Everyone knows that fresh herbs make a noticeable difference to your favorite meals, cocktails, and aromatherapy… But, did you know that herbs also make a noticeable difference in your garden? As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, the hard work of spring is finally paying off in the form of summer harvest. Gardens all over mid-Missouri are bursting with the colors and flavors that only summer can bring us; and nothing enhances those flavors like summer herbs!
Growing your own herbs at home is as fresh and cost-effective as it gets! Herbs offer an array of textures, aromas, and benefits to any green space, no matter the experience level of the gardener or the size of the garden. Herbs can be planted on their own, or incorporated into your mixed pots or garden beds. Planting herbs among your already established garden beds can actually attract beneficial insects to your garden, enhancing your garden’s overall health. Many can also be grown in small singular pots, window boxes, or hanging baskets on small porches or balconies that get enough sunlight!
But “Where do I start?” – It’s simple! Start with a common herb you like or use regularly at home. A few of my favorite low maintenance summer herbs include:
- Basil
- Thrives in heat
- Perfect for pesto, salads, and drinks (Recipe below!)
- Can vary in flavor and color!
- Mint
- Refreshing for drinks and desserts
- Spreads quickly
- Wide array of flavors (Ex: Chocolate Mint, Apple Mint, etc.
- Oregano
- Mediterranean staple
- Great for sauces and grilled meats
- Cilantro
- Fast-growing
- Ideal for summer salsas
- Lemongrass
- Adds a citrusy punch
- Deters pests
It is important to harvest your herbs often. Pruning encourages better growth. Herbs can be stored short-term in the fridge or on the counter in water (like flowers). For long-term storage; freezing, drying, or infusing oils are all great options depending on the herb being stored.
Come see us today and pick from our wide variety of herbs grown right here at Longfellow’s! There is still plenty of “thyme” to plant herbs that can be harvested all summer long. Have herb questions? We have the “sage” advice you need, and would be “dill”-lighted to help! (Okay, I’ll stop!)
Recipe: Strawberry Basil Smash***
- 3 Medium Strawberries
- 3-4 Basil Leaves
- Juice of ½ lime
- Sparkling water or soda
Wash and de-stem the strawberries and cut them into a few pieces each. Wash basil, then add both to a glass.
Squeeze the lime on top and crush with either a bar pestle or a wooden spoon. Add crushed ice and sparkling water on top.
Sip and enjoy!!
***For adults over the age of 21: add 1.5 oz of gin, tequila, rum, vodka, OR whiskey. Please drink responsibly!