7 Aromatic Herbs You Should Consider Growing This Summer

June 19, 2020

Garden fresh herbs are a special summer treat. Adding delightful aroma and flavors to cooking and more, fresh herbs can easily be grown at home, whether in gardens or small containers. And you don’t need to be an expert gardener – even a first-time gardener should be able to grow many of the most common aromatic herbs. Here are some of our favorite choices. They are easy to take care of and provide flavorful ingredients for your kitchen.

1. Basil

Basil is a staple of any herb garden, with its large, bright leaves and fresh, versatile flavor. This delicious herb, a standard in Italian cooking, is easy to grow from seed or seedlings and easy to care for. Because of Marquette’s later planting season, it’s best to start these indoors. Use the leaves in fresh salads, pizzas, pasta, and so much more. Extra basil can be dried or frozen for later use.

2. Thyme

This subtle herb grows easily in containers or you can allow it to spread as ground cover. Thyme is a low-maintenance herb that grows small, delicate leaves on thin, woody stems. Remove the leaves from the stems and discard the stems. The small thyme leaves are perfect for French and Mediterranean cuisine and pair beautifully in vegetable dishes.

3. Lavender

A beautiful ornamental herb, lavender has a wide variety of applications. Lavender plants are hardy, drought-resistant, and bee-friendly – a great addition to any home garden. Use lavender in both baking and savory dishes. It’s also great in body care products and as a cocktail garnish.

4. Sage

This herb is known for its silvery colored leaves and delightful savory taste. Sage is an excellent addition to any garden or container, lending a delicate beauty. Harvest the leaves and use in gravies, sauces, roasts, and more. Dry or freeze extras to use later.

5. Dill

Growing best from seed, this easy-to-care-for herb is fragrant and flavorful. Dill is tolerant of rocky soil and direct sunlight and is easy to grow. Use the soft fronds in savory dishes for fresh, summery flavors or use in homemade pickles. The herb can also be used medicinally.

6. Mint

Mint is so easy to grow that it can sometimes overtake whole gardens, even in the tough U.P. environment. It may be best to contain mint plants in pots to prevent spread. Use in salads, desserts, tea, cocktails, and more. Dry extra leaves to enjoy mint tea year-round.

7. Chives

Chives are super easy to grow and come up again year after year without replanting. This herb requires very little care and is easy to harvest all summer long. Chop these fragrant, lightly oniony herbs and sprinkle over baked potatoes or cheese.

For advice on growing your own herb garden, as well as flower delivery in Marquette, MI, contact the helpful staff at Flower Works in Marquette, MI.

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