It’s thyme to start planting your seeds! Anawalt Lumber’s January planting tips are herbs to add to your garden now and enjoy on your plate in spring.
Basil
Basil thrives in Southern California’s mild climate. It can be planted from seeds or transplants, but January is the perfect time to start growing basil as seedlings since they take longer to establish themselves.
Plant seeds now → Harvest in late winter / early spring
Tips for Basil
- Plant in full sun.
- Plant them 8–10 inches apart in rows or in containers if you have limited space.
- Make sure soil is moist and drains well.
- If possible, plant in a raised garden bed for better drainage.
- Plant near tomatoes, they are great garden neighbors!
- Keep an eye on nighttime temperatures, as basil is sensitive to frost. If the temperature drops, cover your plants with a sheet or blanket to protect them.
Oregano
Plant seeds now → Harvest in late spring / early summer
- Plant in full sun.
- Plant 8–10 inches apart.
- Once seeds take hold, water sparingly and allow the soil to dry between waterings.
- When soil is too moist, oregano loses some of its flavor.
Parsley
Plant seeds now → Harvest in late spring / early summer
- Plant seeds 6–8 inches apart.
- Seeds take at least three weeks to sprout.
- Grows best in morning sun and partial shade.
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
Rosemary
Plant seeds now → Harvest in late spring / early summer
- Plant in full sun.
- Rosemary spreads out about 4 feet.
- Make sure you give it plenty of room to grow.
- Be careful not to overwater. Water when soil feels dry.
- Rosemary doesn’t react well when it gets too much or too little water.
Thyme
Thyme is another Mediterranean herb that does well in Southern California’s mild winter climate. It can be planted from seeds or transplants, but it’s easier to grow thyme from transplants since it takes longer to mature from seeds.
Plant seeds now → Harvest in late spring / early summer
- Grows best in full sun.
- Space seedlings 12 inches apart.
- Plant 1/4 inch deep.
- Space rows 16–24 inches apart.
Tips for Thyme
- Choose a well-drained soil with moderate moisture levels.
- Water deeply once a week to keep the soil evenly moist.
Need more supplies for your garden? Stop by your nearest Anawalt location.
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