Just a quick tip... look for a patio with an outside faucet. It will make life sooo much easier! I didn't when we bought our condo, and since I had so many plants on it, we ended up hiring a contractor to tap into the inside water line to bring water to it. Also, if it's a second floor, make sure it has good drainage to the outside... without draining onto your downstairs neighbor's patio (speaking from experience, here...oops).

I grow herbs in containers and also in a regular garden. Started Rosemary from seed about 20 years ago with little trouble. The original plant is alive and happy, and through layering and cuttings, we have seven more Rosemary bushes. I grow Thyme, Oregano, Sage, Chives, and Mint in containers, all started from seed. I bought cuttings of Tarragon at the Farmers Market, and rooted some of it, and it comes back each year. It is Mexican Tarragon and it tastes fine plus has the most beautiful flowers late in the season. I enjoy starting plants from seeds and cuttings, and I'm retired so time is not a problem for me. One of the reasons I keep herbs in containers is the years of drought we have been through. They are easier to care for and easier to get to when I need them for cooking. Over the years, I have tried combining different herbs in large containers. It can work OK for a season, and you can get some pretty combinations, but I have found it works best to have them in their own container. You have to watch Thyme if you place it near another container. I found out it will jump over and root itself in any soil it can touch. I plant multiple containers of basil each year, starting it from seed. It is very easy to grow from seed, but in my opinion should always have its' own container. The root system will completely fill any container in one season.

Oh that is really good- so very true too!!!! I was really hoping for divine intervention for the weed problem, but obviously that is not going to happen. I spent 4 hours today hacking and laying newspaper around my struggling plants and they already look better since they can now see the sun. The grass and weeds got so tall it smothered out the herbs. I laid mulch down (some pecan hulls) and they look good now although I know they would have been big and beautiful by now had I not neglected to weed before now. oh well... it is a great problem having this addiction. But I guess it is a bit healthier than drugs or alcohol. I just need to exercise self control in the purchasing of these plants. Every time I hear of a new herb- yes I go on a search online and to the nurseries. I could really relate to that thread! Thanks! Now I inly have about 50 more hours to go to get the bed in shape the way it should be. (just preparation that is!!!)

I went to the Boston flower show the first time this year, the displays were a sight for sore eyes. There were even two displays with chicken coops complete with chickens. The Philly flower show had metal chickens in the one kitchen garden coop there. With yet another snow storm bearing down on central mass I really enjoyed spending a few hours with blooms Thanks for he beautiful pics!