Plants

lavender (Lavandula augustifolia)

sweet marjoram (Origanum marjorana)

Greek oregano (Origanum vulgare)

rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis)

sage (Salvia officinalis)

gray santolina (Santolina chamaecyparissus)

thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

lemon thyme (Thymus x citriodorus)

Although the natural habitat of these herbs is along the Mediterranean Sea, you can adapt them to our region with a few changes. The muted colors of gray, bluish-green, and silver, the feathery, dense, leather-like foliage, and wonderful scents capture the eyes and noses of passers-by.

Soil Amendments

Add in equal amounts to soil that is heavy with clay: charcoal, green sand, and pea gravel. Cultivate these into the soil and create a raised bed. (These amendments are available at Rolling Ridge Nursery in Webster Groves.)

Cultural Tips

• Locate your garden in a spot that gets a minimum of six hours of sun to provide the oils that account for herbal flavor.
• Soil pH between 6.5 and 7 produces the best herbs.
• Avoid low-lying areas; create a raised bed if necessary.
• Provide excellent drainage using the soil amendments above.
• Place rocks and boulders around the plants to draw the sun. Instead of mulch, cover the area around the plants with pea gravel or grit.
• Avoid watering these herbs in the evening because fungal disease will spread more easily on wet foliage; water once a week in the early morning, if necessary.