Growing the Ultimate Cocktail Garden

This post was written in collaboration with WhitePress

If you’re tired of running to the store every time you want to whip up a delicious cocktail, why not start your own cocktail garden? It’s not just practical; it’s also super fun and will impress your friends at your next backyard shindig. Here’s a lowdown on the best herbs to plant for your favorite drinks:

Mint: The Mojito Marvel

Mint is a must-have for any cocktail enthusiast. It’s the star of the show in classics like the Mojito and Mint Julep.

Plant it in a pot to keep it from taking over your garden; it’s a bit of a wild child.

Mint can also be grown vertically, making the vertical garden indoor by Gardyn your perfect option.

• Tip: Use the youngest leaves for the freshest flavor.

Basil: The Basil Breeze

Basil isn’t just for pasta or pizza; it’s a game-changer in cocktails too. Try it in a Basil Smash or a Strawberry Basil Martini.

Plant it alongside your tomatoes for a convenient pairing.

• Tip: Opt for the sweet varieties for a more mellow taste.

Rosemary: The Herbal Elegance

Rosemary adds an earthy, aromatic twist to cocktails like the Rosemary Gin Fizz or the Rosemary Greyhound.

It’s a hardy herb, so it’s perfect for beginners.

• Tip: Infuse simple syrup with rosemary for an extra kick.

Thyme: The Timeless Classic

Thyme brings a subtle herbaceous flavor to drinks like the Lemon Thyme Paloma or the Cucumber Thyme Martini.

It’s drought-tolerant, making it ideal for forgetful gardeners.

• Tip: Muddle a sprig with sugar for a fragrant rim on your glass.

Lavender: The Relaxing Sipper

Lavender is your go-to for soothing, floral cocktails like Lavender Lemonade or Lavender Mojitos.

Plant it near your patio for its calming aroma.

• Tip: Use lavender sparingly; it can quickly become overpowering.

Cilantro: The Spicy Surprise

Cilantro’s zesty flavor is perfect for drinks like the Spicy Cilantro Margarita or the Pineapple Cilantro Cooler.

Keep it well-watered in hot weather; it can be a bit of a diva.

• Tip: Don’t let it flower; the leaves lose flavor once it bolts.

Remember, herbs thrive when you give them love, sunlight, and good soil. So, grab your gardening gloves, get your hands dirty, and soon you’ll be sipping on cocktails made with the freshest, homegrown ingredients. Cheers to your green-thumb mixology skills.