In gardening, as with real estate, the most important thing is location, location, location. Who wants to trek out to the garden or grocery store every time you need a few springs of fresh parsley or tarragon? The Real Simple solution is the backdoor herb garden, planted in window boxes or containers adjacent to the kitchen. Overflowing with edible flowers, such as nasturtiums and French marigolds, these herb gardens are at once convenient, fragrant, and decorative.

The Window Box

Whether you create an Italian kitchen garden filled with basil and oregano, or a petite Provencal yard of lavender and rosemary, keep the following strategies in mind.

Let the width of your window frame dictate the length of the box. If you can't get the exact same size, go for a slightly longer box. Make sure it is at least eight inches deep and eight inches wide to allow for proper root growth.

Place your planter where it will get adequate sunlight. Most herbs and annuals prefer full sun, which means at least six hours a day, but some can thrive on less. Make sure you can reach your box easily for watering, harvesting, and maintenance. If you don't have the right light conditions or can't affix window boxes to your building, use them as planters and keep them on your back stoop, deck, or terrace.

All container gardens must have drainage holes. If yours don't, drill some that are 1/2 to 3/4 inch in diameter. Place a coffee filter over the holes to prevent soil from flowing out with the water.