Herb Garden Care - How to Grow Greenhouse Herb Plants
Herbs are relatively hardy plants and are able to withstand many obstacles including poor soil. However, there is a way to grow these delectable treats of nature without having to deal with the ever constant changing of the elements. Growing herbs in a greenhouse provides both the gardener and the plants a wonderful environment which can be helpful and enjoyable. There are several herb plants from which to choose that take particularly well to this environment.
Chamomile
A specific variety of the Chamomile plant called the Roman Chamomile is the perfect choice for greenhouse growing. This hardy plant combined with well drained soil and limitless amounts of sunlight can grow anywhere from two to three feet high. The Roman Chamomile plant features apple scented leaves and beautifully delicate flowers. It is useful in creating aromatic potpourri as well as making a delectable warm cup of tea.
Chives
The well known Chive is another herb that thrives in both an outdoors environment and a greenhouse setting. There are a few variations of the Chive plant, all of which are perennials.
The Common Chive, one of the most well known varieties offers a mild onion flavor and makes a wonderful addition to soups, salads and other favorite recipes. The Curly Chive offers a beautiful display in a greenhouse rock garden however; this particular variety is not one that should be used for cooking. Lastly, the Garlic Chive brings a garlic and onion flavoring that adds a little zing to any favorite cuisine.
Parsley
Parsley is an herb that is commonly used as a garnish as well as being a unique additive to favorite dishes. This hardy plant is another variety that thrives well in a greenhouse setting. Very easy to grow, Parsley will thrive in full sun light or partial shade. A simple planting in rich soil with a well monitored watering will soon produce elegant green foliage that will beautify any environment.
Basil
Well known for its use in Italian cooking, Basil is another hardy plant that will thrive in a greenhouse environment. This plant enjoys hours and hours of sunlight and will even grow in the cold cruel temperatures of winter. It is important to remember to ensure that the soil is well drained in order to ensure optimum growth. The stalks will grow from five to seven inches high and will display a beautiful flower. After harvesting the stalks, prepare them with a proper drying method. This process will give you a wonderful and flavorful additive that is sure to get your taste bud’s craving that delicious Italian cuisine.
Catnip
This herb is one your feline friends are sure to enjoy. Catnip is another hardy herb that will thrive quite well in a greenhouse setting. The Common Catnip variety is known for driving cats a little wacky, but it is also able to make a very interesting flavor of tea for humans. Another variety called Greek, displays a much smaller gray-green leaf and is sometimes referred to as Catmint. Both of these varieties repel insects making them the perfect addition to any greenhouse garden.
Coriander
There are two varieties of this particular herb. The Common variety is an annual, while the Vietnamese version is a perennial. Both of these varieties make for a wonderful addition to a greenhouse garden. This herb comes from the base stalk of the Cilantro plant and offers a spicy addition to many favorite recipes. It has also been used for centuries as a medicinal element in Mexico and Southeast Asia.
Geraniums
Not very many people know that a Geranium is more than just a beautiful flowering plant; it is also considered an herb. Herbs are defined as non-woody stalked plants that decay when the cold winter months arrive. However, perennial varieties will re-grow their stalks, year after year. With the Geraniums delicate scent, this plant, when properly dried makes an excellent addition to a sachet or beautiful potpourri bouquet.
Another piece of information that is not well known is that there are a dozen different varieties of this plant. There is an Apricot version which display delicate pink flowers and offers a distinct smell. In addition, there is a Chocolate Mint variety that just as its name states has a wonderfully delectable aroma. Lastly, there is a French Vanilla variety whose fresh and delicious scent is perfect for potpourri.
With a simple routine of allowing your plants to receive plenty of warmth and sunlight, combined with optimal soil and well monitored watering, a beautiful and aromatic greenhouse garden is soon to become your favorite destination.
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