Growing Fresh Herbs in Pots On The Deck- Easy and Tasty

I enjoy growing fresh herbs in pots on my deck in the summer. It's so easy and fun and you get the benefit of fresh tasty seasonings all summer. I start with small little plants that I get from a nearby organic farmer. I plant them in pots and they start to grow rather quickly. I usually water them daily as anything growing in pots dries out rather quickly.

I use the herbs in salads, soups, tea, and other cooking all summer. At the end of the summer, when the herbs are in full bloom,  I cut them down and dry them for use all winter.

How to Plant Herbs in Pots on Your Deck

There’s something satisfying about stepping out onto the deck and snipping fresh herbs for dinner or iced tea. This week I picked up  organic herb plants — lemon thyme, basil, lemon verbena, rosemary, oregano, mojito mint, and sweet marjoram — I planted in containers on my deck.

Even if you’ve never grown herbs before, planting herb plants in pots is surprisingly easy. Most herbs thrive in containers, smell amazing, and provide a little outdoor kitchen garden.

Lemon Verbena - wonderful to make into tea

Here’s exactly how I planted mine.

The Herbs I Bought So Far

• Lemon Thyme
• Rosemary
• Oregano
• Mojito Mint
• Sweet Marjoram
• Basil
• Lemon verbena

 Most of them love sunny, warm conditions.

Sweet Marjoram - not sure what I'll use this for

Choosing the Right Pots

One of the biggest mistakes people make is using pots that are too small. Herbs may start tiny, but they grow quickly once summer arrives and have deep roots.

Rosemary

Rosemary can get big and bushy, so I plant it in its own pot.

• Pot size: 12–16 inches wide
• Depth: At least 12 inches deep

Mojito Mint

Mint spreads aggressively and likes more moisture than the other herbs, so it absolutely needs its own container.

• Pot size: About 12 inches wide
• Depth: 10–12 inches

Lemon Thyme, Oregano, and Sweet Marjoram

These herbs all enjoy similar growing conditions, so they can share one larger planter.

• Pot size: 16–18 inches wide
• Depth: 10–12 inches

The Best Soil for Potted Herbs

I use a lightweight potting mix rather than garden soil. Herbs hate soggy roots, so drainage is very important.

A few tips:

• Always use containers with drainage holes
• Don’t pack the soil tightly
• Add a little compost if you want, but herbs generally don’t need heavy feeding

How to Plant the Herbs

Planting them is very simple.

1. Fill the containers about two-thirds full with potting mix
2. Remove each herb gently from its nursery container
3. Loosen the roots slightly if they are tightly packed
4. Place the herb into the container at the same depth it was originally growing
5. Fill in around the roots with soil
6. Water thoroughly

That’s it.

Sunlight and Watering

Most herbs love sunshine. My deck gets plenty of sun, which these plants appreciate.

Egglpant, tomato, potato ,and zucchini Tien (link to recipe)
 topped with fresh herbs from my herb garden (before cooking)

Herbs That Prefer Drier Soil

• Rosemary
• Lemon thyme
• Oregano
• Sweet marjoram

I let the top inch of soil dry slightly before watering again.

Herb That Likes More Moisture

• Mojito mint
• Basil

Mint prefers evenly moist soil and may need watering more often during hot weather.

Not Done Yet- I still want to get some more basil and stevia plants

I still may go back and pick up some basil. For some reason, I never have any luck growing basil despite everyone I know says it grows like a weed. I'm also hoping I can find some organic stevia plants somewhere. 

Last year I dried my stevia and mint and then processed the dried herbs together in the food processor. OMG- I added it to tea- loved it.  

In the past, I used to grow sage, but I never used it. So I did not buy any this year. 

Roasted Summer Zucchini Basil Soup  (link to recipe)

Easy Vegetable Pasta Dinner with Broccoli and Mushrooms.

 Looking for an easy summer dinner that is simple to prepare and assemble? Think pasta, mushrooms, and broccoli.

It has been quite a while since I last made pasta, but for some reason, I was now really craving it. I don't make it often because I try to keep the carbs in check, so I came up with a compromise—why not mix it up with lots of vegetables?

IN MY KITCHEN- JUNE 2026

What's in My Kitchen This June ? Ants!

ai drawing from chat

We returned to our Pennsylvania home about two weeks ago, and before we had even unpacked a single box, I spotted a few ants on the windowsill and kitchen counter. I was surprised because there wasn't any food in the house.

Within a few days, those few scouts turned into an invasion. Suddenly, there were armies of ants marching across my countertops and parading along the windowsills.

Bok Choy and Green Pea Soup - Quick, Easy, and Delicioius.

The weather is starting to warm up a little, but I'm still making soup. The last few weeks I had made vegetarian black bean soup and vegetarian lentil soup but now I wanted something lighter. I made a delicious bok choy and frozen green peas soup that hit the spot.

Doggy In The Window- Popular song from the 1950's

I was walking around South Philadelphia the other day. It is an old established city neighborhood made up of mostly congested row houses. 

One house had beautiful window flowers and a dog looking out the window. It reminded me of the old song from the 1950's, "How Much Is That Doggy In The Window".  Do you know it? 

Some Trivia About The Song: 

Purple Sweet Potato Magic - Foods That Help Protect Against Disease

I'm eating Purple Sweet Potatoes. Why are purple foods so magical for statistically helping to reduce the risk of disease.?  

A few days ago, I listened to a podcast episode of Mel Robbins featuring Dr. Dawn Mussallem — and I honestly haven’t stopped thinking about it since. If you like podcasts, Mel Robbins has incredible podcasts and I learn so much.

Frozen Limonana -a Deliciously Icy Cold Summer Drink

Make Way For Icy Cold Frozen Limonana!!!

All you need is a medium sized bunch of fresh mint, some lemons or limes, sweetener, and ice and you are all set to enjoy your ice cold juicy limonana which is fabulous on a hot summer day. 

Back in the Saddle Again- Going back to Philly Area

Do you remember the old 1939 Gene Aurtry song, Back In The Saddle Again?  We have officially left Florida and are presently on the road heading back to our home in Philly area for the summer and early fall months! After 14 years of snowbird life, we’re changing up the way we do this long drive home this season.

19 Hour Trip 

Beanie Bagels- High Fiber Easy To Make Flourless Bagels

 

Beanie Bagels: A Flourless Easy To Make Bagel Packed With Fiber

What in the world is a Beanie Bagel? These unique high fiber bagels are made with dry beans instead of flour, creating a hearty, filling, and surprisingly tasty alternative to traditional bagels and they are really easy to make too.

Zucchinni Noodle Pasta Bowl- A Tasty-High Protein Plant- Based Meal

Calling all pasta lovers who watch their carbs and calories and want high protein and high fiber meals. Try something new!!!! Fresh zucchini made into noodles!!! Use it in your favorite pasta dishes. Cooks up in a skillet in minutes.

It's transition Time : Goodbye to Snowbird Season- Almost

As the  Florida season comes to a close for us snowbirds, there’s a familiar rhythm for me setting in. After seven wonderful playful months, it’s transition time—time for organizing, cleaning out, and getting ready to close up our condo before we head back to the Philadelphia area for the summer.

Strolling Through Coral Gables- A Charming South Florida Escape

Last week we went to Coral Gables in Miami. Coral Gables is 45 minutes South of where we live in North Miami, if there is no traffic. With traffic (which there usually is) it can take more like 1 hour and 15 minutes. Consequently, we don't go very often. 

Scrambled Tofu (Better Than Scrambled Eggs?)

You say scrambled eggs, I say scrambled tofu! 

The resemblance is almost uncanny—both in taste and texture—making this plant-based version a satisfying swap for a classic breakfast favorite.

Norwegian Aqua Review: Spa, Food, Balcony Room

Norwegian Aqua Cruise Review: Spa Experience, Dining, and Balcony Stateroom

I’m back from a relaxing 5-day Bahamas cruise on the Norwegian Aqua—but honestly, we barely left the ship. This trip was all about unwinding in the spa. It was our first time sailing on the Norwegian Aqua, and I had promised I’d share a full review.

5 Day Spa Cruise

We’re heading off on a five-day spa cruise to the Bahamas—leaving Sunday and back by Thursday—and I'm excited.

Mega Ship

A Vegan Chickpea and Cauliflower-Rice Bowl that I Make Again and Again

If you’re looking for an easy, healthy vegan meal that comes together in minutes, this simple chickpea and cauliflower bowl may become one of your new favorites. Made with protein-rich chickpeas, cauliflower rice, fresh arugula, and a few simple seasonings, it’s a light yet satisfying plant-based meal I make again and again. Of course, it's naturally gluten-free as well.

People often ask me what I actually eat as a vegan, and I always laugh a little because I think many expect the answer to be something complicated, wierd, or unusual. The truth is, a lot of what I eat is incredibly simple—basic, wholesome foods put together in ways that are nourishing, satisfying, and delicious.

Stuffed Artichoke Bottoms- With Falafel and Creamy Tahini Sauce

Have you ever tasted falafel?  It looks like a meatball, but is plant-based and made with chickpeas.

These falafel-stuffed artichoke bottoms with a creamy tahini dressing were the star appetizer of my last dinner party. 

The Tradition Behind Decorating Easter Eggs

When did the tradition of dying and decorating Easter eggs begin? 

Lent
The tradition behind decorating eggs for Easter actually started in a practical way. During Lent, many people gave up rich foods such as eggs. However, they didn’t want the eggs they had to go to waste—so they would boil and preserve the eggs instead. By the time Easter arrived and the fasting period ended, there were plenty of eggs ready to be eaten. People began decorating them to make the celebration feel a little more special and festive.

IN My Kitchen April 2026

It's the beginning of a new month, and I'm joining Sherry at Sherry's Pickings for her monthly blog share of IN MY KITCHEN where anyone can join in the fun and share what's doing in their kitchen. 

I have 2 new decorative plates for display in my kitchen and probably use them for serving at parties.  

Happy Passover 2026

Wishing my readers who celebrate Passover a joyous holiday filled with the love of family and friends. 

Greek White Bean Dip (Creamy Garlicky and Better Than Hummus)

Do you like dips? You will love the simplicity of this Greek recipe,

We had lunch the other day at a local Greek restaurant, and I fell in love with the creamy dip that the server placed on the table that she  referred to as hummus.

Dolce & Gabbana in Miami - Spectacular Exhibit

Hold on to your seat—because I’m buzzing with excitement. I just experienced the Dolce & Gabbana: From Heart to Hands exhibit in Downtown Miami, and it was nothing short of spectacular. 

This wasn’t simply a fashion display. Yes, there were breathtaking garments, shoes, and handbags of wearable art—but each of the many rooms on multiple floors unfolded like a fully immersive world of its own to match the artistic creations. 

Should Holiday Food Be Healthy? Rate Your Meal

A Fresh Take on Easter and Passover Meals

I'm already thinking about the upcoming holidays (Easter and Passover). I'm thinking about the indulgences and wondering why holiday food can't just be healthy food? Should it? 

 

Manatee Sightings

I am extremely excited to share with you some manatee photos seen from our friend's condo balcony on the 10th floor over the intracoastal.  The photos were taken with a cell phone. It appears to be an adult with a baby. 

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Spring Mushroom Soup (Instant Pot or Stovetop Recipe)

What's in my soup pot right now? 

With the first signs of spring beginning to appear, my trusty soup pot naturally starts to feel a little lighter, and I start to think about making my light spring mushroom soup.  

Pink Martini Steals The Show

Are you familiar with the musical group called, Pink Martini? Do you like International music? 

Chocolate Chia/Flax Pudding- A Heart Healthy Dessert

Do you love a rich chocolatey pudding? 

What if I told you this pudding recipe is not only rich, creamy and indulgent, but actually nourishing too? 

In MY Kitchen March 2026

Yay! It's March first and I invite you to take a peek into what's been happening in my kitchen this past month. I'm sharing on Sherri's monthly In My Kitchen Share. 

Last Friday night I hosted a Shabbat (Sabbath) dinner.  I invited four couples to share the evening dinner with us. 

A Manatee Outside My Condo Building

Guess What I saw in the water outside my condo last week !!

He is hiding in the foliage and eating away happily. 

He is swimming away after being satisfied with his meal. 

I was beyond excited seeing a manatee swimming around and eating the foliage in the intracoastal waters outside of my condo building. I think he was a baby. 

Instant Pot Carrot Apple Ginger Soup (6 Ingredients & Easy)

When the temperatures drop and everyone starts talking about snowstorms, all I want is a warm, cozy bowl of soup. Even though there’s no snow here in sunny Florida, my family in Pennsylvania and New York has been sending blizzard photos — and let’s just say, it’s serious soup weather up there!

Transform Pretty Decorative Napkins Into Beautiful Mod Podge Plates

Have you ever Mod Podged? I'm not a crafter but I made this little soap dish plate for my bathroom using a very simple craft technique . I just wanted to share it.

Ditch Your Teabags -They May Contain Plastics That Leach Into Your Tea

Are you a tea drinker?  Then you need to read this. 

Alert: Did you know that many popular tea brands of regular, green tea, or herbal teas, use tea bags that contain micro plastics that can leach into your cup of tea when steeped in hot water? I had no idea and it could be serious.

Scary, right?

Valentine Balloons Along The Waterfront Marina For Passing Boaters

Happy Valentines Day!

Yesterday on my routine morning walk, I strolled along the marina side of Haulover Park (in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida) and saw the sweetest surprise that was displayed for all the boaters. — 

A whole section decorated for Valentine’s Day with balloon pop-ups for the boaters to see as they passed by on their boats!

Instant Pot Black Bean Soup: My Shortcut Recipe Everyone Loves

Easy Instant Pot Black Bean Soup (Perfect for game night)

Looking for a soup recipe that you can throw together quickly for a last minute weeknight meal or get together?

I love a good bowl of hearty black bean soup, especially when it’s quick, comforting, and easy to make at home. The other night, I had friends over for a fun evening of playing Rummikub, and I thought—why not turn it into a soup and salad dinner before the game.

Yellow Squash Soup Recipe (High Fiber & Delicious)

What To Do With Yellow Squash?

I made this delicious yellow squash soup!

In My Kitchen Feb 2026

It's time for February issue of In My Kitchen. I'm joining Sherry of Sherry's Pickings where anyone can join in and share what's happening in their kitchen.  

31 Degree Cold Spell in Miami- Rediculous

This has to be one of the coldest Januaries I can remember in South Florida. It's been in the 50's and 60's most of the month but this coming Sunday morning, temperatures are expected to dip down to 31 degrees—yes, 31! The photo above  is of my friend feeding the sea gulls on our morning walk about 7:30 AM when the temperatures were around 50 degrees.

Comfort Food: Bean and Lentil Recipes for Snowy Days

It's been cold ( but not snowy here) and I'm Looking back through my blog at some of my older bean and lentil recipes. It feels a little like I am flipping through an old photo album. I’ve been blogging for 16 years now and during that time my recipes have naturally evolved right along with the way I eat and cook.

Book Review-Into The Magic Shop

                                              

I highly recommend the book Into the Magic Shop by James R. Doty.

It’s one of those rare books that reads like a simple, engaging story while quietly teaching about our brain and thoughts along the way. I never felt like I was being “instructed,” yet as the story unfolded, the lessons naturally sank in.

Years ago, I read Jonathan Livingston Seagull, a book with a powerful spiritual message, and later The Greatest Salesman in the World, which did the same. Into the Magic Shop belongs in that category for me. It’s an easy, approachable read based on the author's memoirs with a straightforward story that I found carried deep and meaningful insights.

What makes this book even more compelling is the author himself. James R. Doty, MD, was a renowned neurosurgeon and former professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. His background in science and medicine gave the book an added level of credibility for me, while his personal life story was interesting and touching.

The subtle information that he shares doesn't feel theoretical—It's grounded in his own experiences and his deep medical training and  understanding of the human brain.

The book offers practical tools for calming the mind, opening the heart, and cultivating compassion and resilience. 

As I read this memoir, I found myself naturally reflecting on my own patterns of thinking and behavior, noticing how small shifts in awareness and intention actually can make a difference in our experiences.

This is the kind of book you finish feeling inspired, reflective, and quietly changed—with insights that stay with you long after you turn the last page.

I've been under a lot of stress lately- this book was just what I needed.

Zesty Lime Marinade Over Black Beans and Rice- Ready in 30 Minutes

This is my new go-to black beans and rice dinner for those busy  nights when I'm tired and want something healthy and satisfying that comes together in 30 minutes. Do you know what I mean? 

Grated Radish and Apple Salad (Easy & Refreshing)

It’s amazing how endlessly creative salad making can be. This grated radish and grated apple salad became a new favorite of mine after I bought a bunch of red radishes and quickly realized I had no plan or idea what to do with them.