Your family could partake of nature’s own savory flavors for pennies on the dollar just by starting an herb garden. Herbs are the key ingredients to many recipes, and are valued by cooks whether they are making an overpriced entree or using one of their most frugal recipes. For those that want all of the flavor without all of the expense, keep reading!

A number of different fresh herbs can be purchased in the produce section of your local grocery store. Very small portions of 1 or 2 ounces can cost upwards of $4, or more, if they are labeled “organic”. Truth is, you can grow these same herbs right in the privacy of your own home, and at a mere pittance compared to their expensive contemporaries. Here’s how to get an herb garden started:

Purchase cheap packets of seeds. For about 10cents per packet, you can get enough seeds to grow a plenteous herb garden. Since you are able to buy for cheap all the seeds you could possibly need, you can plan your herb garden with a variety of herbs. People that cook with herbs can attest to the wonderful flavor combinations that you can get when you mix a variety of herbs, and the way that they enhance foods.

Put dirt on your shopping list. Clean soil can be as cheap as $1 for a large bag of about 5 pounds. Often, the soil that you buy from the store is very rich and perfect for a beginner to use for starting an herb garden. To get a maximum saving, cost-conscious people could also try looking locally for free dirt! Many times, people have an excess of soil or gardening organizations want to encourage people to pursue gardening, and so they give away their dirt. While the dirt is free, it may be worth considering any costs associated with moving the dirt.

Combine the seeds with the dirt and water. Don’t get caught up in having the best possible pots or using those high end gardening tools when you first get started with your garden. Go for the eco-friendly containers like paper egg cartons or egg shells. You can buy for cheap some really earthy and recyclable pottery from the dollar store also! When you water your upcoming herb garden be gentle and only water as needed, or else you might kill the plants and raise up your water bill unnecessarily. For proper watering, follow the instructions on your seed packets or check online.

In addition to the great savings that you enjoy by having your own herb garden, you will also experience some other health benefits such as getting fresh air more often, exercising as you work those tools, and eating better. All of these could cut down on another expense…doctor’s bills!! A little work, planning some frugal recipes, and making sure to buy for cheap could result in a bumper crop full of delicious herbs for you and your family.