If you want your spices to be actually fresh, delicious, and full of flavors, then you can try growing them by yourself!
The best thing about spices is that most of them are relatively low-maintenance, so you can grow them in different types of climate and weather conditions.
Here are some general rules on how you can grow them.
Choose a Sunny Spot
Pick a spot in your garden that gets plenty of sunlight. Most spices love the sun, so this will help them grow well.
Good Soil
Make sure the soil is well-draining. You can add some compost or well-rotted manure to make it richer.
Start with Seeds or Seedlings
You can either start your spices from seeds or buy small plants from a nursery. Starting with seedlings is often easier for beginners.
Watering
Water your spice plants regularly. They usually prefer consistent moisture but don't like to be waterlogged.
Mulching
Adding a layer of mulch around your spice plants helps to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil cool.
Pruning
Once your spice plants start growing, you can prune them to encourage bushier growth. This also helps to keep the plants productive.
Harvesting
Harvest your spices when they're ready. Each spice may have a different harvesting time, so check specific guidelines for the spices you're growing.
Common Spices to Grow
Some easy spices to grow include basil, mint, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. They're not only delicious but also quite forgiving for beginners.
Pests
Keep an eye out for pests. If you notice any, you can pick them off by hand or use natural remedies like neem oil.
Enjoy Your Harvest
Once your spices are ready, use them in your cooking to add fresh and flavorful touches to your meals.
Previously, we talked about choosing a perfect irrigation system.