Herbs

This is an illustrated guide to varieties, cultivation and care, with step-by-step instructions and over 160 beautiful photographs. It includes a photographic directory of over 60 varieties, including basil, borage, catmint, chives, fennel, lavender, marjoram, mint, parsley, rosemary, sage and thyme. For each variety, there is full botanical information on growth, height, spread, size and flowering, as well as practical advice on creating your own herb garden. It includes step-by-step guidance on growing and caring for herbs, including buying, planting indoors and outside, growing in containers, harvesting, taking cuttings and sowing seed. Herbs have always played an important role in everyday life, both for seasoning food and for restoring good health. Growing your own allows you to explore the great beauty and usefulness of herbs, from humble parsley to stately angelica. This pretty handbook looks at the fascinating history of herbs and their medicinal uses, and shows how they can add scent and beauty to any garden. Over 60 varieties are described and illustrated, together with advice on how to care for them. Whether you grow a small window box of purple basil and golden sage, or plan your own intricate herb knot garden, the flowers and foliage will bring pleasure to every gardener.