Herbs are plants that serve a purpose. Whether they're used for food, medicine or as raw materials for fiber and dyes, herb plants have been cultivated since at least 2000 BC.

Herb gardens are as different as the individual. Kitchen gardens include culinary herbs among the vegetables. Physic gardens are grown for medicinal purposes and the study of plants. The potpourri garden though, is perhaps the most enjoyable of all - where just the simple act of watering is an experience in aromatherapy.

Plants to include in a potpourri garden are chamomile, dianthus, scented geraniums, iris germanica (for orris root - a fixative), jasmine, lavender, mint, oranges, and heavily scented roses like Rosa gallica, plus rosemary and lemon verbena.

Plant a potpourri garden all together in a close area in full sun. A circle of plants, for instance, surrounding a large olive jar makes a stunning statement and focal point.

Herb plants live a long time and can grow large - so you'll have few opportunities to get in between them and amend the soil later on. Start fresh with a deep digging of the garden site and use plenty of Kellogg's Nitrohumus - a rich blend of composted organic material that improves drainage and increases fertility.

Harvest potpourri plants as you need them to fill small bowls about the house and scent the guestroom when company is coming. But don't forget to include a small sprig of something wonderfully smelly in letters to friends and family.