Spring has sprung and what better way to get into the swing of the season than by putting on your gardening gloves? Whether you’re new to gardening or you’re a pro, herbs are an easy way to get your green thumb going. Indoor, outdoor, big, small, the options are endless when it comes to planting herbs, so we put together five tips on growing your own herbs in Central Virginia.

Indoor or outdoor? That should be the first decision you make for your herbs. The great news is either option will work! Virginia’s typically milder weather leads to good outside plant weather. At Spectrum Stone Designs, we also understand that some people like to have their plants inside, as beautiful kitchen counters and indoor herb gardens are a perfect pair ;). Indoor Plants for Beginners says any plant can survive inside or outdoors if it has draining potting soil, temperate weather and lots of sunlight. Herbs are great because there are a lot of varieties, you can cook with them and they offer other health benefits like potentially reducing stress just by adding greenery to your living space. Indoor Plants for Beginners also says to choose your herbs based on whether you’re planting them inside or outside, as some will thrive better in a natural outdoor environment. 

Water and sun are huge contributors to a healthy herb garden, but when planting outside, keeping all weather elements like wind and rain in mind is also important. Food 52 reminds to plant your herbs in an area that won’t see harsh or severe weather like heavy winds. You also want to make sure the herbs are planted in an area with proper drainage, as sitting water after a storm could drown your herbs. Food 52 says to consider pots or jars for your herbs. You can plant them alone but when you plant the herbs in pots, it gives you more flexibility because you can move them around based on weather factors and you can better control how much soil, water, sun, etc. they’re getting. 

Once you’ve decided where you’re going to start your herb garden, Gardenary says to decide which herbs you want, if they pair well together and if you want to plant them from seeds or plant already grown herbs. There are “families” of herbs, and each type can have varying needs. If you plan to water them all at the same time, keep in mind which herbs need the most water and which need the least so it will make upkeep even easier for you.

We’ll send you on your way with another piece of advice from Gardenary – learn about herbs and familiarize yourself before you buy and/or plant. If you buy seeds or plants then get home with no knowledge of how or where to plant, it may be overwhelming and turn into an overlooked project. So do your research first, so the planting process is smooth and fun. We love gardening here at Spectrum Stone Designs, so reach out to us any time to chat about gardening, kitchen counters and so much more.