Grow like pros: Twin Cities garden expert shares tips for year-round herbs

A prickly part of growing herbs is making sure you use enough of them, according to horticulturist Heather Johnson at Bachman's garden center.

Why it matters: "If it grows too quickly, and you're not using it, those leaves can start to go bitter," Johnson tells Axios.

• Basil and mint are beginner-friendly because of their versatility, she says.

The big picture: The benefits of growing your own herbs are far-reaching, from the simple joy of a new hobby to becoming a bit more self-sufficient .

• And fall is the prime time to plant perennial herbs including sage, chives, oregano and thyme.

How it works: Most herbs , especially basil and mint, grow best in either an outdoor or indoor potting mix and in pots that measure 4-6 inches wide in diameter, Johnson says.

• Others such as cilantro, lavender and rosemary require extra care like using a grow light or a heat mat to raise the floor temperature.

What they're saying: Medicine Lake homeowner Janet Carlson keeps her herbs — parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, lavender, dill and chives — on the front step, so they're easy to snip while cooking.

• During colder months , she brings the pots inside. "Most of them survive the winter by a sunny, southeast-facing window," Carlson tells Axios.

Pro tip: Don't worry if your plant grows bigger than your appetite. "You can cut it back up to 75% and that plant will still be perfectly healthy," Johnson says.

What's next: With cooler temperatures and shorter days coming up, expect to see slower growth and slower germination, according to Johnson.

• Most herbs — especially common ones like basil — should be brought in before overnight temperatures drop below 55°F, she says.
• "You can always dig a little hole and check on [seeds] in the soil, but the biggest rule is always patience."

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