Herbs are the heart of any kitchen garden, whether a few plants in pots or a full herb garden. Herbs (herbaceous plants) are any plants used for food, flavouring, medicine, or perfume. In the middle ages the apothecary garden provided for the general health needs of the population. Today the main function is to provide a range of flavourings for the kitchen and compliment the other crops from the garden.
Herbs also provide an element of pest control for the garden as a number of them repel problem insects while others attract beneficial ones. Having herbs around sitting areas can help deter mosquitos and flies.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
One of the most common and popular kitchen herbs, basil is believed to originate from India and the far east. The type used in Italian food is typically called sweet basil. The type genovese is considered the best for culinary use. There are over 160 named cultivars available. The most commonly used Mediterranean basil cultivars are Genovese, Purple Ruffles, Mammoth, Cinnamon, Lemon, Globe and African Blue. Lettuce and Purple basil are popular for kitchen use.