The History Of Herb Gardens

The Historical Herb Gardens

One of the first ever talked about herb gardens was that of the reign of Charlemagne which started in 742AD. Many herbs that were used for healing purposes then, are still around now. The tenants of Charlemagne were encouraged to plant herbs like the Chervil, Savory, Dill, Fennel, Rosemary, Mint and many more herbs along these lines , onto his private estate. These herbs on Charlemagne's estate, were not only used to make the gardens look more attractive as they were also used for medicinal purposes. I'm sure some of these herbs would of been used to help with renal disease and renal failure. In those days herb gardens were supposed to look attractive.

A few of the ancient herb gardens of this era have still survived. But many basic ideas for herb gardens have been taken from this time and are still in utilization today. A traditional herb garden will be a wonderful addition to any normal garden.

How Do I Create A Traditional Herb Garden?

There are a few aspects of ancient times that you can incorporate into your herb garden to make it look more traditional, therefore a true traditional herb garden will be created!

  • Walls or hedges with Yew or Privet act as a good windbreak. These herbs also separate different parts of your garden and the hedges will give structure and character to your herb garden.

  • In the middle of your herb garden you could out a structure in, something along the lines of a bird bath, fountain, sundial or even a Rose bush.

  • From the centre of the herb garden the herb gardener could also set out paths which take you all around the garden.

  • Dividing each flowerbed into more than 1 is very practical. Different shaped flowerbeds may also be created.

  • Finally it is always a good idea to have a bench or swing chair in somewhere in your herb garden, this invites the person who is observing your garden, to just take a break.

The Medieval traditions of growing herbs in their gardens for healing and cooking has become fashionable again. Yes you heard it right here... Herb gardens are very fashionable.