We designed and planted our new class herb garden on Thursday, April 24th. As a group, we discussed and planned out the necessary steps to take our raw materials and transform them into a working garden. Everyone selected a job and got ready to work. Before beginning our tasks, however, we sampled homemade spearmint tea (made with fresh spearmint leaves and hot water). 

How We Did It
First, we added a layer of rocks to help with drainage. Next, we added soil to fill about 3/4 of the planter* space. Then, we added a bit of fertilizer and worked it into the soil. Our next step was to plant 8 different herbs: Lemon Balm, Sweet Basil, Italian Sage, English Thyme, 'Orange Fizz' Geranium, Barbecue Rosemary, German Chamomile and Chocolate Mint. Close-up photos of the individual herbs can be found below (note that the focus is on the actual plants so the background signs are a bit fuzzy). Finally, we watered the entire garden and added the plant signs.

We also planted some seeds in a a special germination tray. Everyone selected their personal favorites from a collection of herb, vegetable and flower seeds. We plan to watch our seeds sprout and then transfer them to the ground when they are ready.

We will take care of our seeds and plants by assigning watering tasks on a rotating basis. We invite you to stop by and visit our new mini garden!

*Special thanks to Linda Hull (via SunnyvaleFreeCycle.org) for the donated 4x1' and 2x1' redwood planters!