Have you ever purchased a bunch of fresh basil or parsley only to use a small amount for your recipe, toss it in the fridge, and then throw it out when it’s gone bad because you forgot about it? How many times do you reach for the easy dried herbs, but are disappointed by the flavor of your dish? Growing your own fresh herbs is very simple to do and doesn’t require a large amount of space. The taste and quality of your food is elevated to new levels with the addition of herbs you have grown yourself and picked the same day you will use them. Fine dining Orlando restaurant, Christini’s, has some tips to help you get started on your own herb garden.
Start by doing a little research so you can determine where your plants will receive the best light. Whether planting an entire garden or planter-growing your favorites, adequate sunlight for the species of herbs you have decided to grow will be the driving force to healthy and delicious herbs. Of course, appropriate watering and fertilizers will be important too.
Whether you choose to grow in containers or in the ground, be sure to start your plants in new potting soil. It contains the maximum amount of nutrients to give your plants the right environment to grow strong. Study how big your herb plants are anticipated to grow and be sure to plant them with enough space between them to do so. If you are container growing, make sure there are adequate drainage holes to allow water to not pool around the roots of the plants, causing them to rot. That’s a sure-fire way to ensure failure.
Planting seeds and watching them grow is a great experience for children and will hopefully spark their interest in gardening. If you don’t have the time to be the consummate nurturer, it is okay. Purchase seedlings from a reputable nursery or local farmer’s market and plant them according to the instructions. This method will bring you that much closer to enjoying the savory goodness in your recipes.
Start small by selecting a few of your favorites. Basil, parsley, and rosemary are pretty easy to grow for the novice herb gardener. You will need to be prepared to deal with garden pests, such as squirrels, birds, and insects. Most can be dispatched by a quick visit to your nursery for advice on the application of appropriate treatments. Don’t be discouraged as this happens to even the most experienced gardener.
With a little care and a gentle touch, you will soon be harvesting your fresh herbs to add to your favorite recipes.
If gardening isn’t your thing and you want to savor the freshest herbs in your cuisine, call Christini’s Ristorante Italiano to make your reservations today at (407) 583-4472. Orlando fine dining destination, Christini’s, will present you with dishes made from the best, locally sourced, and fresh ingredients.
