I simply adore herbs. They require almost no maintenance, which is definitely a bonus in my book. They look wonderful in any type of garden, either in their own herb garden space, or mixed in with vegetables or even flowers. Plus, you get to use them in cooking! Herbs are packed with antioxidants that help keep our body healthy and strong. Adding fresh-from-the-garden herbs to your cooking not only tastes great, it's good for you too! 

Here are seven herbs to plant - and enjoy - this summer:

1.  Garlic grows tall and willowy, and just about everyone likes the taste. It may not ward off vampires, but some people swear that it can help reduce colds. Eating garlic on a regular basis can also help lower your cholesterol levels and improve your heart health.

2.  I can't wait for August, when fresh tomatoes, fresh basil, and homemade mozzarella from the farmer's market all collide into one of my favorite meals. Basil comes in a wide variety of flavors, so plant 2 or 3 different types to find your favorites.

3.  Chives are so easy to grow, you can even plant them inside in a sunny windowsill. Snip off a few tops to flavor potatoes or fish.

4.  I planted dill a few summers ago, and it keeps coming up, year after year. I love herbs that self-seed, because it cuts down on my work!

5.  Lavender is one of the herbs that likes to masquerade as a flower. You often see it planted in flower garden borders, but don't miss out on the lovely, fresh flavor added to brewed tea!

6.  Rosemary smells so clean and fragrant, I adore adding it to tomato sauce and chicken recipes.

7.   Oregano is a perfect addition to healthy Mediterranean-type foods. In some southern areas it can be grown as a perennial, but here in the frosty Northeast, I need to replant it every Spring.