Idiot Proof Herb Gardening

That may not be a very kind title but I just really want to get across how easy it is to grow beautiful, delicious herbs. Herb gardening is easy, it is good fun, it is extremely worthwhile and what's more - anybody can do it.
Herbs have very few requirements - all they need from you is some sunshine, some well drained and draining soil, a little fertilizer and the occasional drink of water. Many herbs will happily grow in containers so even people without a garden can have an endless supply of fresh, delicious herbs to complement their cooking. Remember though that some herb plants can grow quite large (up to 6 feet) so you may have to re-pot them from time to time to keep them happy.
Bring me Sunshine
Herbs love sunshine so the best place for them in the garden is where they are going to get full sun - that is unless you live in an extremely sunny place (lucky you) with regular temperatures over 90 degrees in which case they could do with a little shade in the early mornings and evenings. Some herbs will grow happily beneath a tree or shrub where the full force of the sun is dappled by the leaves.
Give me Space
Different herb plants grow to different sizes so it is important that they each have plenty of space in which to grow and thrive. Here's an idea of the most popular herbs and how much space they will need;
Three - Four Feet per Plant - that's how much room you need to provide for Sage, Rosemary, Mint, Marjoram and Oregano plants.
Two Feet per Plant - is needed for Basil, Savory and Tarragon plants.
One Foot per Plant - is sufficient for Parsley, Cilantro, Dill and Chives plants.
Preparing the Soil
This is probably the most important part of herb gardening and a stage which must definitely not be skimped upon. Herbs need well prepared soil with plenty of fertilizer and drainage to keep them healthy. It is quite a simple procedure but you must do it properly. The first thing to do is to use a garden fork and dig deeply into the soil breaking up wherever it may have become compacted - this helps the water to drain away and creates space for the roots of the herb plants to take a firm hold. It doesn't matter how healthy your herbs are when you plant them, if you don't do this they are very likely to wilt and die.
After you've dug over the soil you should mix in some fertilizer or compost to nourish the soil and provide essential nutrients for the herb plants.
Find the healthiest, strongest herb plans you can to plant in your herb garden and remember that they will need regular watering. Herb plants do not like to dry out so it's a good idea to keep them moist although over watering is not a good idea either. Just keep an eye on the health of the plants and you should soon notice whether you are watering them too much or too little.
That's all there is to it - herb gardening really is very simple and worthwhile, anybody can do it.