A GUIDE TO GROWING HERB GARDENS IN THE SOUTHERN SOIL
In the world of interior design, where everything contributes to the ambiance of our living spaces, the addition of natural elements, such as a herbal garden, creates a story of life and peace. For those of us who live in the South, having an herb garden indoors or outdoors becomes not just a hobby but a must-have. This post is a guide for those of you who live in the South and want to have your own herb garden. I’ll give you tips on which herbs will grow best and how to keep them thriving. This blog post is a guide for growing an herb garden in the southern soil.
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Understanding The Southern Weather Patterns
Before we explore the world of herbs, it's important to become accustomed to the unique characteristics of the Southern climate. With its warm summers and mild winters, the South is a fantastic place where herbs can flourish throughout the seasons, offering scents and flavors to delight the senses year-round. Here is more information about the Southern weather patterns and how they impact herb gardens:
Warm Summers: Southern summers are typically hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the high 80s and 90s Fahrenheit (30-35°C) or even higher. These warm conditions create an excellent environment for herbs that thrive in heat, such as basil, rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Adequate watering is essential during hot summer months to prevent herbs from drying out and wilting.
Humidity: The South experiences high humidity, especially during summer. While many herbs enjoy some humidity, excessive moisture in the air can promote fungal diseases and rot in herb plants. Proper air circulation, well-draining soil, and avoiding overcrowding the plants can help reduce the risk of humidity-related issues.
Mild Winters: Unlike colder regions, Southern winters are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing for extended periods. Many herbs can continue to thrive outdoors throughout the winter season. However, some tender herbs, such as basil and cilantro, may struggle in colder temperatures. Consider protecting sensitive herbs with lightweight fabric or bringing potted herbs indoors during particularly cold spells.
Variable Weather Patterns: Southern weather can be unpredictable, with rapid temperature shifts and occasional extreme weather, such as hurricanes or heavy rainfall. You should be prepared to protect your herbs from sudden temperature drops or excessive rainfall, which can cause waterlogging and root rot.
Long Growing Season: The South's extended growing season allows for multiple harvests of herbs throughout the year. Plant herbs in concession to ensure a continuous supply of fresh herbs for cooking, medicinal purposes, or aromatic enjoyment.
Sun Exposure: Most herbs thrive in full sun, and the South typically receives ample sunlight throughout the year. However, intense summer heat can scorch herb leaves if they are not provided with some shade during the hottest part of the day. Positioning herb gardens in areas with partial shade or providing a shade cloth can help protect plants during the hot sunlight hours.
Spring Herbs
Spring is the season of new beginnings, and it is the perfect time to plant herbal seeds or seedlings (small plants).
Basil:
Basil grows large leaves and has a rich aroma that makes it a staple in most kitchens.
Choose from heirloom varieties such as Genovese or Thai Basil for their sweet, tangy flavor.
Plant basil seeds or seedlings in full sun and in soil mixed with organic compost to ensure they reach their full potential.
Rosemary:
Rosemary has silvery leaves and a woody fragrance. Rosemary is also a staple in Southern herb gardens and very good in salty, spicy foods.
Choose Tuscan Blue or Miss Jessup’s Upright varieties for their resilence and fragrance.
Plant Rosemary in full sun with well drained, sandy soil.
Mint:
Mint has grassy leaves and a refreshing aroma. It is a perennial so it will grow year after year.
Select varieties such as Spearmint or Chocolate Mint for their energizing flavors and healthy growth.
Plant Mint in containers or specific beds to contain its growth. Mint doesn’t do well in full sun, so make sure it is mainly in shaded areas and gets plenty of water.
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Planting Herbs In The Height Of Summer
As the sun reaches its strongest point, it’s the best time to plant some specific summer herbs.
Cilantro:
Cilantro has delicate leaves and a bright flavor. It is a short-lived herb and does better in the early days of summer when the weather is still a little cooler. This is one of the hardest herbs for me to grow for some reason.
Choose slow-growing varieties like Santo or Calypso for prolonged growth.
Plant Cilantro seeds in well-drained soil and give it plenty of water.
Chives:
Chives have slender stems and fragile blooms. Their oniony juice is used in many recipes.
Plant Chives in fertile soil and give them a balance of sun and shade.
Fall Planting
As summer's sweltering heat gives way to the cool, crisp days of autumn, fall presents a great opportunity to extend the herb-growing season in the South.
Thyme:
Thyme is a versatile herb that does well in the cooler temperatures. It has fragrant leaves that are good in salty and spicy dishes.
Choose varieties such as French Thyme or Lemon Thyme for their intense flavor.
Plant Thyme seedlings in well-drained soil and make sure they get plenty of sun and water.
Parsley:
Parsley does well in the fall. It grows bushy leaves and is used in many recipes.
Select varieties such as Italian Flat Leaf Parlsey or Curly Parlsey for their distinctive flavor.
Plant Parsley seeds or seedlings in fertile, well drained soil and keep them in the shade.
By selecting the right herbs for our region and planting them at optimal times, we can create thriving herb gardens that feed both body and soul, enriching our lives and homes.
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https://amzn.to/491Uza8 Herb Garden Supplies page
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This post was about a guide to growing herb gardens in the southern soil.
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Pam Wichlei
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