About Herbs

Herbs add more than just flavor. Many of the culinary herbs grown in Minnesota are members of two plant families: the mint family and carrot family.

Culinary herbs are different from vegetables in that they are used in small quantities and are mainly grown for seasoning foods.

Basil

½ ounce fresh = 1 cup chopped leaves

For flavor, use 2 tablespoons chopped fresh

basil or 2 teaspoons dry, crushed basil

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Planting Herbs

It doesn’t matter how much or how little space you have — herbs grow
just as easily in a pot, a garden, or a window box.

To Plant Basil

Sow evenly, covering with 1/4 inch of soil. Once seedlings have developed 2-3 pairs of true leaves, they should be thinned or transplanted to stand 6-12 inches apart. Seeds can also be sown indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside to get a head start on the growing season.

To Plant Oregano

Seeds may be started indoors under fluorescent lights during the late winter months. Plant the seeds/cuttings outdoors in well-drained soil anytime after the last spring frost. For thin plants, plant 8 to 10 inches apart.