We live in the NE in Ohio. So from what I understand, there is a wide range of zoning going on here. We could be anywhere from Zone 5-6b. I think our particular area is 6a. I thought though, since a lot of the towns and cities and such are so close together, I am writing for a wider area.
I do enjoy herbs since they smell so good, are good for you and you can eat them! That is the best part, I think. Do you have any favorite herbs? Hands down mine are cilantro, rosemary, and basil. When I say herbs, I mean cold hardy herbs. Although, cilantro and basil are not cold-hardy here. Sad face.
Grow These 16 Perennial Herbs for Northeastern Ohio
Since there are only two more herbs that can grow in zone 6 than in 5 we will talk about those at the end.
- Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)-These are cold hard and versatile. I even have some growing up from the snow sometimes. Right now in the early spring, I have at least 5 inches already. This is one of my favorites. I use it in place of green spring onions, and in my scrambled eggs. You can use it in salads.
- Mint (Mentha ssp.)-Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) and Spearmint (Mentha spicata) are both cold-hardy as are many in the mint family. I am growing Lemon mint in my grow house and I am hoping to purchase a few more mint varieties to add to my food forest.
- Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Cold-hardy varieties can grow well in zone 5. There are many to choose from, so go crazy!
- Sage ( Salvia Officinalis)-There are many varieties of sage also. If cared for properly, they can be cold-hardy here.
- Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)-This is an herb that I hadn’t heard of before, but when I was ordering seeds, I thought I would try it. I usually add it to my eggs.
- Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)- Both the Russian and the French Tarragon can grow here, but Russian is more cold-hardy. I don’t use this one right now, so I just don’t grow it.
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)- it will be very striking in the garden and the flavor is anise flavored.
- Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)- Sometimes grown as an ornamental but its roots are good for aerating the soil. It also can be used as a mulch for food forests. It has medicinal properties as well.
- Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)- This will attract pollinators with vibrant blooms and medicinal value.
- Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)- This will produce beautiful purple flowers and offer licorice-like flavors for culinary and medicinal purposes.
The way to make herbs give you the best bang for your buck is to have perennials. I always add in some annuals but if I have all of the perennials, then I can save money each year and hopefully not have to buy a replacement.
You might be able to bring some annuals in at the end of the summer/fall and keep them alive in your home. You need a sunny window or use grow lights. Practice frequent pruning, just like you would in outdoor herb gardens. Use well-drained soil. Don’t water more than every two weeks.
The other two herbs that were in Zone 6 were
- Lavender (Lavandula spp.)- use well-drained soil and full sun for this herb. I like to grow it in a pot and bring it inside or pull it close to the house and it will be more sheltered.
- Echinacea (Echinacea spp.)- This herb is also known as coneflower. This will help your immune system.
What do cold-hardy herbs grow in your region? Do you have any favorite ways you use your herbs? You might enjoy my post on how I use up all the mint that grows on my property here. I will post a few more links below about herbs. Comment below if you have any tips or tricks to growing there herbs in your gardens.
Blessings!
Kimberlee
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