Plant A Cocktail Herb Garden

Herbs add depth of flavor and a touch of sophistication to a cocktail. What is a mojito without mint? Ever tried a bloody Mary with cilantro? And once your martini glass has been garnished with a single, perfect basil leaf, everything thereafter will feel like a disappointment. Growing your very own cocktail herb garden makes a great starter garden. The only thing better than herb-infused cocktails, are herb-infused cocktails with herbs you grew yourself.

Cocktail gardens require very little space. They are delicious and refreshing and a great plant to start with. Plant a variety of herbs for a variety of cocktails: lavender, rosemary, spearmint, purple basil, English thyme, tarragon, stevia, cilantro, dill and basil.

Herbs make a great addition to the kitchen or dining room! Grow indoors to give your home a lovely fragrance.

If you need a little extra inspiration – check out the sample herb cocktails and video with step-by-step instructions below. Enjoy with or without spirits.

Materials List

1. Container
2. Potting soil
3. Fertilizer
4. Gloves
5. Trowel
6. Plant stakes (labels)
7. Plants

Steps

1. Getting Started: Select a container that has proper drainage and will be located to receive at least four hours of sun per day.
2. Next, select your herbs of choice. We used lavender, rosemary, spearmint, purple basil, English thyme, tarragon, and stevia. Other options include cilantro, dill and basil.
3. Prep Your Soil: Fill your container, about ¾ full with soil and add some organic fertilizer. If you have questions about fertilizer, any nursery or garden center professional can point you in the right direction.
4. Dig In: Place plants in your container and determine how they will be arranged, before you begin planting. Once planted, your plants should still sit below the lip of your container to avoid run off while watering.
5. Apply Labels: You will want to be sure to label each variety of plant to help avoid confusion in the heat of the cocktail-making moment.
6. Water Wisely: Water your herbs after planting and twice weekly after that. Put your finger in the soil, if it is moil check again in 2 days. If it is dry add water. If water is draining out of the container, water less to keep nutrients in the soil.
7. Snip & Sip: When you want to use your herbs, just clip the amount you want off the plant.
8. Mix: Rinse herbs and muddle with fresh fruit like cherries, kiwi or pears for a fresh flavor combination.
9. Enjoy: Stir and serve in an herb cocktail or mocktail!