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Basic Herb Gardening Tips

Author: LeeDobbins.
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When first learning how to garden, herbs are a great way to start. Herbs are not demanding as they do well in less than perfect soil and do not require the same special care as other plants. Many are not susceptible to insects, and do not need be trimmed as regularly. The following basic herb gardening tips will provide you with a good base to get started on an herb garden:

Having the right tools once you plan what types of herbs you will grow is very important. Many times a small shovel or spade will do just fine. Cuttings from herbs do not require a large hole, and seeds should be kept near the surface. New seeds using compacted soil can take just a fork or spike to aerate. Soil with good drainage is a must as most herbs do not like soil that is too wet.

Intermittent pruning is helpful in optimizing herb growth. A pair of quality pruning shears is a necessity, as ordinary scissors that work well for smaller, more flexible materials, will not work as swiftly or easily as a pair of pruning shears when it comes to woody stems and other jobs.

Using a watering can may be a good means of watering your herbs and is one of the most basic herb gardening tips. The best type of watering can to use is one that has a spout with a series of small holes (as opposed to one with a single, wider opening). This type of can allows you to better regulate the amount of water you are providing your plants. This is important, for the most common mistake people make is to over water their herbs.

Watering cans may be suitable for herbs planted in pots and small areas. But for bigger gardens, an automatic water system that would save you time and money would prove indispensable. Although, it may require replacement every couple of years, a simple and inexpensive drip or soaker hose system can be easily established for the purpose.

One thing about hoses is that they can get damaged in cold weather. The frost will crack and break them. However, they can be spread across a large area in a short amount of time. Simply snake them between your plants and turn on the water. Just remember to take your hose inside when winter comes.

A wheelbarrow is a great tool to assist with your gardening. It can be helpful when you want to move plants that you started in containers to the garden. Another use is when you are extracting weeds. As you weed, you can simply throw them in the wheelbarrow and then remove them from your garden. This is especially helpful in reducing the chance of spreading the seeds of the weeds.

After planting, a 3-4 inch thick pile of mulch can be applied around the base of the plant. Mulch, which can be made from a combination of wood chips, bark, leaves, gravel, or even shredded newspapers, will not only minimize weeding later but also helps enhance soil fertility. It is just necessary, however, to leave about an inch in diameter of space around the base when applying mulch so as to avoid any excess buildup of moisture and heat that may cause unnecessary damage to the plant.

All you need to begin your very own herb garden are some very basic supplies. A few reliable tools, some seeds, and a patch of good earth and you're all set. Follow these basic herb garden tips and watch your garden grow!