What could be more satisfying than snipping off fresh sprigs of herbs from your own windowsill or patio pots and adding them to your cooking? It is becoming more apparent that food safety is becoming a number one concern in society today.
Whether you start them from seed or nursery plants buy the best you can afford but always start with a very good potting soil.
Some herbs look so ornamental they can be planted among flowers in pots with dramatic effect.
Small amounts of herbs are used for flavor in cooking so only cut off what is needed so you will always have a fresh supply.
Many pots of herbs can be brought in for the winter and placed in a sunny location to be used for months to come even when dried.
Oregano is a staple in all kitchens and does very well in containers as long as it is grown in full sun and has good drainage.
For ultimate flavor and freshness pick leaves when young and nip off flower buds so leaves will not become bitter.
You may want to give oregano a container of its own as it is a spreader.
Chives are one of the easiest to grow in any soil as long as it is in the sun and again will spread.
As a member of the onion family you can not go wrong planting chives as they can be used for many recipes in a pinch.
Even the bulb can be used.
After flowers have died down they should be deadheaded so they do not go to seed.
Scissors should be used to cut stems from the base when needed.
Chives or garlic chives keep on giving as it is a perennial.
Parsley a widely used culinary herb used for its flavor and garnishes with some being stronger flavored than others.
Parsley is one herb that would work well planted amongst patio flowers as the leaves are bright green, attractive and grows well in partial shade.