With sunnier, warmer days now here in Virginia, I have been focusing heavily on cultivating what I think will be summer to remember in terms of the herbs grown in my kitchen garden. As a novice gardener nestled in Zone 7, I've discovered the joy of cultivating a kitchen garden bursting with an array of aromatic herbs — cooking with herbs is not just a culinary delight but also a therapeutic pastime, offering a sensory experience like no other. What I adore most about herb gardening is the forgiving nature of these plants, making them perfect companions for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. Picture this: on a sweltering summer's day, there's nothing quite like tending to my herb pots with a glass of rosé in hand, surrounded by the intoxicating scents of basil, lavender, mint, and more.