Herb Gardening 101 A Guide to Starting and Caring for a Small Herb Garden on Your Front Porch or Balcony

Greetings, fellow green thumbs!  In this guide, we'll be going over and learning all about starting and caring for a herb garden in a small area, such as a front porch or balcony. 

Let's begin with the fun part – selecting the herbs. You want to choose herbs that are not only easy to grow, but also align with your culinary tastes. Some great options for small herb gardens include basil, thyme, parsley, chives, rosemary, mint, and oregano. These herbs are compact and will fit perfectly in your small space. Keep in mind that different herbs have varying sunlight needs, so ensure that you choose the right ones for the amount of sunlight your area receives.

Now, onto containers. You might be tempted to choose a trendy, Instagrammable container. But remember, function is key. When selecting containers for your herbs, make sure they are spacious enough to accommodate the plant's root system and allow for proper drainage. You don't want your herbs drowning in standing water! 

Planting is the next step. Once you have selected your herbs and containers, it's time to get your hands dirty! Fill the container with quality potting mix, create a small hole in the soil for each herb, and carefully transplant the herb from its original pot to the new container. Make sure to water the herb thoroughly and place it in its new location.

Congratulations! You have started your very own herb garden. But it doesn't stop there. Maintaining your herb garden is just as important as starting it. Be sure to water your herbs regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Check the soil frequently, and water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Fertilize your herbs every two to three weeks with a high-quality, all-purpose fertilizer. And lastly, ensure that your herbs receive adequate sunlight by regularly rotating them to face the sun.

In conclusion, starting and caring for a herb garden is a fun and rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and functional garden that provides fresh ingredients for your cooking and adds beauty to your living space. Remember to have fun and get creative with your herb garden – maybe even try out a new recipe using your freshly picked herbs!