Garden like a mom: springtime herbs

I am enjoying taking my desk outside in the morning and sitting in the sun in the afternoons as the girls play. These warmer days tell us that spring is near, and I could not be more excited! Spring is when the plants that have been dormant all winter begin to grow again. Flowers that were damaged by the harsh ice and winter weather begin to peek out of the ground. The days grow longer and that means more time outside. Like me, you may be thinking about heading to a greenhouse to freshen up your yard with a pop of color. Be cautious of purchasing too many tender flowering plants right now because there will inevitably be another cold snap before Easter.

In the meantime, you can begin focusing on growing herbs in pots and in your flowerbeds. Herbs have been around for as long as anyone can remember and have been used for all sorts of things. When the Pilgrims first arrived at Plymouth, they grew sage and used it to brush their teeth. Aloe has long been noted for its healing properties. Where would spaghetti be without oregano? Personally, I grow herbs for the beauty that they add to my garden as well as the wonderful smells they produce. Occasionally, I clip a few here and there to spice up recipes. My favorite herbs that flourish in the spring are calendula for salads, pepper plants, rosemary, all the mints, and of course roses.

Consider the following when planting herbs in your garden:

-They like a lot of sun and well-drained soil. If planting in a container, make sure your pot has a whole in the bottom.

-Weeds can overtake smaller herbs like basil. If planting in the ground be sure to establish a regular weeding routine.

-The more you use your herbs (prune them) the bushier your plants will be.

-Herbs are resilient and if planted in a place that makes them happy, they will return year after year.

Now, as you sprinkle compost around your thyme, remember this: parenting is a garden too. Each tantrum, scraped knee, and bedtime negotiation is a seed planted. And with love, patience, and a dash of humor, you watch them bloom into quirky, resilient beings. So, garden like a mom and keep tending to your rosemary and your little sprout. Water them with laughter, prune away worries, and let the sun of your affection shine upon them. When life gets thorny (because it will), take a deep breath. Remember that the lessons from your herb garden apply equally to the garden of your family.