Hardy herbs- Also easy to start in recyclables!
Hardy Herb seeds now being distributed
Currently, hardy herb seeds are in our #OutPlantTheOutBreak little free cabinets. Herbs can be an excellent first step into gardening because of their versatility and only a small amount of space needed. The seed packets being offered in the little free cabinets have enough seed for a urban garden space to grow that crop. If you are hesitant to jump into a full #OutPlantTheOutbreak garden, consider starting a few herbs to grow in pots. Garden pots can live happily in small spaces like a stoop, balcony or on a table so you do not have to bend to reach them. Often, 1 plant of a herb can be enough to give a boost to your kitchen pantry, tea cupboard, liquor caddy, medicine cabinet and pocketbook!
What is a ‘Hardy Herb’?
Herbs are a wide range of plants that include perennials, annuals, medicinals, culinary types, flowers, and more….there is so much range of plant type within ‘herbs’, that they defy rules. Here are some guiding thoughts for where to begin: In a cold climates like Twin Cities, herb seeds that can tolerate colder temps or need long germination periods are good to focus on right now. A sample of these are available in #OutPlantTheOutBreak cabinets. One reference list is here on this Fedco Seeds site. In general, herbs that prefer cool /moderate temps are great for winter sowing method in March; Conversely, perennial herbs that love warm conditions, get a faster start with indoor starting.
Many ways to start herbs
Since the world of herbs crosses so many categories of plants it is a good idea to do a research on their propagation. For example, some herbs do well as cuttings, or being potted up in the fall and grown in a windowsill like Thick Leaf Thyme. Some do okay being directly sowed into your garden bed once the soil is warm enough like borage, cilantro or dill. While not necessary, a set-up for indoor seed starting with lights, shelves, and flats, can certainly work too. Experimentation is a great idea! Try a few seeds in a couple of different methods.
Simpler herb seed starting options
My preferred indoor alternative for heat loving or slow-growers is to use , the wicking system using deli containers. I have used the wicking container method for rosemary, sweet scented marigolds, all the basils and more with success.
If you are just starting a new garden or wanting the simplest option, then feel confident that winter sowing will work for most herbs. Your herbs that are grouped as ‘cool or moderate season’ can be winter-sown now, and ‘warm-season’ ones in April. Winter-sown warm-season seedlings may be a little smaller or have a slower start, but they will eventually catch up. To try it for yourself, see the complete details for the winter sowing method in this post.
*Note- When you need potting soil or other supplies for your seed starting activities, consider supporting St. Paul local small businesses This post has some local suggestions!
#OutPlantTheOutbreak
