OK, you look at the herbs at the grocery and they look so tired and limp how can they possibly have any flavour left? *sigh* and you have guests arriving in a few hours and these limp leaves certainly can't even be used as a garnish. 

Now to avoid such emergencies why not grow your own? 

You don't have a yard, not to worry they can be grown on your deck or patio area!  Grab a few pots and plant out seeds, or for instant gratification buy an assortment of herb plants.  These can even be often found at your grocery or for sure at a local nursery for just a few $$$.  In no time at all these tiny plants will grow like crazy-like weeds-ahem actually most herbs are just that weeds and very easy to grow.  Think how smug you will feel as you impress your guests by going out to pick some fresh herbs for the dinner you are preparing just for them.

There is nothing like snipping a few chives to tie those Beggars Purses (whatch for the recipe coming soon) or what about fresh Kaffir Lime Leaves/bai Magroot for that lovely steaming bowl of Tom Yum Goong you wanted to fix for that special someone who loves Thai food.  Oh and those gorgeous heirloom tomatoes that you have sitting on the counter just waiting for some fragrant basil leaves, now you can just dart out and pluck a few perfect leaves for the presentation. 

Now do remember these herbs need the sun for several hours a day, and water them regularily or they also will turn limp like those tired bundles at the market.    If you live in a windy place this also can dry out the pots.  You are thinking I don't want to stay home on the weekends and water those plants that would be like having a needy pet.  Wait a minute there is a solution!  You just place an upside down 2 liter soda bottle in the pot, cut a whole in the bottom, fill with water.  There you go auto watering for your new babies.

Now you're thinking I can do this!  Why don't I add a larger pot and plant a cherry tomato for salads and snacks as well?  Oh well it's too late this year.......wrong answer!  Many herbs grow all year round, and most nurseries still have tomato plants.  A little rosemary, tarragon, oregano, basil, cilantro, oh and maybe little Bay tree or a Kaffir Lime tree, maybe even a Curry Leaf tree (Murraya koenigii) I have room for those.  Remember to bring the Kaffir Lime and Curry Leaf inside if your temps dip below 40 deg F in the winter. 

So what are you waiting for?  You do have a green thumb-it's a lot easier than getting a puppy.

Have fun!