By Shelby Carroll
N.C. Cooperative Extension

Are you looking for a simple and stylish way to add some life to your front porch? Look no further than a mixed container herb garden. Not only will it bring some greenery and fragrance to your outdoor space, but it also serves a functional purpose by providing fresh herbs for your cooking needs. With a variety of herbs to choose from, creating a mixed container herb garden is a fun and customizable project that will add charm and character to your porch.

Mixed container herb gardens are a unique and versatile way to bring the beauty and functionality of herbs to your front porch. By combining different herbs in a single container, you can create a visually appealing and space-saving garden that adds charm to your outdoor space. The concept involves carefully selecting herbs that complement each other in terms of growth habits, sun requirements and watering needs. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can create a thriving herb garden that not only enhances your porch but also provides you with a fresh and flavorful supply of herbs for cooking and other uses.

A front porch mixed container herb garden offers a multitude of benefits for both your space and your cooking endeavors. Not only does it add visual appeal and a touch of nature to your porch, but it also provides you with a convenient supply of fresh herbs just steps away from your kitchen. Imagine the joy of snipping a handful of basil or mint for your summer cook-out dishes. With a mixed container herb garden, you have the opportunity to elevate your culinary creations while enjoying the beauty and aroma of these versatile plants right at your doorstep.

When choosing the right herbs for your mixed container garden, it’s important to consider a few factors. First, think about the types of herbs you use most often in your cooking. Do you love the flavor of basil? Can’t get enough fresh mint? Start with herbs that you know you’ll enjoy using. Next, consider the growing requirements of each herb. Some herbs, like rosemary and thyme, prefer full sun, while others, like parsley and cilantro, can tolerate partial shade. Lastly, think about how each herb will grow and interact with the others in your container. Choose herbs that have similar growth habits to ensure they can all thrive together. By carefully selecting your herbs, you’ll create a beautiful and harmonious mixed container garden that will bring joy to both your porch and your kitchen.

To ensure the longevity and health of your herb garden, there are a few key maintenance and care tips to keep in mind. Firstly, water your herbs regularly, but be cautious not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Monitor the moisture level of the soil and adjust watering accordingly. Additionally, fertilize your herbs every few weeks with a balanced, organic fertilizer to provide them with essential nutrients. Prune your herbs regularly to encourage new growth and prevent them from becoming too leggy. Lastly, be mindful of pests and diseases that may affect your herbs and take necessary measures to prevent or treat them. By following these maintenance and care tips, you’ll ensure that your herb garden flourishes and continues to provide you with fresh herbs for all your culinary needs.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to using the harvest from your mixed container herb garden. Add a handful of basil to your homemade tomato sauce for a burst of flavor, or infuse your water with a sprig of mint for a refreshing twist. Get creative and experiment with different herb combinations in your recipes to elevate your dishes to new levels of deliciousness. With your very own herb garden, you’ll always have a bountiful supply of aromatic and flavorful herbs right at your fingertips.

Shelby Carroll is agriculture and natural resources agent with the Rowan County Extension.