Herb Garden Mission
The herb garden showcases a permaculture design feature known as an herb spiral. The spiral form is an efficient way to use space in that its upward dimensions stack planting space into a smaller area than would be used if plants were arranged in a conventional row pattern at ground level. The spiral pattern coils up 20 to 30 feet of row-type planting into a helical pattern about 5 feet in diameter. Herbs are planted into the space according to their needs, with sun-loving herbs facing the sun, and shade-loving ones planted on the back (north) side. Herbs that prefer moister soil conditions are planted near the bottom of the spiral and those that prefer very well-drained soil and are drought tolerant are planted at the top. By using the 360-degree spiral pattern the spiral not only condenses space but creates microclimates. Harvesting herbs does not require quite as much bending down and, since the plants are all contained within a 5 or 6-foot diameter, it will be easier to weed and water.
The herb garden also features a trellis, which accommodates vining plants like hops or grapes. Other plants in the garden can be used for tea and also to support pollinators, notably beebalm (Monarda fistulosa) and Pineapple sage (Salvia elegans).