The uses of herbs for culinary purposes are endless. Space may also limit the number of herbs one should consider planting. Success with herbs is predicated upon careful forethought of the plants' requirements and adequate preparation of the soil before planting. It is often very difficult to go back and correct basic problems like the site of the herb garden or soil nutrient deficiencies that could hinder plant growth. Following are suggestions for choosing the site, preparing the bed and planting herbs.
Site selection is the important first step in preparation for an herb garden.
The site for ground beds should be sunny for at least six to eight hours each day. Shade in the late afternoons of the summer is beneficial to herbs. The planting site should be well drained. The soil should have a pH of about 6.7 and contain a moderate amount of organic matter. Peat will increase the organic matter and dolomitic limestone will increase the pH. If you are not sure of the pH of your soil, have a soil test done through your county's Clemson Extension office.