Creating the perfect Thanksgiving table is all about setting the scene for a warm and inviting holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a big family feast or an intimate holiday meal, knowing how to set a Thanksgiving table can help make your meal feel special and memorable.
From choosing the right tablecloth and elegant dinnerware to adding thoughtful seasonal touches like candles and autumnal centerpieces, every detail contributes to the festive atmosphere.
Whether you’re going for a traditional look with a rustic vibe or a more modern and elegant feel, this guide will show you step-by-step how to create a stunning Thanksgiving table that will make your guests feel right at home.
How to properly set a table for Thanksgiving?
Start with the Basics
Start with a beautiful tablecloth or Thanksgiving table runner. This is the foundation of your Thanksgiving table setting. Use a festive tablecloth, or a runner made of burlap or linen to add texture. Layering different fabrics can create a visually appealing look.
Place the Dinner Plates
In the center of each of the place settings, place a dinner plate. If you’re using a charger, put the dinner plate on top of it.
Add the Salad Plate and Soup Bowl
If you’re serving multiple courses, place the salad plates on top of the dinner plate and the soup bowl on top of the salad plate.
Where do you put silverware on Thanksgiving table?
Place the fork on the left of the dinner plate. If serving a salad, put the salad fork to the left of the dinner fork. On the right side of the plate, place the knife (with the blade facing the plate) and then the spoon. If serving dessert, the dessert fork or spoon can be placed above the dinner plate.
Set the Glassware
Place the water glass directly above the knife. The wine glass (for red or white wine) should be to the right of the water glass, slightly diagonal.
Add Napkins
Fold the napkin and place it either to the left of the forks or on top of the dinner plate, or get creative with a napkin ring for an added touch.
Bread Plate and Butter Knife
If you’re serving bread, place the bread plate above the forks, with a small butter knife laid across the plate.
How to make a pretty Thanksgiving table?
Select a color palette that reflects the fall season, such as warm oranges, deep reds, golden yellows, and earthy browns. You can also opt for a more modern look with whites and metallics.
Create a centerpiece using pumpkins, gourds, and fall foliage. You can also arrange flowers in mason jars or a rustic vase. Consider adding candles for warmth and ambiance.
Use natural elements like pinecones, acorns, or leaves to enhance the seasonal vibe. Scatter these items down the table or place them in bowls.
Consider adding place cards or handwritten notes for each guest. This personal touch can make everyone feel special.
Create visual interest by varying the heights of your decorations. Use stands, cake plates, or elevated dishes for some items to draw the eye.
Use an assortment of candles—tea lights, pillar candles, or tapered candles. Consider placing them in decorative holders or lanterns to enhance the festive feel.
Use cloth napkins in your color scheme and consider folding them in creative ways or using napkin rings for an elegant touch.
By combining these elements, you can create a beautiful Thanksgiving table!
How do you arrange food on a table for Thanksgiving?
Here are some tips to help you set up your buffet or your Thanksgiving dinner table:
Ensure there’s enough space between dishes for guests to serve themselves comfortably. Consider the size of your serving platters and bowls.
Plan Your Layout. Decide whether you’ll have a sit-down dinner or a buffet style. For sit-down meals, consider the flow of dishes, while buffets should allow easy access for guests.
Place the turkey or main dish in the middle of the table as the focal point. If it’s a large dish, ensure there’s enough space around it for serving.
Group similar types of dishes together. For example, place all the starches (mashed potatoes, stuffing) on one side and veggies (green bean casserole, roasted Brussels sprouts) on another.
Arrange dishes by serving temperature. Keep hot dishes towards the center or warmer area of the table, while salads and cold dishes should be placed at the ends.
Consider using small cards or labels to indicate each dish, especially for guests with dietary restrictions.
Make sure each dish has appropriate serving utensils. Place them close to the dish to keep things tidy and organized.
Is there a foul smell lingering in your kitchen? It might be coming from your drains. Over time, kitchen drains can accumulate food residue, grease, and other debris, causing an unpleasant smell.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some effective methods and tips to banish those drain odors and keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
Removing kitchen sink odors is easier than you think. With a few simple household ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps, you can have your drains smelling fresh in no time. Let’s dive into how to clean smelly drains in the kitchen and reclaim your kitchen’s fresh scent.
How to Clean Smelly Drains in the Kitchen:
Hot Water Flush: Start by pouring a kettle of boiling water down the drain. This helps to melt away grease and loosen any buildup inside the pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture fizz and work its magic for about 10-15 minutes. Then, flush the drain with hot water to wash away the debris.
Citrus Solution: Cut a lemon into quarters and drop them down the drain. Run hot tap water for a minute to release the citrusy scent and help freshen up the drain.
Salt and Ice Cubes: For stubborn odors, try a mixture of salt and ice cubes. Pour a handful of salt down the drain, followed by a few ice cubes. Turn on the garbage disposal and let it grind up the mixture to help dislodge any buildup.
Borax Solution: Create a mixture of borax and water and pour it down the drain. Let it sit for an hour or overnight before flushing it out with hot water. Borax is known for its cleaning properties and can help eliminate odors.
Commercial Drain Cleaners: If the odor persists, you may opt for a commercial drain cleaner. However, use these products sparingly as they can be harsh on the pipes and the environment.
With these simple yet effective solutions, you can say goodbye to smelly drains and hello to a fresh-smelling kitchen. Regular preventive measures and cleaning of your drains can help prevent odors from returning in the future. So, roll up your sleeves and give your kitchen drains the TLC they deserve for a happier and fresher home.
Here are 10 easy ways to live sustainably. These small changes in your life today will reduce your environmental impact and help the planet for future generations.
We all know that sustainability is important, but it can be hard to know where to start. Here are some easy ways that you can live a more sustainable life without making drastic changes. Every little bit helps to make a positive impact!
Living in a sustainable way is an exciting new journey, but it’s not always easy to know where you should start. There are many lifestyle changes for individuals or families looking into going zero waste – from reducing food packaging at home by following these 10 ideas below all the way through recycling more often than throwing away trash cans full of recyclables!
Why is it important to live sustainably?
A sustainable lifestyle is all about living within the planet’s means, and using resources in a way that doesn’t compromise the environment or future generations.
The definition of sustainability is “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
When it comes to sustainability, it’s not just about conserving resources for ourselves – it’s also about ensuring that everyone has access to those resources.
Sustainable living means taking steps to reduce our environmental impact and switching over to renewable energy sources and clean energy. It also means waste reduction, recycling, and composting.
Homemade Fabric Softener
10 Simple Ways to Live Sustainably
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle with You Everywhere
Plastic bottles are one of the biggest sources of waste in the world. Reusable water bottles not only helps reduce your contribution, but also saves trees from being cut down for plastic disposal sites around the world.
Not only do disposable ones create unnecessary waste, but the manufacturing process uses large amounts of energy and pollutes our planet with pollution!
There are better alternatives to using single-use plastic bottles, like reusable metal or glass water bottles. These options are more sustainable and healthier for us, so try to make the switch if you can!
Choose Sustainable Products
It’s easy to do your part and help the environment by choosing sustainable products. For example, replace plastic toothbrushes with bamboo ones that may cost more but last longer than their disposables counterparts!
Bamboo is also an excellent choice for clothing- it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals found in conventional cotton farming while requiring much less water and pesticides too; this makes it environmentally friendly as well as healthy because you’ll be helping remove toxins from our planet’s natural resources (like air pollution).
There are many sustainable products out there that can help you live a more sustainable life. Here are just a few examples:
Solar panels – Solar panels are a great way to generate renewable energy consumption and reduce your carbon footprint.
LED light bulbs – LED light bulbs use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and last much longer. This makes them more sustainable in the long run
Energy-efficient appliances like a new washing machine can save gallons of water and not take too much energy to run.
Eco-friendly cleaning products: There are now many cleaning products on the market that are made with sustainable ingredients and packaging.
Eat food options that use sustainable practices like fair trade and organic food and meat production from sustainably-raised animals. Or eat a vegetarian diet.
By choosing sustainable products whenever possible, you can make a big difference in the amount of pollution and waste produced each year.
Pack a Lunch for Work or School
Why not take your own homemade lunch to work? Bring a stainless steel thermos and use cloth or paper bags for groceries. You’ll save money by avoiding disposable containers, while reducing the amount of waste in landfills! Bringing your own lunch not only reduces waste but also saves money by cutting down costs.
Use a Cloth Napkin Instead of Paper Napkins and Towels
The cloth napkin is making a comeback as people become more mindful about reducing their waste output. Rather than using wasteful paper towels to dry hands or clean up spills, many users will opt for reusable fabric that can be washed and then reused again-a much better option!
Cloth napkins are an eco-friendly alternative to paper ones. They’re made from a variety of materials, including organic cotton and bamboo rayon – which is more environmentally friendly than traditional artificial fabrics!
Bring Your Own Shopping Bags to the Store
Bring your own shopping bags when you go grocery shopping and save tons of waste by not needing any single use plastic or paper products.
Most stores provide single use plastic or paper bags for customers to take home their purchases, but these often end up as landfill waste because they’re not designed well enough and break easily over time.
Reusable shopping bags last for years and they’ll help you save tons of unnecessary waste!
Bulk bins are an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to buy your food items. They offer a variety of products that can be conveniently organized by category, so it’s easy for you to pick out what you need without having too much packaging waste in tow! By purchasing items in larger containers, you’re reducing how much plastic or cardboard boxes that take up space and can’t be reused
Bring Your Own Container When Shopping
The best way to make your shopping experience eco-friendly is by using reusable items. You can take this a step further and buy bulk products in glass jars, which are perfect for storing shampoo or soap! Zero waste stores exist all over America so you’ll never be without one near where you live thanks again.
Use Reusable Bags for Produce
One way you can help reduce the amount of waste in your household is by using reusable produce bags at grocery stores. We all know that those thin, plastic bags are a huge contributor to landfills.
What many people don’t realize is how quickly it can add up! One single wasted bag may take hours or even days before being disposed of properly – which means more resources spent on garbage disposal fees for you as well as your family’s wallet (not fun). So next time you go shopping make sure and bring along some reusable mesh/cotton produce carriers.
Use Glass Jars for Leftovers
When it’s time to put away your leftovers, don’t use disposable food containers that will end up in the trash someday. Invest instead some reusable glass jars and have them ready for when you need them! Not only are these better than throwing anything away (less waste!) They also look cute on top of cupboards or refrigerators while keeping things tidy at home too.
Compost Food Waste
Composting is a great way to reduce your waste output because it helps break down organic matter into nutrient-rich soil. This process can then be used as plant food and grown into something beautiful!
Composting is a sustainable living practice that involves breaking down organic matter, such as food scraps, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. Composting is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and divert waste from landfills. It also helps improve the quality of your soil, which can lead to healthier plants and gardens.
If you live in an apartment or condo without space for your own compost pile, there are still ways to participate by finding a community drop off site near you!
Sustainable living is an idea and a lifestyle that you can take part of by choosing one of the ten steps listed above. With the growing number of people living sustainably, we can keep our planet healthy and clean by practicing zero waste habits.
These small steps will help you reduce your own personal trash output in order to live more mindfully with nature while also saving money! By following these tips, you can help make a difference in a sustainable future for generations to come!
Looking for the perfect gift for Mother’s Day? Explore our guide to the best gardening gifts that will delight any green-thumbed mom. From practical garden tools to beautiful plants, find the ideal present to celebrate her love of gardening.
Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show appreciation for the special women in our lives than with gifts that nurture their love for gardening?
These unique garden gifts for mom are sure to make her Mother’s Day extra special while nurturing her love for gardening and connecting her with nature.
Whether your mom is a seasoned gardener or just starting out, we’ve curated a list of thoughtful and practical gardening gifts that are sure to bring a smile to her face.
From practical gifts like tools to beautiful plants, let’s explore this selection of hand-picked gifts to make this the best Mother’s Day for the green-thumbed moms in your life.
Ideas for Mother’s Day Garden Gifts
Self-Watering Planter
A self-watering planter makes an ideal Mother’s Day gift for busy moms, offering convenience and ease of use by eliminating the need for frequent watering. It ensures consistent moisture levels for healthier plant growth, making it perfect for moms new to gardening or those with busy schedules. This thoughtful gift brings the beauty of nature into mom’s home while simplifying her gardening routine.
Handmade Gifts
Handmade gardening gifts are the perfect way to make Mother’s Day extra special by adding a personal touch to the celebration. From DIY herb garden kits to small terracotta pots for air plants, these thoughtful creations express your love and appreciation while encouraging mom’s passion for gardening. Whether it’s customized round garden stones or pressed flower artwork, each beautiful gift will be cherished as mom tends to her garden with joy, creating lasting memories of love and appreciation.
Bird Baths
Bring the beauty and serenity of nature directly to mom’s backyard with a bird bath, providing a peaceful oasis for birds to bathe and drink. Additionally, watching birds visit the bath can offer moments of relaxation and joy, making it a thoughtful and meaningful present for any nature-loving mom.
Sun Hat
Combine practicality with style, offering protection from the sun’s harmful rays while adding a fashionable accessory to mom’s wardrobe. A sun hat can be a versatile and timeless addition to mom’s summer wardrobe, ensuring she stays cool and comfortable under the sun during outdoor activities like gardening, picnics, or beach outings.
Personalized Garden Tote
A personalized garden tote is a thoughtful and practical gift for mom on Mother’s Day because it combines functionality with sentimental value. It provides a convenient way for mom to carry her gardening tools and supplies while also adding a personalized touch with her name or a special message. Every time she tends to her garden, she’ll be reminded of your thoughtfulness and appreciation for her green thumb.
Gardening Tools:
Equip mom with a high-quality gardening tool set featuring essentials like a trowel, cultivator, pruning shears, and gloves. This is the perfect gardening gift because it’s practical and essential for any gardening enthusiast. Be sure to opt for high-quality, durable tools that will withstand regular use.
Personalized Garden Flags:
Add a personalized touch to her garden with a custom garden sign featuring her mom’s name or a special message. It’s a thoughtful way to make her outdoor space feel uniquely hers.
Herb Garden Kit:
Help mom cultivate her own culinary herbs with a ready-to-grow herb garden kit. Compact and easy to maintain, it’s perfect for adding fresh flavors to her favorite dishes.
Garden Journal:
Encourage mom to document her gardening journey with a beautiful garden journal. From planning and planting to harvest and beyond, it’s a keepsake she’ll cherish for years to come.
Flowering Plants:
Brighten up mom’s garden with a selection of flowering plants like roses, hydrangeas, or peonies. Choose her favorite blooms to add color and fragrance to her outdoor oasis.
If gifting plants, make sure they are suitable for mom’s gardening zone and care requirements.
Vertical Garden Planter:
A vertical garden planter allows mom to maximize her gardening space by growing herbs, flowers, or small vegetables vertically, ideal for those with limited outdoor space.
Bee Hotel:
Help support local pollinators by gifting mom a bee hotel, providing a safe nesting habitat for solitary bees and other beneficial insects to thrive in her garden.
Garden Kneeler and Seat:
Ensure mom’s comfort while gardening with a garden kneeler and seat, designed to provide support and cushioning for her knees and back during long hours spent tending to her plants.
Seed Bomb Kit:
Encourage biodiversity in mom’s garden with a seed bomb kit, containing a variety of wildflower seeds packaged into easy-to-use seed bombs that she can scatter and watch bloom into vibrant flowers.
Herb Drying Rack:
Help mom preserve her homegrown herbs with a herb drying rack, allowing her to air dry herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme for culinary use throughout the year.
Garden Subscription Box:
Treat mom to a garden subscription box that delivers a curated selection of seeds, plants, gardening tools, and accessories to her doorstep each month, providing her with new inspiration and surprises for her garden.
Learn how to grow your own cucumbers from seeds with our easy guide! Discover tips, FAQs, and step-by-step instructions for a successful cucumber harvest.
Growing cucumbers from seeds is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy fresh, homegrown cucumbers straight from your garden.
Cucumbers thrive as a warm-weather crop, flourishing in the heat of the summer months. They love basking in the sunshine and require ample warmth to grow and develop properly. With their high water content, they enjoy the summer heat, making it the perfect time to plant and cultivate these refreshing and crunchy vegetables.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, our guide will walk you through the process and provide you with all the information you need to grow healthy cucumber plants.
Cucumber Season Months
Cucumber season typically spans from late spring around late May to August in many regions, with peak availability during the summer months. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the local climate zone and growing conditions.
How to Grow Cucumbers From Seeds
Start Indoors: Begin by planting cucumber seeds indoors about 3-4 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Use seed starting trays filled with seed starting mix, and plant the seeds about 1 inch deep.
Provide Adequate Light and Water: Place the seed trays in a warm, sunny location or under grow lights. Keep the soil surface consistently moist but not waterlogged, and ensure good drainage to prevent damping off.
Transplant Seedlings: Once the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they are ready to be transplanted outdoors. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil, and space the young plants about 12-24 inches apart.
Support the Plants: Cucumber vines can grow long and sprawling, so it’s important to provide support for the plants. Use trellises, cages, or stakes to help support the vines and keep the cucumber fruits off the ground.
Maintain Consistent Watering: Cucumbers require regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Water deeply at the base of the plants, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
Harvest Frequently: Harvest ripe cucumbers when they reach the desired size, typically 6-8 inches long for slicing cucumbers. Regular harvesting encourages more fruit production and prevents overripe cucumbers.
Enjoy Fresh Cucumbers: Once harvested, enjoy your homegrown cucumbers fresh in salads, sandwiches, pickles, or as a healthy snack!
How to Grow Cucumbers From Seeds in Pots
To grow cucumbers from seeds in pots, start by filling a large container with nutrient-rich potting soil. Plant cucumber seeds about 1 inch deep and 3-4 inches apart in the center of the pot. Water the soil thoroughly and place the pot in a sunny location. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and provide support for the cucumber vines to climb as they grow. Harvest cucumbers when they reach the desired size for optimal flavor and texture.
Tips for Growing Cucumbers
Choose cucumber varieties that are well-suited to your growing region and climate.
Consider using mulch around cucumber plants to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Monitor for pests and diseases regularly, and take appropriate measures to control them if necessary. Harvest cucumbers early in the morning when they are at their crispest and most flavorful.
How long does it take to grow cucumbers from seed?
Cucumbers typically take about 50 to 70 days to grow from seed to harvest, depending on the variety. Some varieties may mature faster or slower, so it’s essential to check the specific seed packet or plant label for the estimated days to maturity. Additionally, growing conditions such as temperature, sunlight, and soil quality can also impact the growth rate of cucumbers.
How many cucumber seeds per hole?
When planting cucumber seeds, it’s generally recommended to sow 2 to 3 seeds per hole. This allows for better germination rates, ensuring that at least one seed will successfully sprout. After the seeds have germinated and the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, you can thin them out by removing the weaker seedlings, leaving only the healthiest plant in each hole to grow to maturity.
How far apart to plant cucumber seeds?
When planting cucumber seeds directly in the garden, space the seeds about 1 inch apart in rows that are approximately 3 to 4 feet apart. This spacing allows the cucumber plants to have enough room to spread out as they grow while also maximizing the available garden space. As the seedlings develop, thin them out so that each healthy plant is about 12 to 18 inches apart within the row.
How deep to plant cucumber seeds?
Cucumber seeds should be planted about 1 inch deep in the soil. This depth allows them to have adequate contact with the soil for germination while still being shallow enough to easily emerge once they begin to sprout. After planting, gently pat down the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact and water thoroughly to help initiate germination.
How much water do cucumbers need?
Cucumbers typically require about 1-2 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. However, this can vary based on factors like weather conditions and soil type. It’s essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to support healthy cucumber growth.
Herb gardens are like a little slice of paradise for those who love gardening and cooking. Mastering the art of a thriving herb garden can take your dishes to a whole new level, capturing the freshest flavors and scents for your culinary creations.
Planning Your Herb Garden Paradise
Before breaking ground, it’s smart to plan and visualize what you want to achieve with your fresh herbs. Consider the following steps to set a solid foundation:
Step 1: Choose the Right Spot
Herbs generally love sunlight—find a spot in your yard or on your balcony that receives at least 6 hours of sun. A sunny location will make a big difference in the health of your plants. They also like well-draining soil, so if your chosen area tends to puddle after rain, you’ll need to amend the soil with organic matter or use a raised garden bed.
Using a raised bed is a great way to control the soil quality and drainage of your herb garden. You can also choose to use a large container when planting. This is especially good when growing things like mint plants that are known for taking over a small space.
Step 2: Decide on the Herb Garden Size
Will your herb garden be a small corner or a larger section of your vegetable garden? Consider the number of herbs you want to grow and how much space each one needs. Don’t forget to plan for pathways or access to other parts of your garden.
Step 3: Group Herbs Wisely
There are several ways to group herbs. You can cluster them by their water and light requirements, or by their use—culinary, medicinal, or aromatic for example. Grouping can enhance the appearance and functionality of your garden.
Step 4: Think About Design
A well-designed herb garden is not just about function, but also form. Whether you prefer tidy rows or a more naturalistic approach, designing your garden before planting will help achieve an aesthetic balance that pleases the eye and the nose.
How to Grow Your Kitchen Herb Garden Indoors
Growing a kitchen herb garden indoors is an excellent option for those with limited outdoor space or for anyone who wants to have fresh herbs at their fingertips year-round. Here are a few essential tips to ensure your indoor herb garden thrives:
Choosing the Right Herbs
Select herbs that you love to cook with and those that can adapt well to indoor conditions. Basil, chives, mint, oregano, parsley, and thyme are all great choices for starting an indoor herb garden.
Providing Sufficient Light
Herbs need plenty of light to grow. A sunny kitchen window is ideal. South facing windows or window boxes will bring the best light for the plants. If natural light is hard to get with a limited space, consider using grow lights placed a few inches above the plants for at least 6-8 hours per day.
Proper Watering
Overwatering is a common mistake in indoor gardening. Ensure your pots have drainage holes and water your herbs when the top inch of soil feels dry. Remember, different herbs have different water needs, so research each plant’s preferences.
Fertilizing
Use a liquid fertilizer at half strength every 4-6 weeks to provide nutrients, especially if using grow lights, as plants may not get all they need from potting soil alone.
Essential Herbs for Your Garden
The list of potential herbs is vast, but certain ones consistently prove themselves for their value in the garden and in your culinary ventures. Here are some must-have herbs to consider planting:
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil is a warm-weather favorite, and it’s an essential addition for any herb garden, particularly for lovers of Italian cuisine. This herb is frost-sensitive, so wait until all danger of frost has passed before planting.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
This Mediterranean beauty is a hardy perennial herbs in many places. It requires well-drained soil and a sunny spot. Rosemary’s pungent flavor is a favorite for seasoning meats and vegetables.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
With its delicate flowers and aromatic leaves, thyme is a hardy herb that can tolerate some neglect. It’s perfect for seasoning all sorts of dishes and is a great companion plant for many vegetables.
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
There are two main types of parsley—flat-leaf (Italian) and curly-leaf. Both are biennial herbs but most gardeners grow them as annual herbs. Parsley adds a fresh, clean flavor to dishes and is often used as a garnish.
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)
These grass-like perennials are part of the onion family, and their mild onion flavor is a delightful addition to salads, omelets, and many other dishes.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
This perennial herb has a refreshing lemony scent and can add a citrusy kick to drinks, fruit salads, and desserts. It’s also known for its calming properties and is often used in teas.
Lemon Verbena (Lippia citriodora)
Lemon verbena is a must for anyone who loves a citrus scent and flavor in their dishes. This perennial shrub thrives in sunny spots with well-drained soil. It’s perfect for adding a lemony zest to teas, desserts, and fish dishes. Although it’s less hardy than some herbs, it can be brought indoors or grown in a pot in colder climates to protect it from frost.
Sweet Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
Sweet Marjoram is a tender perennial often treated as an annual in cooler climates. It enjoys full sun and well-drained soil. The herb’s warm, sweet flavor makes it versatile in the kitchen, where it can be used in a variety of meat dishes, soups, and sauces. Its leaves are also a lovely aromatic addition to bouquets and herbal wreaths.
Using companion plants is a technique where you plant certain types of plants together to help each other grow. In the case of herbs, companion planting can deter pests and encourage beneficial insects. Even the easiest herbs will grow better when they are partnered with companion plants.
Marigolds (Tagetes)
Marigolds are often praised for their ability to deter nematodes in the soil. Planting them near your herbs can help keep your soil healthy.
Lavender (Lavandula)
Beyond being a fantastic herb on its own, lavender can repel moths, fleas, and other insects. It can be a great herb to plant near the entrance to your garden or near susceptible plants.
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Sage is known for its strong scent and is often used to make herbal smudge sticks. This same scent can deter pests when planted near susceptible crops.
Caring for Your Herb Garden
Herbs are generally low-maintenance, but a little care will go a long way in ensuring they stay healthy and productive.
Soil
Most herbs prefer well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, add some organic matter to improve drainage.
Watering
Overwatering can be more detrimental to herbs than under-watering. Most herbs prefer to dry out a bit between watering, so check the soil moisture with your finger before reaching for the watering can.
Fertilizing
In most cases, a light feeding with a balanced organic fertilizer twice a season should be sufficient for your herbs. Some, like basil, are considered heavy feeders and may benefit from an additional feeding.
Pruning
Pruning your herbs serves a dual purpose—it keeps them looking tidy and can encourage bushier growth. Pinch or snip off the growing tips to encourage side shoots and a fuller, more productive plant.
Mulching
Mulching around your herb plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Use an organic mulch like straw or bark, and be sure not to mulch too close to the plant stems.
Seasonal Maintenance
Your approach to caring for your herb garden will change with the seasons.
Spring
In early spring, as the weather warms, your herbs will begin to wake up and start growing again. This is the time to give them a light feeding and prune them back if they’ve become leggy over the winter.
Summer
Keep a close eye on your herbs in the heat of summer. Water as necessary, and consider giving them some shade if temperatures become extreme.
Fall
Fall is the time to harvest and preserve your herbs for the winter. This can be as simple as air-drying them or as involved as making herb butters or oils.
Winter
In colder climates, some herbs may die back completely in winter. This is okay—think of it as a natural rest period for the plant. In spring, they’ll come back stronger than ever.
Harvesting and Preserving Your Herbs
The best time to harvest most herbs is just before they flower. This is when their essential oils, which give them their flavor and fragrance, are most concentrated. This is great for getting the medicinal uses out of the common culinary herbs.
Air Drying
This is the simplest method of preserving herbs. Gather small bunches and tie them together, then hang them in a warm, well-ventilated place until they’re dry.
Another way to preserve the herbs is to lay them out on a clean cloth in a single layer and let them air dry.
You can also dehydrate the herbs. To do this, place them on a baking sheet and put in the oven at its lowest setting, checking frequently until they’re dry.
Once your herbs are fully dried, store them in an airtight container away from light and heat. They should last for up to a year.
Freezing
Freezing is a good way to preserve herbs that don’t dry well, like basil. Chop the herbs and place them in ice cube trays covered with water or oil. Once they’re frozen, store the cubes in a freezer bag.
Herbal Vinegar or Oils
Herb-infused vinegars and oils make great gifts or additions to your kitchen. They’re also a fun way to extend the shelf life of your herbs while adding an extra layer of flavor to your cooking.
Ways to Use Your Herbs
Now that you have a bounty of fresh, preserved herbs at your disposal, it’s time to put them to use! Here are a few ideas:
Add chopped herbs to soups, stews, and sauces for an extra burst of flavor.
Infuse oil with herbs and use as a salad dressing or for cooking.
Make herb butter by mixing chopped herbs with softened butter and refrigerating.
Use dried herbs in homemade spice blends or rubs for meats and vegetables.
Create a refreshing herbal tea by steeping fresh or dried herbs in hot water.
Add a sprinkle of chopped herbs to roasted vegetables for added flavor.
Want to savor those herb flavors all year round? Get creative with preserving methods to find your perfect match!
Common Herb Garden Problems
Every gardener encounters issues—here are some common problems you might face and how to solve them.
Pests
Herbs can be plagued by a variety of pests, from aphids to caterpillars. Depending on the pest, you may be able to handpick them off, or you may need to use an organic pesticide like neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Disease
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew can affect herbs. To help prevent disease, water at the base of the plant and avoid getting the foliage wet. Good air circulation also helps.
Nutrient Deficiencies
If your herbs’ leaves turn yellow or they seem stunted, they may not be getting the nutrients they need. A complete organic fertilizer can usually remedy this.
Final Thoughts
Growing a kitchen garden is a rewarding pursuit that connects you more closely with the earth and with your food. It’s also an excellent way to sharpen your gardening skills and become more self-sufficient. With our guide, you’re well-equipped to start your own herb garden adventure and enjoy the abundant flavors and aromas it will bring to your life. Happy gardening!
