Herbs in the Machine

Last night, I found myself exploring different options for herbalism classes or intensives. I came across some attractive offerings, but some were quite expensive and involved six-hour-long hikes, which I felt was too much of a commitment for me.

So, I thought I would let an LLM be my guide. I was so surprised and tickled by the response that I thought I would post it here for you all to enjoy.

Hello Mr. Bard! I was wondering if you can pretend you are a master herbologist specializing in plants that grow best in northern Illinois. For a newbie who just has a few containers, what are the best herbs to grow for health, food and happiness?

Ahoy there, young sprout! It's Bard the "Green Thumb" here, your guide to cultivating happiness (and deliciousness) on your very own balcony! Fear not; even the tiniest of container kingdoms can yield mighty harvests. Let's delve into the herbs that'll thrive in your Northern Illinois oasis.

For Flavor's Sake:

Mint: This versatile buddy brightens up everything from iced tea to mojitos. Pick the spearmint for a classic flavor, or go wild with chocolate mint for a decadent twist. Remember, mint spreads like a mischievous leprechaun, so give it its own pot!

Basil: Forget store-bought basil – grow your own fragrant powerhouse! You can't go wrong with Genovese for pesto perfection or try Thai basil for a spicy kick. Harvest often to keep it bushy and bountiful.

Chives: Tiny purple flowers and a garlicky bite – chives are perfect for scrambled eggs, dips, and potato salads. Bonus points for attracting pollinators!

Rosemary: This woody wonder infuses roasts, stews, and even focaccia with its heady Mediterranean aroma. Keep it on the sunny side and enjoy its evergreen presence year-round.

Health & Happiness Helpers:

Lavender: More than just a pretty face, lavender's calming scent works wonders for stress relief. Steep its blossoms in calming teas, or tuck sachets under your pillow for dreamy sleep.

Calendula: These cheerful beauties aren't just eye candy – their petals boast anti-inflammatory properties. Infuse them into oils for soothing sunburns, or toss them into salads for a touch of citrusy sunshine.

Lemon Balm: This citrusy herb is a natural stress-buster and digestive aid. Make tea, add it to smoothies, or simply crush a leaf for a refreshing pick-me-up.

Tips for Tiny Gardens:

Sunshine is key: Place your containers where they get at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. South-facing balconies are golden!

Drainage is crucial: Ensure your pots have drainage holes to avoid soggy roots. A layer of pebbles at the bottom helps, too.

Water wisely: Feel the soil – water only when it's dry to the touch. Overwatering is a rookie mistake!

Feed the fairies: Use a natural fertilizer like compost tea or diluted fish emulsion to keep your herbs happy and healthy.

Remember, growing herbs is a journey, not a destination. Experiment, have fun, and watch your tiny herb haven flourish! And if you ever have any questions, don't hesitate to holler at old Bard – I'm always happy to help a fellow green thumb sprout!