The Dirt on Herbs in a Landscape

Herbs aren't just for the windowsill anymore. Find out how basil, chives, rosemary and thyme can work double duty in the landscape as ornamentals, edibles and structural plants.

Basil

Basil is one of the most common cooking herbs and it can also add a great accent in the garden. Dark purple varieties provide beautiful color and make a nice contrast to the standard green varieties. Basil is an annual herb that needs full sun and regular water. If you're using basil in cooking, you don't want to let it flower and go to seed, as the flavor weakens and the plant becomes spindly. Pinch off the tips of the plant, removing flowers when they develop.