Herbs in the Burbs
By: Brian Puckett, Vice Chairman Helena Beautification Board
A Mint Julep Afternoon
Whether you love to cook or sip on a Mint Julep, growing your own herbs can be a fun and simple way to make that special dish or drink even more so.
Here in Helena, many people don’t have much space to go out and plant a huge garden leaving some scratching their head as to what to do. Herbs can be planted truly anywhere; inside, outside, in a pot, in the ground and some even just in water. From a small plastic container on your kitchen window seal to expansive rows of green there is truly no excuse not to grow herbs.
As you think of the different types of plants to plant in your outdoor planters this Spring consider mixing in a few herb plants in with your annuals. This technique allows you to not only have some awesome colors for your containers, but gives you the ability to use your plants for more than just a display. Remember these principles when planting a container for your home. First, you need a “thriller”, a plant that will grow tall. A “filler”, plants that will help fill in the container. And, finally a “spiller”. These plants will spill over the edge of your container. Personally, I plan to add Rosemary as my “thriller” plant in my front door planters and some mint and sage as “spillers” for the back patio planters. Sage makes a great planter spiller with its grayish green textured leaves.
So you might still be on the fence of planting herbs, because you also want some longevity in what you plant. Herbs have you covered there too. Many herb plants are perennials meaning that they will keep coming back year after year. Below is a listing of herbs that are annuals and the ones that are perennials.
Get outside (or stay inside)!! But plant your herbs!!
Here in Helena, many people don’t have much space to go out and plant a huge garden leaving some scratching their head as to what to do. Herbs can be planted truly anywhere; inside, outside, in a pot, in the ground and some even just in water. From a small plastic container on your kitchen window seal to expansive rows of green there is truly no excuse not to grow herbs.
As you think of the different types of plants to plant in your outdoor planters this Spring consider mixing in a few herb plants in with your annuals. This technique allows you to not only have some awesome colors for your containers, but gives you the ability to use your plants for more than just a display. Remember these principles when planting a container for your home. First, you need a “thriller”, a plant that will grow tall. A “filler”, plants that will help fill in the container. And, finally a “spiller”. These plants will spill over the edge of your container. Personally, I plan to add Rosemary as my “thriller” plant in my front door planters and some mint and sage as “spillers” for the back patio planters. Sage makes a great planter spiller with its grayish green textured leaves.
So you might still be on the fence of planting herbs, because you also want some longevity in what you plant. Herbs have you covered there too. Many herb plants are perennials meaning that they will keep coming back year after year. Below is a listing of herbs that are annuals and the ones that are perennials.
Get outside (or stay inside)!! But plant your herbs!!
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About the Author
A twelve-year resident of Helena, Brian is actively involved in civic and faith based initiatives and is currently serving as Vice Chairman and Secretary of the Helena Beautification Board, Secretary of the Helena Elementary PTO, and a second term on the Riverchase Business Association Board of Directors, where his eye for design has help lead the Riverchase. Brian has an MBA and works at Regions Bank. Mr. Puckett is married with two daughters. With a knack for design, Brian makes ideas come to life. His eye for detail bodes well from small planter flower selections to grandiose projects. A skilled woodcrafter, he recently showcased his skills in the various holiday displays throughout Old Town.