Window Box Herb Garden

The weather has been absolutely gorgeous in England.  A few days ago, I actually uttered the words "Oh my God, it's hot out!" for the first time since moving here 7 years ago.  But I'm not complaining about the heat - I'll take it over rain any day.  I've worn summer pyjamas usually reserved for holidays abroad and I'm digging the criss cross tan lines I have going on on my feet from my sandals.  People here are going nuts for the weather - according to a report on Yahoo, there has been a "sausage surge" and paddling pool sales are up 816%.  I have indulged in a few sausages on a bun with a whole lot of mustard and even eyed up a pool which seemed to fit 2 adults and 2 children comfortably.  They looked like they were having a darn good time in the picture on the front of the box but I passed - I had visions of spending most of my time searching for holes to cover with duct tape (as I did in my youth) instead of floating around on my lilo.

A few weeks ago we spent some time sprucing up the back garden.  A new fence, some hanging baskets, a few potted plants and changing out the bark mulch for plum slate really made a difference.  One thing that does double duty, as in nice on the eyes and the tummy, is my window box herb garden.  I used two metal window boxes that affix to the wall and planted 4 different herbs that I purchased from the supermarket.  I went with living herbs from Morrison's for £1.00 each because I don't have a very green thumb or very much patience.  Just plant them in compost, water and they're ready to go.

I planted basil, chives, mint, and parsley.  The herbs last all summer and are used frequently in the dishes I cook.  And it looks darn purty when I look out my kitchen window.  Now I just have to remember to water them - something not generally required in rainy England!