The Beginner's Guide to Edible Herbs: 26 Herbs Everyone Should Grow and Enjoy
While there may be a real trick to growing luscious heirloom tomatoes and a necessary dedication to raising a crop of good-for-you beans, herbs are not quite so demanding in terms of time or space; yet these little garden powerhouses can make a big impact in almost any dish. From zesty sauce staples like garlic and oregano to the more nuanced flavors of marjoram and tarragon, herbs are a must in the kitchen as well as in the landscape. And while Smith's beginner's guide may be a gem of simplicity, it's also chock-full of supplemental information including sumptuous recipes and inventive tips for household applications. Each herb's profile covers the many ways it can be harvested and used, and Smith includes helpful at-a-glance charts summarizing pertinent cultural information such as soil and light requirements, mature height, and planting distances. Perfect for novice gardeners, Smith's compact guide can also be appreciated by experienced hands who want to get back to the basics. --Carol Haggas