Being Creative With Your Herb Garden Design
Starting an herb garden is pretty easy. These herbs are not particularly difficult to deal with. They can thrive with ease in an outdoor or indoor setting. However, there is another aspect to add to herb garden care. That is, herb garden design.
Before you begin digging and planting, make a plan first about how your garden will look like. No idea? Answer these questions: How much time can you give in caring for your garden? How much are you willing to spend? What growing zone do you belong? How much sunlight does your yard receive? What type of soil do you have?
If you have already resolved the amount of time you want to spend with your garden, you will know how big you can maintain. You also need to decide whether you put your plants in containers or dig up a place for them. The type of plant will impact your herb garden design, so figure out if you want annual, biennial, perennial or mix type of plants.
If you are a novice herb gardener, it’s best to start with a small plot, say 6 by 8 feet, and choose a design that is simplest to implement and maintain. Remember, one of the main reasons for growing a garden is enjoyment. If you don’t find any pleasure in maintaining a big plot, better stick with little. A small plot is also less expensive. This will give you an opportunity to try out.
Another thing in considering herb garden design is to determine if you want the informal, wild look or the formal type. In the informal type, herbs are allowed to naturally seed and spread. A little disorder is tolerated. In the formal type, there should be a specific plan for the shape and size of the garden. Geometrical patterns rule the design, with some symmetry and careful measurement.
Formal herb garden design requires more planning and dedication. You need to consider what to plant in each compartment, the color combination of the plants, and even the height and size of herbs. For instance, parsley and purple basil are always used as border plants because of their attractive color. If you wish to add brick or stone paths, you have to incorporate this in your plan. It’s a tedious job to cultivate and maintain formal herb garden, but it is most rewarding once you see your herbs grow.
To better visualize your herb garden design, you can sketch your plan on a piece of graphing paper. Make every square equivalent to one square foot, and plan what to plant in that every block. Take note of immovable objects like trees and fences, and add them to your sketch so you can better visualize the layout of the garden.
