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The best recipes call for fresh
herbs rather than their dried equivalents that are found on the
spice aisle in the grocery store. Fresh herbs add a delightful
flavor and zest to foods that just doesn't compare to dried spices
to the trained palette. What is the ardent gourmet cook to do
when the local grocery store caters to only the mediocre taste
buds? Consider growing your own herbs indoors, of course! If
you want that just right flavor and aroma for your gourmet dishes,
it's worth a little extra effort to have your own supply of completely
fresh herbs.
If herbs have a delicate flavor,
does that mean the plant is also delicate? Don't let their delicate
flavor mislead you into thinking the herb plant is also delicate.
In fact, many herbs grow so hardy that they are labeled "invasive".
In garden language, that means herb plants will totally dominate
and take over an area.
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To save your garden from this
invasiveness, it's much simpler to grow herbs indoors in a dedicated
location. Begin your garden by picking out a variety of small
to medium flowerpots with drainage holes. Your selection looks
best if the pots match your decor. The herbs that you select
should interest you and maybe even look good in your room's surroundings.
When you scoop in potting soil, be sure to prepare the soil according
to the bag's planting directions.
Decide which herbs are your favorites
that you would like to try growing. |
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Any of these herbs make a good choice
for starting your herb growing adventure: basil, thyme, sage,
chives and rosemary. Purchase a packet of seeds or starter plants
from your local greenhouse or nursery. If it is winter and your
local garden centers are closed, you can buy seed packets online
any time of year. Plant herb seeds according to the package directions,
being careful not to plant the tiny seeds too deep.
Even though a windowsill is popular
location for a herbal garden, this location may be too cold in
the chilly climates. While the plants will get plenty of sun
( a recommended six to eight hours every day ) you should place
your flower plants where the temperature stays consistent.
Herbs need plenty of water. You
can touch the soil and test for dryness before watering. If figuring
out when to water is a bit tricky for you, purchase a thermometer-like
gadget from your garden center that lists your exact plant. The
device is simply placed in the soil and you read whether the
not your type of plant is ready for watering or not. To catch
draining water that seeps out your pot's holes, place a plastic
drip pan under these containers.
If you don't think you can grow
a garden on your own, consider purchasing the Chia pet, which
is made for anyone to grow. As your herbs grow, simply sheer
off the fresh herb with a kitchen scissors. In no time, you'll
find out why these homegrown herbs are so much better tasting
inside your homemade gourmet dishes.
Copyright 2005 Riccardo Calder.
All rights reserved. |
