As there are such a wide variety of herbs with a vast range of uses, many people think that growing herbs is difficult and must be an aspect of gardening that is probably best left to the "professionals". Nothing could be further from the truth. Herbs are actually quite undemanding plants to grow and they will thrive in a number of different environments.

Almost all herbs prefer a warm sunny spot and they can be grown in containers, greenhouses, aeroponic containers, window boxes and almost anywhere. Herbs are generally quite hardy plants and also have a wide range of appealing properties. Many have attractive flowers and foliage, some are pleasingly fragrant and others can deter pests and attract friendly insects to the garden. The main decisions to be made in growing herbs are how much space you want to devote to them, whether you want to grow them indoors or out and for what purpose you wish to grow them. They have a wide range of cooking and medicinal purposes and are mostly decorative enough to consider for borders, with the added benefit of the beautiful smells as you brush past. Annual herbs such as basil, fennel, coriander and saffron can easily be grown from seed, planting in the spring and mostly survive for just one season.

Many produce seeds at some stage of their growing cycle and these can be harvested ready fo replanting the next year. Perennial herbs such as mint, thyme, oregano and sage, with the right care, will survive and flourish year after year. Even although they may look devoid of life in the winter, in lacking any foliage and with no visible signs of growth. They are merely lying dormant and come the warmer weather will spring back to life and blossom.

Both the annual and perennial herbs can be propagated and as the colder months approach they can be dug up and potted, or alternatively cuttings can be taken. Pots of herbs will need some care over the winter and in the greenhouse will require good light, watering, ventilation and prompt removal of dead leaves or flowers. Herbs are very versatile and can be stored either freshly frozen at their peak of flavour, usually just before flowering, or cut and dried and stored in airtight containers. Herb gardening is an ideal area for a project for the novice gardener, with a wide selection of herbs to choose from. They can be grown in almost any location and a provide a usefully fragrant or edible product as a reward.

John McGuire is an active gardener and part time doctor. He also runs his own internet marketing business and has a garden information and products website.