Rosemary (figure A) requires bright light, a minimum of water and well-drained soil. A tender shrub, it needs protection from frost. Rosemary complements meat dishes, stews and vegetables. It has very delicate roots, so take care not to disturb them at transplanting time. Basil (figure B) prefers full sun, a fast-draining rich soil and a single dose of fertilizer during the growing season. To promote bushiness and prevent plants from becoming woody, pinch back the flower spikes. Sow seeds in early spring, and make successive sowings every two weeks for these short-lived plants. Beneficial insects are very attracted to basil flowers, so you may want to let a few plants flower for this reason. Sage (figure C) requires full sun and a fast-draining soil . It grows 2' to 3' in height and should be grown outdoors for best performance but may be overwintered indoors. In winter, cut back the foliage and mulch the roots thickly to protect plants from freezing. Indoors they require very little water unless your house is quite warm. Tarragon (figure D) requires full sun and excellent soil. It spreads slowly by creeping rhizomes and should be propagated by division rather than from seed. Plants should be divided every three to four years. Oregano (figure E) requires full sun and isn't fussy about soil, though it needs good drainage. Plants spread by underground stems. To keep them bushy and full, pinch them to prevent blooms from forming. Replant from fresh stock every three years. Oregano is used primarily in Italian and Greek cuisine. Parsley (figure F), a biennial usually grown as an annual, needs afternoon shade in hot-summer regions. Soak the seeds before planting; germination may take as long as three weeks. Parsley attracts beneficial insects.
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