Most herbs are compact and need minimal space. But there are some that, if left to themselves, will attempt to take over the garden.
Annual Herbs
An annual plant is one that only lasts for one growing season. Many herbs are annual and will need to be replanted each year. These include basil, chamomile and dill, although dill is very good at re-seeding itself. Annual herbs won’t grow too large, so they can be safely planted in appropriate locations without fear that they will attempt to smother their plant neighbors.
Perennial Herbs
A perennial is a plant that will return year after year. Many herbs fall into this category, however there are some that will only return in warmer climates, and are in fact annual in cooler ones. Perennial herbs tend to grow larger each year in terms of width, and sometimes in height. As such, they often begin to crowd into neighboring plants.
A strong example of this tendency is mint. Mint is a tenacious herb. It will spread very quickly, even if only a few sprigs were initially planted. Mint has strong roots that will travel over and under ground in long runners, seeking to expand its territory. For this reason, mint is best planted in its own contained bed, away from other plants. Otherwise, unwanted tendrils can be more difficult to dig out than a weed.
Oregano is another example. Though not nearly as insidious as mint, oregano only takes a couple of years to grow into a large, albeit flat, bush.
Chives are a little easier to contain than mint or oregano, but they, too grow very large after a time. In addition to returning from the roots each season, chives also reseed themselves.
Containing Herbs
Besides their culinary and aromatic appeal, one of the advantages of herbs is their hardiness. If wanting to downsize a growth of herbs, simply dig a section out by the roots. This section can be replanted if desired. A concentrated group of chives, for example, can be dug out completely, split into groups, and replanted into a line. The chives should continue to grow as before.
Spaces
Herbs can be planted in the main garden, in flower gardens, in border gardens, in rock gardens, and in containers of various sizes. They can even be planted in small windowsill pots. Herbs such as lavender have beautiful blooms and an aromatic scent. Even chives have purple flowers beginning in their second year.
Versatile and useful, herbs are easy to find a space for.
Monica C. Webster - Monica C. Webster is a graduate of the University of Toronto, with a BA in Art and Art History and a minor in English. She also has a ...
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