UW Medicinal Herb Garden: A Guide to Getting Started

Getting started with a medicinal herb garden can be a fun and rewarding experience, and it's great that you're considering creating one at the University of Washington. The UW Medicinal Herb Garden is a great resource to learn from.

The garden features a variety of plants, including calendula, chamomile, and lavender, which are known for their calming effects. These plants are perfect for a beginner's garden.

To get started, you'll want to choose a location with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. This will ensure that your plants thrive and are easy to care for.

Start by selecting a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight a day, as most medicinal herbs require adequate sunlight to thrive.

Consider the soil type and pH level, as different herbs have specific requirements; for example, peppermint prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Choose a layout that allows for easy access and maintenance, such as a circular or square design with paths between beds.

Make sure to leave enough space between plants for proper air circulation and growth, typically 12-18 inches apart for most herbs.

Consider the amount of sunlight your garden receives, as most plants require at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Your garden's location will impact the type of plants you can grow. For example, if you live in a region with mild winters, you can grow a variety of plants year-round.

Shade can be beneficial for plants that prefer it, such as ferns and hostas. These plants can thrive in areas with partial shade, receiving 2-4 hours of direct sunlight per day.

The slope and elevation of your garden can also affect drainage and soil quality. A north-facing slope, for instance, tends to be cooler and more humid than a south-facing slope.

A garden located near a body of water can benefit from the natural humidity and temperature regulation. However, be mindful of potential flooding and erosion risks.

Consider the proximity to your house and any nearby structures when planning your garden. A location close to a water source can be convenient but may also increase maintenance needs.

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When selecting medicinal herbs, consider the climate and soil conditions in your garden. Most medicinal herbs prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

Some herbs, like echinacea and calendula, thrive in areas with full sun. Others, like peppermint and chamomile, prefer partial shade.

Be sure to choose herbs that are suitable for your region's hardiness zone. For example, goldenseal is a great choice for USDA zones 4-8.

Herbs like echinacea and sage are relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate some drought. However, most medicinal herbs require regular watering to stay healthy.

Consider the mature size of the herb when selecting medicinal herbs for your garden. For example, comfrey can grow quite large, so it's best to provide it with its own section of the garden.

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The UW Medicinal Herb Garden is a truly magical space. Tucked behind trees along Stevens Way, it's a peaceful escape from the campus bustle.

With over 1,000 plants from around the world, the garden is a treasure trove of healing herbs and plants. It's divided into seven sections, all carefully tended by Keith Possee.

Keith has been with the garden since 1996 and has doubled the plant collection over the last 20 years. He starts work at 7:30 a.m. every weekday, ready to make the garden the best it can be.

Possee creates a magical space by carefully selecting plants that have been validated by western medicine and those used in folk medicine around the world. He looks up current medical research and seeks out plants that have been proven to have healing properties.

The garden is a popular spot for students and visitors to relax and unwind. Possee often hears that it's a peaceful place to sit and have lunch.