It’s no secret that herbs can be a highly profitable hobby. However, the question many people have is “Are there any cheap herb gardening for beginners?” The answer to this is both “yes” and “no”. However, depending on where you look, you will find herbs growing in your own backyard that are significantly cheaper than buying them.
The most obvious place for growing herbs is in your garden. However, even this method is expensive. You may have initially thought that purchasing your herbs at a nursery is going to be the most economical way, but if you want to get high quality herbs at a reasonable price, then growing them yourself is the way to go. This is a good idea whether you intend on selling your herbs or simply planting them to have a fresh herb scent all year round.
To start growing herbs, you will first need a container garden. These are relatively cheap and easy to set up. A small pot will work best, as you want something simple for your plants to grow in. One of the downsides of growing herbs inside is that they cannot be moved as much, so they are best planted in the same spot each growing season. If you’re only growing a few herbs, this shouldn’t be a problem.
After you have selected your pots and have the soil prepared, you’re ready to start planting. The key to growing most herbs is to follow the soil’s instructions when you plant them. This means that you don’t need to water much if at all, other than to make sure the herbs get enough sunlight. If you live in a dry climate, consider getting a bonsai tree, which will provide your herbs with some shade.
When your herbs start growing in the pots, be careful not to over-water them. This can make them prone to diseases. Instead, use an irrigation system that is just right for your type of soil and the size of your plants. You can purchase one of these systems, or just borrow one from someone you know that has his or her own herb garden.
Once your herbs have sprouted, be sure to remove any weeds and to keep the soil moist. The roots of many herbs do not tolerate too much moisture, so it is important to water them only when the soil seems dry. When choosing herbs to grow in pots, choose ones that don’t have woody roots. This will help keep your watering time much shorter.
After about two to three weeks of spring to early summer, you should be able to lightly water your herbs. Then, as the herbs begin to flower and set fruit, you can increase the amount of watering. In addition, keep your potted herbs in an area where there are other kinds of weeds such as crabgrass, dandelions and other unwanted growths. Pest control is an important part of herb growing and one that are best left to the experts. But, with a little effort, you can do your part in weed control, which means that your potted herbs will be more self-supporting.
One final tip: Don’t forget that you need to mulch in the fall, if you are using potting mix. This will help protect your plants from the damage done by the winter frost. Always check with local nurseries or gardeners to see what mulching materials they recommend. It is the cheapest herb gardening for beginners’ tip you’ll ever get.
Plant your herbs in bright, well-drained soil. If you live in a dry, hot area, you will want to use a soil that has lots of moisture, and lots of it, especially in the sunny spots. Desert and arid areas are not the ideal places for your herbs. So, you will want to use a soil that has good drainage, and plenty of nutrients, for your herbs. You will also want to choose a pot that has a wide opening and wide base to allow air circulation. Both of these will ensure that your herbs will get the sunlight they need to grow healthy and strong.
Some herbs like a rich soil, full of organic matter, while others prefer to have a dry soil that won’t hold moisture. Different herbs will do well in different pot sizes and with different planting methods. Small pots work great for smaller, tender herbs, while larger pots work better for herbs with bigger, stronger leaves.
The final tip is one that will benefit most new herb gardeners. Investing in seeds from a local source can save you up to 75% of what you would pay at the supermarket. That’s money you could be using somewhere else or even making extra money by selling some of your herbs in the summer! Good luck, and happy herb gardening!