In 2017 a Master Gardener Volunteer proposed creating an herb garden in a vertical spiral formation. The concept of his design takes into account sunlight intensity based on navigational direction (north, south, east, west) and water drainage and retention based on level of placement in the vertical spiral. For example, plants on the west will get more sun exposure than plants on the north side; plants selected for the top level should have a lower water need than plants on the bottom as gravity will pull moisture downward.

How was the herb spiral constructed?
The spiral is dry-stacked (no concrete or other adhesive material) brick on top. As the spiral was built, bagged top soil was added to support walls and provide media for plants after construction was complete. Cardboard and weed barrier were used at the base to suppress grass from the surrounding lawn. Pinestraw mulch was used over those barriers and in the planted portion of the spiral . A temporary sprinkler with a timer was used to aid in plant establishment.

The original design sketch is in the photo carousel at the bottom of this page. A few modifications have been made over time as some plants have performed better than others or were not available at the time of installlation. The pond/bog garden at the base was not implemented. Over the years rosemary and lemongrass were used individually in the top layer, but both grew too large for the space.
Herbs that have performed quite well consistently and fit the space appropriately are basil, parsley, thyme, oregano, lavender, and sage. These make up the foundation plants of the spiral herb garden and are interspersed with seasonal flowers, vegetables, and other herbs.

All materials were donated by Master Gardener Volunteers or purchased using funds raised at the annual plant sale.