The danger of frost is long gone but it’s not too late for starting a garden of fresh herbs! If you haven’t already, now is the time to start your herb garden. The ideal spot for a herb garden is somewhere sunny that is close to your kitchen. You can use pots or window boxes on a deck or window ledge or prepare a piece of ground.

1. Fill containers with organic potting soil or prepare garden space by removing weeds and digging in some composted manure.

2. Select a variety of herbs that you like to use in cooking. I would use ‘starts’ or ‘transplants’ at this point in the season. You can still find them at Clarks Ace Hardware in Ellicott City, Kendall Hardware in Clarksville and Putnam Hill Nursery for unique varieties. Here are some herb suggestions and possible uses:

• Basil- pesto, pizza
• Thyme- lentil soup
• Oregano- pizza
• Tarragon- tarragon chicken
• Marjoram
• Sage
• Garlic Chives- home-made crackers
• Dill- home-made pickles
• Cilantro
• Rosemary- roasted chicken rub
• Lavender

I bought garlic chive 7 years ago and planted it in a pot (thank goodness because otherwise it takes over) and it’s been coming back every year without any attention.

Variegated thyme from my own herb garden!

This year I’ve added a nice variegated thyme and sage to the garden. I’ve also learned that if you plant cilantro after the solstice it won’t bolt (get really tall and go to flower faster, changing the taste of the herb).

3. Water newly planted plants regularly and enjoy them while cooking!