Planting herbs that will attract natural predators for the "bad bugs" will keep your garden healthy and help you avoid the use of harmful pesticides. Pennyroyal (Mentha pulgium) is an herb that helps control insects such as aphids, ants and mosquitos. Members of the carrot family, such as coriander (Coriandrum sativum) and fennel attract many beneficial insects.
Most herbs are easily grown in a container. Depending on your climate, you may find that many do not over-winter and you will have to replace them each spring. Even if you don’t need to replace them, do replenish and freshen the soil each year. Full sun is the preference for most herbs. Water them well, but don’t overdo it; fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
Herbs come in all shapes and sizes and provide a sensuous, fragrant addition to any garden. Add them to your perennials, underplant them in containers of tree roses or clematis, cultivate kitchen favorites or try your hand at more exotic varieties....they will reward you with captivating scents, appealing textures and prolific growth in exchange for minimal care.
This article is part of the Suite101 "Container Gardening" topic area. For the other Suite101 articles and discussion forums on Container Gardening, see the Welcome Page on Suite101.
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