Italian Herb Garden Collection

Herbarium Italicum Collectionis

• Growing Temp 60°F – 75°F

• Days to Maturity 70-90 days

Ease of Cultivation and Culinary Use: The Italian Herb Garden Collection features a delightful assortment of classic herbs including basil, oregano, parsley, and thyme, essential for authentic Italian cooking. These herbs are generally easy to cultivate, thriving in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners, they enhance a wide variety of dishes, from pasta and sauces to salads and pizzas, bringing a taste of Italy to your kitchen.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant the seeds from the Italian Herb Garden Collection outdoors after the last frost in rich, well-drained soil. Sow the seeds at a depth of ¼ to ½ inch, spacing them according to each herb’s requirements, typically about 12 inches apart in rows that are 18 inches apart. Germination times will vary among the different herbs, usually occurring within 7–21 days. Keep the soil evenly moist during germination and ensure the plants receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day for optimal growth.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To start early, sow the herb seeds indoors 4–8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with quality potting mix, lightly scattering the seeds on the surface and covering them with a thin layer of soil. Maintain a temperature around 70°F to promote healthy germination. Once the seedlings have developed two sets of true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors, spacing them appropriately for each herb to allow for healthy growth.

Harvesting: To determine when the herbs in the Italian Herb Garden Collection are ready for harvest, look for vibrant, well-established plants with fully formed leaves, typically within 70-90 days. Begin harvesting once the plants have grown sufficiently, snipping off leaves or stems as needed. The best time to harvest is early in the morning, after the dew has dried, when the herbs are most fragrant and flavorful. Regular harvesting will encourage continuous growth and provide a fresh supply of herbs throughout the growing season.