Hi, Reader,

After teaching myself to garden over 12 years ago, there is one type of plant I wish I'd planted earlier - fresh herbs. 🌿

I was working at a farmers market at the time, and I was way more interested in vegetables. I wanted heaps of tomatoes, zucchini, onions, and more.

If I grew any herbs, it was usually basil or cilantro to use in pesto and salsa.

This wasn't a bad idea in any way. I was growing what I knew I would use and enjoy!

But here's the thing...herbs can shift how you use your outdoor space, and they don't require much of a footprint.

They add this whole sensory experience.

All summer long, I find myself running my hands over a bush of lemon balm or sage to feel their soft leaves.

I pick leaves just to smell and enjoy.

I also find myself darting outside more and more simply to grab a sprig of thyme or rosemary for this or that.

All of these little moments help you spend more time in your garden actually enjoying it, not just working.

It also makes nature part of your actual, day-to-day life.

Plus, growing herbs I didn't already know and love helped expand my palate. I now use my homegrown dried dill in everything - soups, dips, dressings, salads, and more.

Fortunately, herbs are also easy to preserve. You can dry them, make pesto, infuse them in butter, make herb salts, and so much more.

If you have even the tiniest space to grow plants - a kitchen windowsill, back porch, or small garden - consider planting some herbs this year. Any type will do. Just give yourself permission to play a bit!

🌿 Ways to Use Fresh Herbs

​How to Freeze Basil In Olive Oil​

​How to Dry Fresh Dill Fronds and Seeds​

​How To Dry Green Onions​

​How To Dry Parsley​

​Creamy Zucchini Basil Pesto​

​How to Make Chive Blossom Butter​

​How to Make Dill Salt​

​Homemade Lemon Balm Pesto​

​How to Harvest and Dry Lemon Balm​

​Homemade Roasted Garlic Butter with Fresh Herbs​

Plus, this doesn't even touch on all the different ways to use fresh herbs in your meals! Here are some fun ways to infuse herby goodness into your snacks, drinks, and dishes.