Small-space herb gardening for military families

By: Maria McConville, MS, RDN, CPT
 
One of the best things about spring and summer are the fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs found in grocery stores and local farmers’ markets. However, growing fresh produce and herbs from your own garden can be rewarding and fun. One Army (ret.) spouse, Sonia Scott (now retired), has managed to keep a flourishing garden, despite multiple moves. Sonia has some tips on how to get started with fresh herbs.

MM: Sonia, thanks for taking the time to speak with me. How did you become so passionate about gardening?

SS: When my husband and I were newlyweds living in Alaska, a neighbor gave me some basil seeds that I sowed in the flower bed. The basil took off. Being able to pop outside and snip herbs in the summer changed the way I cook. Using fresh herbs elevated everything. I quickly realized the natural connection between gardening and flavorful cooking. Herbs grow everywhere. I have grown them in Alaska and Alabama and many places in between. Whenever we moved, I always started an herb garden. Now that we’re staying in one place, we’ve built raised beds for seasonal vegetables. But I still have a patio herb garden for beauty and convenience. 

MM: What advice can you offer Service Members and their families on growing herbs?

SS: Consult a local nursery or garden center to find out which herbs grow best in your area. Start with some of the easier herbs and spices to grow, such as basil, parsley, thyme, oregano, rosemary, chives, sage, or mint. I’ve had the most success with these. If your space is limited, try to pair plants that need the same amount of water and have similar soil conditions. Also, you could start with kitchen windowsill herbs.

MM: It seems like anyone could have a few windowsill herbs. What does that entail?

SS: For a small windowsill, you could have 3 pots or one long planter. In a long planter, plant basil on one end, parsley in the middle, and thyme on the other. Water the thyme sparingly. Or you can use 3 individual pots and accomplish the same thing. 

If you start with plants instead of seeds, you can use the herbs in your cooking right away. Cut sprigs of the herbs to help the plants stay healthy and become fuller. I recommend that you use potting soil for your windowsill containers. Potting soil has the right mix of soil, peat, and organic fertilizer. You can also add some gravel or pebbles on the bottom for drainage. 

MM: If someone wanted to “grow” from indoor herbs to a few containers on the patio, what would they do?

SS: I really love a patio garden. Even with my larger garden beds, I still grow some herbs in pots on the patio, deck, balcony, or porch. I use these guidelines:

• Use a strawberry pot for functionality. Strawberry pots have one large opening on the top and several smaller openings on the sides that are perfect for strawberry plants or herbs. Plant at least one basil plant, one parsley plant, one rosemary plant, and some kind of flower that grows well where you live, such as pansies or marigolds. 
• Don’t put a plant in every open hole. Fill the extra holes with large rocks or flowers to attract bees for pollination. 
• Place some rocks in the bottom of the container for drainage, and use potting soil to fill the containers. 
• Avoid planting mint in your pot. It grows quickly and takes over everything. Mint is the dandelion of the herb world! 
• Harvest your herbs early in the morning, after the dew dries, and before the day gets hot.
• Don’t put a plant in every open hole. Fill the extra holes with large rocks or flowers to attract bees for pollination. 

Don’t let frequent moves or small spaces hinder you from growing and cooking with fresh herbs. Follow these tips from Army spouse Sonia, and let your green thumb shine!

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* The opinions and assertions expressed herein are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of USU or DoD. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of the author and do not reflect the views, opinions, or policies of The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc. Mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. The author has no financial interests or relationships to disclose.