What Herbs to Plant Depending on Season and Climate
Most herbs are hardy plants. They are usually willing to grow anywhere and with any soil condition. This doesn't mean, however that herbs do not have preferences when it comes to the climate and types of seasons. The best places to grow almost all herbs are temperate ones, not too hot and rather cool. Northern America and Europe are good places to grow herbs. Many herbs will thrive in these areas of the world because they get enough sunlight, a fair amount of water, and stay cool despite the sun. In fact, some herbs can survive the winter season and some back naturally the next spring. Some great cool climate herbs are lemon balm, mint, coriander, fennel, and chives.
In turn, some herbs appreciate warmer climates. If you live in a country with a warmer climate or a warmer part of the Americas and Europe, try growing rosemary, lemongrass, sage, thyme, laurel, oregano, and basil. These herbs should do well in your area. Plus, since you live in a warmer region, you can also cultivate spices along with your herbs.
Just because an herb prefers a warmer climate doesn't mean it will not grow in a cooler one. The same can be said for an herb that prefers a cooler climate, it can still survive in a warmer one. Remember that many herbs can grow anywhere. It's only in extreme conditions of cold and heat that herbs can die. For example, a very hot country will have a difficult time cultivating chamomile, but it is not impossible. You can choose to plant your chamomile in the shade or away from direct sun. A cool country may struggle to grow a warm climate herb like aloe, but placing it out in full sunlight with very little shade can help it grow well.
There are tricks to helping your herbs acclimatize. When choosing your herbs for your garden, consider your climate and seasons and what herbs go best with it. You can research on your chosen herb, or ask the local gardening store.
If you live in a tropical country or a place where the rainy season is long, you may have problems growing most of the popular herbs. Most herbs like well draining soil and some tropical countries have days of rain that doesn't allow the soil to drain well enough for your herbs. As a result, the roots rot and the plant dies. You will have to find a way to shield your herbs from too much rain during the rainy season. Don't despair if this seems like too much work, though. There are plenty of tropical herbs you can cultivate. They may not be among the popular choices, but plenty of them are exotic and beautiful, and you will appreciate discovering their many different uses. Try growing some ylang-ylang, wild nutmeg, and cinnamon basil!
