Herb Growing Systems

Containers

• Pots work especially well for herb growing, because most herbs are small enough to thrive in a 4- or 8-inch pot. Alternatively, group herbs together in a large container or barrel. Set herbs such as basil and oregano on a sunny patio, and reserve dark corners for plants like mint or sorrel.

Spirals

• A spiral-shaped mound made of bricks or rocks creates different ecosystems in which to house dozens of herbs, all in a few square feet. Plant sun-loving herbs that don't need much water near the top, and establish moisture- and shade-tolerant herbs on the northern, bottom side of the spiral.

Dedicated Gardens

• Use lumber, wagon wheels or ladders to separate herbs in an informal herb garden. Clipped herbal hedges, stone urns and brick paths add "bones" to a formal herb garden. Some herb growers set up separate themed herbal gardens, such as culinary, medicinal, tea, fragrant or dyer's herbs.

Companion Planting

• Mixing herbs into flower and vegetable gardens allows homeowners without much space to tuck culinary and ornamental herbs into the landscape. Companion planting also takes advantage of many herbs' ability to deter pests.