Generally speaking, the initial and primary motive of most people for planting a herb garden, or at least setting aside a small area in their garden for growing herbs, is the satisfaction of having fresh produce available for the kitchen. There are however two other major benefits which are often overlooked. One concerns design and aesthetics, while the other has implications for pest control. Due to these "hidden" bonuses, I usually manage to persuade my customers to include a section for herbs and spices, even if they were not initially intending to do so.

Herbs are in fact worth growing because they are for the most part, attractive ornamental plants. The overwhelming majority are of Mediterranean origin, belonging to the sage family or Labiatae. As a result of their botanical proximity, they have many anatomical and morphological features in common. Why is this significant? The answer lies in the fairly obvious fact that plants that look alike in some of their features, while differing in others, tend to look good in each others company. To be technical, one can say that they answer simultaneously to two principles of good design - namely unity on the one hand, and diversity on the other. In plain English, one could say that they "go well together".

Absolutely stunning compositions can be derived from combining such plants as Aloysia (Lippia citriodora) Sages (Salvia) and Fennel (Foeniculum) for some height, together with a whole range of cushion like plants such as Melissa, Parsley, (Petrosilinum crispum) and some varieties of Basil.(Ocimum basilicum) Meanwhile prostrate varieties of Rosmary and ground hugging thyme species (Thymus serpyllum) cover the soil. Many grey leaved plants can be included such as Artemisia arborescens, and certain sage species like Salvia officianalis. These contrast beautifully with purple leaved varieties of Basil such as "Dark Opel". Many of these plants, particularly the sages, have pretty flowers as well, but their foliage and handsome form mean they look good almost all the year round. It should be noted however, that in order to maintain a compact and tidy growth habit, herb plants need frequent clipping and pinching back. The pruned material can of course find its way to the chopping board!

As mentioned, many herbs contain properties that repel pests and disease and thereby actually help protect other plants from attack. In the spring for instance, Artemisia tends to attract aphids to its buds. The aphids are easily dealt with by lightly pruning the Artemisia, while many neighbouring plants are spared the attention of these particular pests. Species of Achillea repulse many fungi, while Lavender can keep moths and aphids at bay.

If all this wasn't enough, most herbs can be grown on a fairly modest watering regime. Although requiring regular moisture through the hot dry months, they can be grown with about half the amount of water needed for flowers. As a youngster I was often told that "you cannot have your cake and eat it". As, a gardener, I've learned that you can grow a certain group of plants that provide excellent raw material for cooking, if used thoughtfully can really enhance the beauty of the garden, help to keep down pests and diseases, and consume much less water than the usual bedding plants.

About the Author

My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com