bought cilantro, italian basil and flat leaf parsley today...i plan on growing them in pots... what do i need to know?
First, sorry for taking a while to reply, but this time of year is very busy. Herbs will generally do very well in pots. Get pots that are a good size, about the size of a gallon paint can (but don't use old paint cans). Be sure there are a few good size holes in the bottom, and that you have don't set the pots flat on anything that will block the holes. Drainage is very, very important. Some folks put a hand full of large gravel in the bottom of the pots to help the holes from getting clogged.. In any case, use a potting soil that will allow very good drainage. I use a half & half mix of regular potting soil & the special soil for cacti. Herbs don't need very much fertilizer, not much at all. My production herb garden is mostly clay & gravel with some sand. I broadcast some good compost over the whole garden once a year (early spring) and if anything looks like it needs a boost, give it a some compost tea. Herbs like plenty (6 to 8 hours) of sun light. A little shade part of the day won't hurt. The only other suggestion I'd make is to get some sage, rosemary, oragano & thyme. And maybe some mint. All of these are perennials & will produce for many years. Cilantro and basil are tender annuals. 35 or 36 degrees F. and basil is dead. Parsley is a biennial, so it'll go to seed & die the end of next year. None of these (nor most other herbs) are much bothered by bugs or disease. Well, that's a brief overview, do you have any specific questions? Peace, poor_old_dad
What Dad said. And don't be afraid to trim them as they grow and use them in your cooking...the plants benefit and so does your cooking.
