Herbs, herbs, herbs- Also easy to start in recyclables!

Verbena, iresine and tulsi, at golden hour

Herb seeds now being distributed

Today, herb seeds are getting sent out to the little free cabinets. Herbs are my favorite to grow because of their versatility in such a small amount of space needed. The seed packets being offered in the little free cabinets have enough seed for a household to grow that crop; Try to take only what you will actually grow, which usually means 1 seed packet of that variety. The little free cabinets will be restocked as we are able. Get yourself outside for a walk and stop by to see what is there today, then come back in a couple of days. Different herbs will likely be available to try! When you get to a cabinet, you will see multiple tubs labeled with the category of seed / how to start it. The herb tub is labeled “for winter sowing”, which is the least demanding method to start herbs. But there are other methods to starting herbs.

Many ways to start herbs

The world of herbs crosses so many categories of plants that it is tricky to suggest one-size-fits-all for their propagation. If you are set-up for indoor seed starting with lights, shelves, and flats, you can certainly follow traditional horticulture starting methods. However, the wicking system using deli containers I described for peppers can also work well for herbs if you have room in your house; I have used the wicking method for basil in particular because basil is so cold-averse. Conversely, some herbs do well as cuttings, or being potted up in the fall and grown in a windowsill. Some do okay being directly sowed into your garden once it is warmer. However, if you are just starting a new garden or wanting to keep-it-simple, then feel confident that winter sowing will work for a lot of our common herbs. To try it for yourself, see the complete details for the winter sowing method in this post.

Herbs are an excellent first step into gardening

If you are hesitant to jump into a full #OutPlantTheOutbreak garden, consider starting a few herbs to grow in pots. Garden pots can live happily in small spaces like a stoop, balcony or on a table so you do not have to bend to reach them. Often, 1 plant of a herb can be enough to give a boost to your kitchen pantry, tea cupboard, liquor caddy, medicine cabinet and pocketbook!

*Note- if you need potting soil for your seed starting activities, I suggest getting it soon from St. Paul local small businesses who are taking phone/web orders and bringing it to your car. This post has some local suggestions!