Growing mixed herb plants in containers is an easy method to create different, fresh herbal combinations. Containers are convenient because they allow herbs to grow upside down, from full sun to partial shade, which allows the plant to get the most sunlight and watering needed. Mixed herb gardening with other plants is also an economical way to make a healthy, home-grown, low-calorie, high nutritive food. Containers for growing herbs and vegetables will add variety to your herb garden.
For planting, select mixed herb plants that are healthy, firm, and hardy. They should be planted in individual pots, or in groupings of three to five. If you are planting more than one plant, be sure to separate them by at least a foot. Planting herbs and/or vegetables too closely together can result in leaf discoloration and disease.
When you are ready to plant, select the containers that are large enough to hold the bulk of your herb garden. The pots should have sturdy, well-poured, well-wed glass or Terra cotta walls, so that moisture will drain away from the soil as fast as possible. If you want your herbs to thrive, the soil must have good drainage. Be sure to choose containers that are well drained. Potted mixed plants assorted plants, including some bulbs, are best planted in large pots that are made specifically for gardening with small, limited space. A raised bed offers more space for the same purpose.
Pots that are shallow and have a shallow base are great for container herbs, especially mixed herbs. They will get full sun in the morning, and some herbs, like parsley, will stay out all day and grow into beautiful, lush plants. But make sure that your herbs are not exposed to hard sunlight. Some herbs like mint, chives and tarragon do not do well in direct sunlight.
There are several other options for containers you can use to grow mixed herb plants, but not all of them lend themselves to a mixed herb container garden. For instance, many perennial herbs do well when they are planted in a single plant, say marjoram, basil, or chives. But if you have annual herbs, such as thyme and sage, you may find it difficult to keep them all alone. A better idea would be to plant them in a mixed combination of annual and perennial herbs. That way, your herbs will get the benefit of the annual herbs, and the annual herbs will get the best of the perennials.
Keep in mind that herb plants do best when they are watered often. Many varieties will not do well in containers that sit just a little bit–they need frequent watering to avoid wilting and to encourage root growth. Also, remember that herbs do best in partial sun, so make sure that your container has indirect lighting. If you put your plants in a dark pot and don’t provide any indirect light, your herbs will be in danger of burning–and that’s what you don’t want!
One thing you do want to look for is good soil that your mixed herb plants will like. Soil that is too heavy or too light will stunt the growth of your plants. Thyme, chives, mint, and tarragon do best in slightly moist soils with lots of air. If you’re growing your plants in containers, make sure that you let your pots stay in the sun as much as possible, and you’ll probably want to give your plants a weekly watering to keep them healthy.
Your mixed herb garden is going to require a lot of dedicated care, especially in the first year. But as your plants get established and as you see your herbs take off, you’ll find that you’ll have a wonderful source of culinary herbs for your food pantry and for taking on vacation. Just remember that it is an annual hobby, not a permanent residence. Don’t expect weeds to just grow and sit there. Make sure you water your plants, give them sunlight, and give them plenty of rest between waterings.