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Herbs

Herbs That Love the Sun: A Guide to Growing Herbs in Full Sun

by Donna
written by Donna 5 minutes read

Herbs That Thrive in the Sun

Introduction

If you have a sunny spot in your garden, you’re in luck! Many herbs love to soak up the sun’s rays. In fact, some herbs even need full sun to grow their best. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of herbs that like full sun and provide tips on how to grow them successfully.

Herbs That Like Full Sun

Some herbs can tolerate partial shade, but they’ll really thrive in full sun. These herbs include:

  • Basil
  • Chamomile
  • Chives
  • Cilantro
  • Lemon balm
  • Mint
  • Parsley
  • Rosemary
  • Summer savory

Herbs That Need Full Sun

For the most part, herbs that need full sun are happiest when they get at least six hours of sunlight per day. These herbs include:

  • Dill
  • Fennel
  • Lavender

Benefits of Growing Herbs in Full Sun

There are many benefits to growing herbs in full sun. Some of the benefits include:

  • Increased growth: Herbs that get plenty of sunlight will grow faster and produce more leaves and flowers.
  • Improved flavor: Sunlight helps herbs develop their full flavor.
  • Reduced disease: Herbs that are grown in full sun are less likely to develop diseases.

Tips for Growing Herbs in Full Sun

Here are a few tips for growing herbs in full sun:

  • Choose the right location: When choosing a location for your herbs, make sure it gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.
  • Plant at the right time: The best time to plant herbs is in the spring or fall.
  • Water regularly: Herbs need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Fertilize regularly: Herbs benefit from regular fertilization.
  • Harvest regularly: Harvesting herbs regularly will encourage them to produce more leaves and flowers.

How to Choose the Right Herbs for Full Sun

When choosing herbs for full sun, consider the following factors:

  • Your climate: Some herbs are better suited to certain climates than others.
  • Your soil conditions: Herbs have different soil preferences.
  • Your personal preferences: Choose herbs that you enjoy using in cooking or other applications.

When to Plant Herbs in Full Sun

The best time to plant herbs in full sun is in the spring or fall. This gives the herbs time to establish themselves before the hot summer weather arrives.

How to Care for Herbs in Full Sun

Herbs that are grown in full sun need regular watering, fertilizing, and harvesting.

  • Watering: Herbs need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
  • Fertilizing: Herbs benefit from regular fertilization. Fertilize your herbs every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Harvesting: Harvesting herbs regularly will encourage them to produce more leaves and flowers. Harvest herbs by cutting the stems just above a leaf node.

Recipes Using Herbs Grown in Full Sun

There are many delicious recipes that you can make using herbs grown in full sun. Here are a few ideas:

  • Basil pesto: Basil pesto is a classic Italian sauce that is made with fresh basil, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts.
  • Chamomile tea: Chamomile tea is a calming and relaxing tea that is made with dried chamomile flowers.
  • Cilantro lime rice: Cilantro lime rice is a flavorful side dish that is made with rice, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
  • Dill pickles: Dill pickles are a classic summer treat that is made with cucumbers, dill, and vinegar.
  • Fennel salad: Fennel salad is a refreshing and flavorful salad that is made with fennel, orange segments, and olive oil.
  • Lavender lemonade: Lavender lemonade is a refreshing and unique lemonade that is made with lavender flowers, lemon juice, and sugar.
  • Mint julep: A mint julep is a classic Southern cocktail that is made with mint, bourbon, and sugar.
  • Parsley salad: Parsley salad is a simple and refreshing salad that is made with parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil.
  • Rosemary chicken: Rosemary chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is made with chicken, rosemary, and olive oil.
  • Summer savory stuffing: Summer savory stuffing is a flavorful and aromatic stuffing that is made with summer savory, bread crumbs, and vegetables.
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Shrubs

Zone 8 Shrubs: Your Ultimate Guide to Selecting, Planting, and Caring for Beautiful Shrubs in a Temperate Climate

by Gregory
written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Zone 8 Shrubs: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Introduction

If you live in Zone 8, you’re in luck! This temperate climate is perfect for growing a wide variety of shrubs. From colorful flowering bushes to drought-tolerant evergreens, there’s something for every garden in Zone 8.

Characteristics of Zone 8

Zone 8 is a broad region that stretches from Texas to North Carolina and parts of the Pacific Northwest. It’s characterized by mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and hot summers with warm days and cool nights. The long growing season in Zone 8 allows for a wide range of plants to thrive.

Popular Zone 8 Shrubs

With so many options to choose from, selecting the right shrubs for your Zone 8 garden can be overwhelming. Here are some of the most popular and easy-to-grow varieties:

  • Butterfly Bush: This drought-tolerant shrub attracts beautiful butterflies to your garden. It prefers full sun and needs regular pruning to prevent overgrowth.

  • Bigleaf Hydrangea: Known for its stunning flower clusters, bigleaf hydrangeas add a touch of elegance to any garden. The flower color varies depending on the pH of the soil, with alkaline soil producing pink blooms and acidic soil resulting in blue hues.

  • Lavender: This fragrant herb makes a great low hedge in Zone 8 gardens. It thrives in well-drained soil and plenty of sunshine.

  • Forsythia: The bright yellow flowers of forsythia bushes herald the arrival of spring. They provide greenery throughout the summer and can be planted singly or as part of a trimmed hedge.

  • Knock Out Rose: This popular rose cultivar is easy to grow and disease-resistant. It produces fragrant blooms in a variety of colors and thrives in the Zone 8 climate.

  • Wax Myrtle: For an ornamental shrub without flowers, wax myrtle is a great choice. It’s an evergreen with glossy green leaves that grows quickly and easily, even in poor soil and drought conditions.

Choosing the Right Shrubs for Your Garden

When selecting shrubs for your Zone 8 garden, consider the following factors:

  • Size: Choose shrubs that are appropriate for the size of your garden and the space available.

  • Sun Exposure: Some shrubs prefer full sun, while others tolerate partial shade. Determine the amount of sunlight your garden receives before making your selections.

  • Soil Conditions: Different shrubs have different soil preferences. Make sure the shrubs you choose are suited to the type of soil in your garden.

  • Water Needs: Consider the water requirements of each shrub and choose varieties that are drought-tolerant or can withstand regular watering.

  • Purpose: Decide whether you want shrubs for privacy, landscaping, or simply adding beauty to your garden.

Planting and Care

Once you’ve selected your shrubs, it’s time to plant them. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the shrub in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down firmly to remove any air pockets. Water the shrub deeply and regularly until it’s established.

Most shrubs in Zone 8 are relatively low-maintenance. They generally require regular watering, especially during the first growing season. Once established, drought-tolerant varieties can survive with minimal watering. Fertilizing your shrubs once or twice a year will help them thrive.

Some shrubs, such as butterfly bush and forsythia, benefit from regular pruning to encourage new growth and flowering. Other shrubs, like wax myrtle, can be trimmed into various shapes for a more formal look.

Conclusion

With its temperate climate and wide variety of shrub options, Zone 8 is a gardener’s paradise. By following these tips and choosing the right shrubs for your garden, you can create a beautiful and thriving outdoor space that will bring you years of enjoyment.

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