Herb garden

A continuation of last year's transplant of some herbs from seedlings, to pots, to the north side of our flower bed. I've been closely monitoring these herbs to watch their regrowth and their current season growth. Logged (and edited over time) here to note the progression. (Note: the 3ft basil from last year died out over the winter, and given its ability to take over combined with our lack of interest in using it much, I opted to not replace it.)

April 10th 2013 - the first few signs of returning life after a mild winter

LtoR: lemonbalm, rosemary, spearmint, white sage

May 1st 2013 - fully engaged growth season with regular watering 

LtoR: lemonbalm, rosemary, white sage, spearmint 

(and monkey grass at the stone border in front)

This area gets about 30% sun on any given day, particularly in the middle afternoon. It is surrounded by shrubbery established prior to our purchasing the property but this area itself was barren. I installed a Mister Landscaper (black pvc and green hoses) above ground sprinkler system last year to keep everything alive in these hot TN summers and move it around as needed.
Overall, the herbs seem pretty happy here, despite the largely red clay soil underneath a heavy layer of black mulch. I will continue to try to stake them and keep them contained as I am very aware of how easily rosemary, sage, and mint will take over any area if left on their own. ;)