Marianne's Response

woltzen’s Question

I started an herbal garden this spring. How do I take care of the herbs over the winter? It is in Puyallup. These are the herbs I have: Rosemary, oregano, sage, thyme, French tarragon, chives, salad burnet, lemon balm, mint, marsh mallow and dandelion. It is a spiral garden. Thanks

Posted by woltzen on October 22, 2016

Marianne's Response

Congratulations on your new herb garden. Most of the herbs you mentioned will overwinter in Western Washington with no special care. The French tarragon may freeze if we have a cold winter and the marsh mallow may also be tender. The other herbs will suffer from poor drainage unless you planted in a raised bed or have rather sandy soil. Beware that all members of the mint family spread quickly so you may want to contain and mints you add. Cut back any too tall or spindly herbs in late spring after all danger of frost is passed such as in May. Hope you enjoy your herbal delights for years to come. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti