01/04/2026
Woodhull Herbary Gardens are located in Zone 3 ~ Our Growing Season is Short & Sweet but we have found that the Herbs Listed Below are Great, Hardy, Easy to Use & Grow and You can Utilize them in Many, Many Recipes :)
Growing & Ingesting Different Flavors of Herbs is Fun!
Give it a Try with a Delicious Warm Soup for this Blustery Cold Day ~
The best herbs for soup include versatile staples like thyme, parsley, oregano, and bay leaves, which add depth and freshness, while rosemary, sage, basil, and dill offer distinct flavors for specific cuisines (Italian, Mediterranean, seafood). Add robust herbs early for infusion, and fresh, delicate herbs like dill, chives, or parsley at the end for brightness and garnish, remembering to remove bay leaves before serving.
Classic Soup Herbs (Good for almost anything)
Thyme: Earthy, warm, and subtly fragrant; a staple in most soups.
Parsley: Adds freshness and a mild, peppery finish; great as a garnish.
Bay Leaf: Provides subtle depth and supports other flavors; remove before serving.
Oregano: Earthy and slightly bitter; essential for Italian and tomato-based soups.
For Hearty & Savory Soups
Rosemary: Strong, pine-like flavor; excellent with chicken, root vegetables, and winter soups.
Sage: Aromatic and slightly peppery; pairs well with poultry, pork, and squash.
Marjoram: Similar to oregano but milder and sweeter.
Lovage: Adds a deep, savory, celery-like flavor.
For Bright & Fresh Finish (Add at end)
Dill: Bright and fresh; fantastic in fish, potato, or creamy soups.
Chives: Mild oniony flavor, perfect sprinkled on top.
Cilantro: Essential for Mexican, Southwestern, or Asian-inspired soups.
Basil: Sweet and peppery; great in tomato, vegetable, or pesto soups.
Tips for Using Herbs
Start Early: Add woody herbs (thyme, rosemary, bay) during simmering to infuse flavor.
Finish Fresh: Stir in delicate herbs (parsley, dill, chives) at the very end or use as garnish.
Cozy Split Pea Soup with Thyme & Dill
• 2 Carrots, medium
• 1/4 Celery root, medium
• 2 Celery stalks, medium
• 4 tbsp Dill, fresh
• 8 oz Mushrooms
• 2 cups Split peas, dried green
• 1 sprig Thyme, fresh
• 4 Yellow onion, medium
• 6 cups Vegetable broth
• 1 Salt and black pepper
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
