Woody Herbs: The Basics
What are Woody Herbs?
Woody herbs are plants that have hard, woody stems, unlike herbaceous herbs which have soft stems. They are typically evergreen, meaning they maintain their green color all year round. Some examples of woody herbs include rosemary, thyme, sage, and lavender.
How to Identify Woody Herbs
The key difference between woody herbs and herbaceous herbs is their stems. Woody herbs have hard, woody stems that support the plant, while herbaceous herbs have soft, green stems. Woody herbs may also have a more compact and bushy appearance than herbaceous herbs.
Types of Woody Herbs
There are many different types of woody herbs, including:
- Evergreen woody herbs: These herbs maintain their green color all year round, even in cold climates. Examples include rosemary, thyme, and bay.
- Deciduous woody herbs: These herbs lose their leaves in the fall and go dormant during the winter. Examples include lavender and hyssop.
- Perennial woody herbs: These herbs live for more than two years. Examples include rosemary, thyme, and sage.
- Annual woody herbs: These herbs complete their life cycle in one year. Examples include basil and marjoram.
Growing and Caring for Woody Herbs
Woody herbs are relatively easy to grow and care for. They prefer hot sunlight, dry air, and well-drained soil. They should be watered regularly, but allowed to dry out between waterings. Woody herbs can be fertilized monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning Woody Herbs
Pruning is an important part of caring for woody herbs. It helps to maintain a neat and tidy appearance and encourages new growth. Woody herbs should be pruned in early spring or after flowering. When pruning, remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
Benefits of Growing Woody Herbs
Woody herbs offer a number of benefits for gardens and landscapes, including:
- Attractive foliage: Woody herbs have a variety of attractive foliage, including green, gray, and variegated leaves.
- Fragrant flowers: Many woody herbs produce fragrant flowers that attract pollinators.
- Culinary uses: Woody herbs are often used in cooking and baking.
- Medicinal uses: Some woody herbs have medicinal properties.
Conclusion
Woody herbs are a versatile and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. They offer a variety of benefits, including attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and culinary and medicinal uses. By following the tips in this article, you can successfully grow and care for woody herbs in your own garden.
