Once these plants have been established, the herbs can go to an outside container or garden spot for an early crop. Once the herbs have reached maturity, don't pull them up. They are hardy throughout the often harsh North Georgia winters. Even if they die back, the plants will send out new growth in the spring.
- Chives: This delicate member of the onion family is hardier than it appears. Chives absolutely love the cold temperatures. These extra-slender green onions also multiple. Be sure and give them plenty of room to spread out. It is easier to grow them in a container, as it may be nearly impossible to distinguish them from new grass.
- Oregano: Once this herb has been established, it may or may not die back during the winter months. Either way, it comes back in early spring. Start seeds indoors and plant outside once plants have two sets of leaves.
- Cilantro: Used to make salsa, this herb grows continuously once it has been established. When seedlings have their true leaves, plant them in full sun. Crop the leaves when needed, allowing the plant to produce new growth.
- Lemon balm: This member of the mint family will die back during early winter, but will add new growth while the temperature is still at or below freezing. If the cold remains well below freezing for several days, new growth will turn black, but it will send up new leaves again on a warmer day.
- Parsley: Start seeds indoors and wait until the plants are about two inches tall before setting outdoors. Parsley will grow year-round in North Georgia.
The thing to remember is this, keep herbs moist year-round. Don't allow them to sit in standing water. Planting herbs and vegetables in nearly 100 percent worm castings will provide every nutrient the plant needs to thrive and worm castings do not usually freeze. This means the plant roots are fairly protected by the soil, preventing the roots from freezing.
Other plants to start indoors include carrots, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, collards and turnips. Plant lettuce in the ground now. Cover at night to prevent freezing.
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