ALL ABOUT HERBS

For a kitchen garden plant basil, lemon or English thyme, chives, cilantro, French tarragon, sage or savory, Greek Oregano or Marjoram, Italian flat parsley, and dill.

Besides full sun, herbs do not demand much attention. Bed preparation is simple, requiring nothing more than average tilled or loosened soil that drains well. If soil is especially poor, adding a little manure or mushroom compost will enhance soil quality. Herbs prefer somewhat dry and infertile soil so regular fertilizing is not necessary. In fact, established herbs need no supplemental watering except in periods of drought. However, herbs growing in window baskets or containers tend to dry quickly, so check regularly for water needs. Insect problems with herbs are few and far between. If there is an insect problem, try a water rinse or insecticidal soap. Avoid chemical treatments as they may impair or alter the herbs' natural taste.

Here are a few seasonal steps to follow:

In the Spring

• Remove winter mulch from existing perennial herbs when new growth appears.
• Generally, herbs should be planted in mid-May. Space the plants six to 10 inches apart so that leaves overlap for a full appearance and to limit space for weeds.

In the Summer

• If herbs (such as basil) are grown for their foliage, pinch off the growing tips to encourage side branching.
• Water only when leaves show signs of wilting or during dry periods. Water container herbs more frequently.
• Pull weeds.

In the Fall

• Cut perennial herbs' growth to the base.
• Remove annual herbs when foliage has browned.
• Add a small amount of leaf mulch to replace annuals and around perennial herbs. Consider turning small amounts of organic material into the soil.
• Cover the bed with a three-inch layer of mulch after the first freeze to regulate soil temperatures.

Harvesting

Harvest herbs after the dew dries in mid-morning. This will ensure herbs maintain their best flavor. A general rule-of-thumb is to harvest when herbs reach nine inches. Usually herbs are harvested twice in a season, so be sure to leave enough of the plant for it to remain vibrant for further harvests.

Drying

Only dry fresh herbs. Rinse them in cold water and gently shake or blot them dry. After this has been done, there are three drying techniques:

Air Drying is the most common method. Tie six to 10 stems in a bundle and place in a paper bag with holes to enable air to circulate. With stems extending slightly out of the bag and with the foliage inside, hang the bags in an out-of-the-way place where temperatures are between 70° F and 80° F for two to four weeks or until dry.

Tray Drying works well for drying individual leaves and short-stemmed herbs. Lay herbs on trays where temperatures are between 70° F and 80° F until dry. Cover the top with a paper towel to restrict dust and light.

Heat Drying uses an oven or microwave. Place herbs on a cookie sheet in an oven at 180° F. Leave the oven door open. With a microwave, place herbs on a paper plate or towel. Leave them in the microwave for up to three 30 second intervals. With the heat drying method, be careful not to burn herbs, as this will reduce their flavor and ornamental qualities.

Store herbs a cool place in airtight, translucent jars. Light and heat can break down herbs, destroying their flavor and healthy qualities.

See Herbs for Chicagoland for a list of popular herbs and important information about each. Assume herbs are perennial and require full sun, unless otherwise noted.

Pasquesi Home and Gardens is Chicagoland's premier resource for gardeners wanting to create a perfect atmosphere. We have a vast selection of plants, many of them rare and unusual. Our qualified, professional staff is ever-willing to share their knowledge with customers needing advice.

Pasquesi Home and Gardens is a complete resource for gardening, home and pet supplies. There are hundreds of beautiful accents for the home and out-of-doors, and Pasquesi Home and Gardens has an unrivaled collection of containers for indoors and outdoors in many different styles, materials and shapes. Both stores carry a wide range of quality garden tools and outdoor furniture.