Cultivating

Mint is a great herb for an indoor container because it can still thrive in less sunlight. Mint spreads rapidly, and its roots have a tendency to choke out the roots of other plants. As a result, it is ideal to plant mint in a container without other plants. For best results, plant in a container minimum 12 in. They prefer deeper soil so a pot is best, but a rectangular container will work as well. Pinch off the flowers as this will increase the flavor in their leaves.

Harvesting

Cut leaves as needed. It pays to cut the top leaves first, to encourage the plant to shoot out again further down the stem.

Cooking

Mint is a refreshing, versatile herb that can be added to both sweet and savory dishes. Here are some ideas for inspiration:

• Make a mint pesto to top chicken.
• Prepare a marinade or yogurt dip for lamb.
• Add to a fruit salad, or to a walnut and goat cheese salad.
• Use the mint in iced teas and punches.
• Use the mint in cocktails, such as the mojito or the mint julep.

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Cultivating

Basil is a sun-loving herb and will thrive much better in a larger container, at least 10″. It’s better to put several plants into the largest container you can manage than to plant in smaller containers.

The key to a productive basil plant is pruning. If you don’t prune it, it will grow tall and spindly and have minimal production. It’s also important to pinch back flowers as soon as you notice them. This keeps the flavor in the leaves from becoming bitter.

The pruning process starts when a basil plant is about six inches tall. To prune, cut off the tip of each shoot with its accompanying leaves. This will make the plant branch out. Let the new shoots grow six inches and then pinch them back too. Keep doing this until you have a full bushy basil plant.

Harvesting

The process of pruning accomplishes the simultaneous process of harvesting. When you cut off the top shoot, with that you’ll be cutting off usable leaves. You can use them fresh or freeze them.

Cooking

Basil is a classic ingredient in many Italian dishes.

Here are some ideas for inspiration:

• Combine with garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil to make a pesto for any pasta or meat dish.
• Season cherry tomato and mozzarella ball skewers, or top grilled bread with fresh tomatoes to make a bruschetta.
• Pair with your favorite bean, corn, and onion, for a refreshing summer salad.
• Combine with zucchini, squash, beans, and mushrooms for the perfect vegetarian stew.
• Use the basil to add a twist to the classic Bellini.

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