MODify: From Mid Century Modern Basket to Herb Planter + Herb Growing Tips

"Go outside and pick me some basil for dinner," mom would often say throughout childhood. I have fond memories of shrimp scampi with freshly chopped flat leaf parsley or caprese salad with basil! Delicious dishes are heightened to Godly status with the addition of fresh herbs. There's absolutely no reason to buy them from the store when you can buy starter herbs for the same price and grow them prolifically. There are some rules to heed, but I know you can do it!

(1) Line your planter with garbage bags. I used plastic bags I save from thrifting...they're free!

(2) Add a layer of packing peanuts. This "reservoir" will keep your herbs from getting waterlogged.

(3) Add your potting soil mix. Soil from outside won't do; it will get impacted, damaging the herb's’ roots.

(4) Now, add your plants! The soil shouldn't cover the stem unless you're working with basil or tomatoes; in that case, dig deep. This will encourage strong root growth because these plants will sprout roots from the stem.

I filled mine with catnip (good for people-tea and cat-teasing), chives and culantro (like cilantro but it won't bolt in the summer heat if I move it outside). I'm excited to make tea and herbalize my meals. I'm in full-on gardening mode again, so be on the lookout for gardening posts.

Pro Tip: I know my arrangement isn't photogenic but it's important not to overload your planter. Leave room for your plants to grow.

What's your favorite herb to use in cooking? Any tips or planting ideas to share? My Mexican culinary background and childhood in Italy make basil, flat leaf parsley and cilantro my hands-down favorites.

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