Tips for Herb Gardening Success in Bergen County, NJ

Summer beckons with its promise of backyard barbecues and picnics…and the secret ingredient to elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary? Luscious, fragrant herbs straight from your own garden! New Jersey’s climate provides a perfect environment for a diverse range of herbs. Rohsler’s boasts an extensive collection of herb plants, from classic favorites like basil, French tarragon, rosemary, chives, sage, thyme, mints, cilantro and parsley to more adventurous options like sorrel, lemongrass, lemon balm, sweet marjoram, and stevia. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a hungry beginner, here are some tips to ensure your herb garden thrives in Bergen County.

Choose the Right Herb Plant Products for Your Location

Rohsler’s offers a wide selection of herbs grown at our nursery and from other reputable growers, ensuring a strong start for your herb garden. Currently, we are growing two varieties of lush 1 gallon Rosemary, Arp and Barbeque. We also offer herb plants that are certified organic from Peace Tree Farm. We received a fresh shipment of organic herbs delivered to our nursery today. Many herbs, including sage, thyme, basil, oregano, and rosemary, require at least 6-8 hours of full sun daily. If your gardening space receives limited sun, opt for semi shade-tolerant herbs like those in the mint family, such as spearmint, chocolate mint, or peppermint as well as parsley and chives. Growing herbs in full sun will yield the best results.

Select the Right Potting Mix

Use potting soil that is well-drained, such as Bumper Crop Gardener’s Gold Organic Potting Soil by Master Nursery®, which is made with all natural ingredients including sphagnum peat moss and aged bark. Avoid using garden soil, which can be too dense and retain too much moisture.

Feed for Flavor

If you feel that your plants need a boost, adding an organic fertilizer can enhance their growth. For example, Espoma’s Plant-Tone is all-purpose plant food that is blended for organic gardening. You might also try Neptune’s Harvest fish emulsion, which is an organic fertilizer that provides nutrients for plants and improves soil health.

Plan for the Season

Some herbs, like basil and dill, thrive in warm weather. Cool-season herbs, like thyme, oregano, and mint can tolerate cooler temperatures and can thus be planted in early spring.

Water Wisely

Most herbs prefer moist but not soggy soil. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering.

Animal Visitors

Unfortunately, several critters—rabbits, groundhogs, and deer included—love herbs as much as we do! Some herbs like rosemary, sage, and oregano are more resistant to animal browsing due to their unappealing taste and/or smell. Alternatively, you can plant deterrents to protect your herbs by surrounding them with plants such as Marigolds.

Shape and Harvest

Frequently harvesting herbs encourages bushier lateral growth. Removing flowers by pinching or trimming is recommended on many herbs such as basil, marjoram and mints which will help maintain their vegetative growth and prolong harvesting. For tender herbs like basil that can’t handle cold winters, you can harvest them heavily before frost or bring them indoors to grow in a sunny location.

Bonus Tip: For a continuous harvest, consider planting some herbs indoors throughout the winter. This allows you to enjoy fresh herbs year-round, regardless of the weather. A sunny window and/or grow lamp will result in much better growth.

Why Rohsler’s is the Best Place to Buy Herb Plants Near You

Rohsler’s goes beyond just the plants! We offer an extensive selection of culinary and ornamental herbs, including numerous types of mint, sage, thyme, basil, and other uncommon varieties. We also provide herb-specific growing supplies, from organic fertilizers and potting mixes to spacious pots and containers. Find everything you need to create a beautiful and functional herb garden indoors or outdoors. Our knowledgeable staff will answer your questions and offer planting tips, setting you up for a bountiful harvest of flavorful herbs. Visit Rohsler’s Allendale Nursery today and see for yourself why we’re the best place to buy herb plants near you.