AMERICAN HERB GARDENS

A survey of American herb gardens indicated a broad range of types, sizes, and plant material. Most gardens, both public and private, were concentrated in the Northeast and Midwest. Themes of the gardens varied, but many public gardens had a historical aspect associated with a famous public figure. A large number of the commercial gardens were started in the 1970s, probably as a result of renewed consumer interest in herbs and natural products. In almost all instances, through labeling, brochures, and design the gardens served an educational role, familiarizing visitors with the history, scents, and culinary and medicinal uses of herbs. Commercial herb gardens frequently feature culinary herbs that can be grown locally as an enticement for increased sales. In addition to the herbs, popular features of the gardens included sundials, wattle fences, gazebos, and bee skeps.