Herb Gardening - Prepare Your Herb Garden for Spring

Are your herb plants ready for spring?

As the cool, cruel chill of winter’s wrath slowly makes its way to the other side of the world, several signals are being sent to your herb plants’, alerting them that spring is finally here. Temperatures outside begin to climb, the soil begins to turn warm, making it more porous and allowing for more air flow, sunshine lasts for a lot more hours and all of these factors begin the process of germination, eventually producing new sprouts.

Plants that have been indoors however, may receive mixed signals regarding the onset of warmer weather. If your plants have been placed near a window all winter long, that bright sunlight can give the illusion of spring temperatures. Those plants that were placed in a corner, will not receive much sunlight until the onset of mid-summer. It is important to remember to place your indoor plants in an area of optimum sunlight exposure. Herb plants in particular are for the most part a very sun-loving species.

When the snow finally begins to melt away, all those perennial herb wonders will begin to become visible again. Their brown and withered stalks need to be taken care of in order to assist in the new growth forth coming. This process is quite simple, using a pair of pruning shears, snip the base of the stems close to the grounds surface, about one inch in height. It is very important that you do not pull on these stems, as you may accidentally pull out the roots. Another important tip to go by is to test a few stems first. Sometimes, the stems are already green inside with new growth and are better off left alone.

Although herb plants are able to withstand poor soil conditions, as spring emerges, there are some who may need an added extra boost. Fertilizer crystals will be drawn into the ground as frost or leftover snow cover melts. While this is good, it is important to remember not to over fertilize, for fear of burnt roots.

Over the span of the winter season, the snows will most likely have left the soil compacted. Herb plants prefer a well drained soil, so aerating the soil will help ensure the plants have the proper soil make up they require. Simply use a stake to make small holes in the earth. It is very important that you do not stab the plant or its roots as the roots may have grown outward instead of growing down. Once the soil is aerated, you can add a little topsoil or sandy loam and clay to ensure the plants receive proper drainage and soil nutrients.

The hardy herb plant is mostly insect repellant, however during the spring season, grubs tend to become quite active, feasting on roots and leaves close to the ground. There is however a safe and effective solution to this problem. A little spray of Liquid Sea-Kelp is safe for you and your plants and is highly effective in correcting this problem.

For indoor plants, February is the best time of year. The hours of sunlight are much longer, making you and your beautiful herb plants, a much happier bunch.

         

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