Starting Annual Herbs

While most annual herbs can be directly seeded into the garden when warm weather arrives, I like to get a "jump start" on the season and start a few varieties indoors. When I plant my basil, cilantro and dill seedlings outside in mid- to late May, I also plant a few seeds in the row, to assure a fresh crop a bit later in the season. If you use an abundance of these three herbs in your cooking, seed may be planted every 3-4 weeks through mid summer for a continuous supply.

ANNUALS(Must be replanted from year to year; start 4-6 weeks before setting out)

Basil The seeds germinate in about 5 days; don't forget to try some of the scented varieties such as cinnamon, lemon or lime!

Cilantro Germinates in about 10 days; since cilantro bolts and goes to seed quickly, start new plants every 3 weeks for a continuous supply

Dill Germinates in 20 to 25 days; cover the seeds shallowly since dill needs light to germinate

Marjoram Germinates in 8 to 14 days; since light improves germination, gently press the tiny seeds into the soil

Parsley (Parsley is technically a biennial; however, it is grown as an annual.) The seeds germinate in 21 days, but will sprout in about 14 days if they are soaked in water for 48 hours before they are planted. (Change the water twice.)