor soil. However, if you notice a lack of vigor, an organic fertilizer can be applied sparingly.
Harvesting and Storing Oregano
Oregano leaves can be harvested as needed throughout the growing season. Simply snip off sprigs from the plant, adding a burst of flavor to your culinary creations. Oregano is at its peak just before flowering, so it’s best to harvest the leaves before this stage. Thoroughly wash the leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel before using or storing. To store oregano, you can air dry the sprigs by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area. Once dried, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in a sealed container away from light and heat. Properly dried oregano can be stored for up to a year, maintaining its flavor and potency.
Using Oregano in Cooking
Oregano is a versatile herb that adds a bold and distinctive flavor to countless dishes. It is a key ingredient in Italian and Greek cuisines, enhancing the flavors of pizza, pasta, and various tomato-based dishes. Sprinkle oregano over grilled vegetables or roasted meats to add a zesty touch. Mix oregano with olive oil, garlic, and lemon to create a flavorful marinade for chicken or fish. Oregano can also be used in salad dressings, soups, and stews, offering a delightful twist. With its robust taste and enticing aroma, oregano is bound to elevate the flavors of your favorite meals.
Chives
Growing Chives
Chives are a popular herb known for their mild onion-like flavor and delicate leaves. Growing chives is relatively easy, making them a great addition to any kitchen garden. Chives can be grown from seeds, bulb divisions, or ready-to-plant young plants. They prefer a sunny location with well-draining soil. Plant the seeds or bulbs in groups, allowing them to grow in clumps. Make sure to provide adequate water during the growing season, as chives thrive in moist soil. Regular fertilization is not necessary for chives, as they can grow well in nutrient-poor soil. With proper care, you’ll soon have a flourishing chive plant ready to enhance your favorite dishes.
Caring for Chive Plants
Caring for chive plants is relatively low maintenance, making them an ideal choice for kitchen gardeners. Chives enjoy consistent moisture, so regular watering is important, especially during dry periods. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot. Adequate drainage is crucial to prevent such issues. Chives don’t require much fertilization, but you can apply a balanced organic fertilizer once in early spring to ensure healthy growth. Regular harvesting by snipping off leaves will also help promote fresh growth and keep the plant tidy. With their slender leaves and delicate purple flowers, chive plants will add grace and flavor to your garden.
Harvesting and Storing Chives
Harvesting chives can be done throughout the growing season, starting when the plants reach approximately six inches in height. To harvest, snip off the leaves at the base, leaving about an inch of the stems to encourage regrowth. Chives are at their freshest and most flavorful just before flowering, so try to harvest before this stage. Thoroughly wash the harvested leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel. To store chives, you can either place them in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage. Another option is to chop the leaves and mix them with olive oil or butter, freezing them in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Using Chives in Cooking
Chives are a versatile herb that adds a subtle onion-like flavor to various dishes. They are often used as a garnish due to their vibrant green color and delicate appearance. Sprinkle chopped chives over scrambled eggs or omelets to add a burst of flavor. Mix chopped chives with cream cheese or sour cream to create a savory dip or spread. Chives can also be added to salads, soups, and baked potatoes for a delightful lift. The possibilities are endless with this versatile herb, making it a must-have in any kitchen garden.
Dill
Growing Dill
Dill is an herb known for its feathery leaves and distinctive flavor that adds a fresh and tangy taste to dishes. Growing dill is relatively easy, making it a great herb for both experienced and novice gardeners. Dill prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil. It can be grown from seeds or ready-to-plant seedlings. Start by planting the seeds directly in the ground or in containers with sufficient space for the plants to grow. Water the seeds regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. With its delicate foliage and beautiful yellow flowers, dill will not only enhance your culinary creations but also bring beauty to your garden.
Caring for Dill Plants
Caring for dill plants is relatively low maintenance, making them an excellent choice for kitchen gardeners. Dill enjoys consistent moisture, so regular watering is important, especially during dry spells. However, make sure not to overwater, as dill prefers slightly moist soil rather than waterlogged conditions. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Dill doesn’t require much fertilization, as it grows well in nutrient-poor soil. However, if you notice a lack of vigor, a balanced organic fertilizer can be applied sparingly. Regular pruning by snipping off any flowers that appear will help extend the plant’s lifespan and promote leaf growth.
Harvesting and Storing Dill
Harvesting dill can be done throughout the growing season, starting when the plant reaches approximately six inches in height. To preserve the flavor of dill, it’s best to harvest the leaves before the plant starts producing flowers. Simply snip off sections of the main stem, including the leaves and feathery fronds. The leaves can be used fresh or dried. Thoroughly wash the harvested leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel. To store dill, you can either air dry the stems by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area, or freeze the leaves for longer storage. Properly dried or frozen dill will retain its flavor for several months.
Using Dill in Cooking
Dill is a versatile herb that adds a unique flavor to many dishes. It pairs particularly well with seafood, giving a fresh and tangy twist to fish or shrimp dishes. Mix chopped dill leaves with sour cream and lemon juice to create a delicious dip for vegetables or a perfect accompaniment to smoked salmon. Add dill to salads, soups, or dressings for an extra layer of flavor. Dill also works well in pickling recipes, giving that unmistakable dill pickle taste. Get creative and experiment with incorporating dill into your favorite recipes to discover its versatility and enjoy its delightful flavor.
Sage
Growing Sage
Sage is a versatile herb known for its distinctive gray-green leaves and earthy flavor. Growing sage is relatively easy, making it a great addition to any kitchen garden. Sage prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil. It can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or ready-to-plant seedlings. Start by planting the seeds or young plants in well-prepared soil. Water the plants deeply, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Sage is a hardy herb and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. With its beautiful leaves and aromatic scent, sage will add both beauty and flavor to your garden.
Caring for Sage Plants
Caring for sage plants requires minimal effort, making them a great choice for kitchen gardeners. Sage prefers slightly dry conditions, so make sure not to overwater. Water the plants deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid excessive moisture, as it can lead to root rot. Good drainage is essential to prevent such issues. Sage is a slow-growing herb, so it doesn’t require much fertilization. A light application of organic fertilizer in early spring should be sufficient. Pruning is an important aspect of sage care, as it helps maintain a compact shape and promotes bushier growth. Prune the plants regularly, removing any dead or woody stems. With its welcoming scent and versatile flavor, sage will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
Harvesting and Storing Sage
When it comes to harvesting sage, the best time is in the morning when the leaves have the highest concentration of essential oils. Simply snip off individual leaves or cut off whole stems near the base of the plant. To preserve the flavor and aroma of sage, it’s best to harvest before the plant flowers. Thoroughly wash the harvested leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel before using or storing. To store sage, you can air dry the leaves by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area. Once dried, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in a sealed container away from light and heat. Properly dried sage can be stored for up to a year.
Using Sage in Cooking
Sage is an herb that adds depth and warmth to a variety of dishes. Its earthy flavor pairs well with rich and hearty ingredients. Add minced sage leaves to butter and toss with pasta for a simple yet flavorful dish. Sage also works well with poultry and pork, whether roasted, grilled, or sautéed. Try incorporating sage into stuffings or meatloaf for an added layer of flavor. Sage-infused oils or vinegars can be used to dress salads or marinate vegetables. Additionally, sage leaves can be used in tea blends, bringing a unique and soothing taste. Experiment with sage in your favorite recipes and embrace the robust flavor it brings to the table.
In conclusion, having a selection of culinary herbs in your kitchen garden can elevate your culinary creations to new heights. Whether you choose to grow basil, parsley, mint, cilantro, rosemary, thyme, oregano, chives, dill, or sage, each herb brings its unique flavor and aroma to the table. From adding a zesty freshness to refreshing beverages to enhancing the savory taste of roasted meats and vegetables, these herbs offer endless possibilities in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools, and start cultivating your own herb garden. Your taste buds will thank you, and your dishes will never be the same again. Enjoy the journey of growing, caring for, harvesting, and utilizing these wonderful culinary herbs. Happy gardening and happy cooking!