Many people think of  fresh herbs as mysterious seasonings best left to advanced or "gourmet" cooks. The truth is that flavorful herbs are a must for beginners. Once you start to use herbs, it's amazing how fast your kitchen skills and reputation will grow. With just a pinch of  thyme or a snip of  chives plucked from a pot on your windowsill, you can turn simple foods into memorable, aromatic meals.

Cooks are growing herbs everywhere: in front yards, in raised-bed kitchen gardens, even in containers on balconies, decks, and rooftops. Why? Once you've tasted fresh, homegrown herbs, nothing else measures up.

In these articles, you'll discover which herbs are indispensable and how to grow and use them..

Growing Tips:

Sun: For the best flavor and the most growth, herbs need six hours of full midday sun; four hours is minimum for adequate growth.

Soil: All of the herbs mentioned here grow best in slightly acidic soil (pH 6.3 to 6.8), but they'll also tolerate soil that's slightly alkaline. When growing them in the ground, provide loose, well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting. In containers, plant in a high-quality potting mix.

Water: Water perennial herbs to get them established, then taper off to occasional supplemental irrigations. Annual herbs such as basil prefer evenly moist soil.

Air circulation: To help prevent disease, allow enough space between plants for good air circulation.

Fertilizer: For perennial herbs, mix an organic fertilizer into the soil in early spring. For annual herbs, follow the guidelines above but also fertilize with fish emulsion every time you cut the plants back.

Bugs: Keep your garden organic: Grind up garlic cloves and mix with water (about one clove to a cup of water); strain and spray on plants.

The best place to grow herbs is near the kitchen, so you can easily duck outside to harvest them. If you don't have a convenient sunny spot in your garden, you can grow herbs in large containers and position them where the light is favorable.

Whether in a raised garden bed or in a container, fresh herbs are easy to grow and once harvested they will add a touch of gourmet to all your meals.