Herbs To Grow in Problem Areas

Herbs grow well along walls, sheds, and fences, adding color and texture to areas that can appear bald and unwelcoming. A little herbal green near posts, downspouts, faucets, and pet pens can camouflage unsightly areas and add a little whimsy and panache to a bare spot. If you want to dress up a plain or neglected area with herbs, the following lists should help:

Herbs to Grow Along the Shady Side of Fences and Walls (not in areas that experience total shade):

Mint (peppermint, spearmint):
Lemon Balm
Catnip
Sweet Woodruff
Periwinkle
Angelica
Meadowsweet
Mustard
Wild Strawberry
Salad Burnet
Tansy

Herbs to Grow Along the Sunny Side of Fences and Walls:

Thyme
Santolina
Hyssop
Rosemary
Chives
Lavender
Lemon Verbena
Hops

Creeping and Climbing Herbs:

Thyme (creeping)
Rosemary (prostrate)
Pennyroyal (creeping mint) Caution: Although pennyroyal is a natural insect (flea and mosquito) repellent, and is useful in the garden, it can be toxic to humans and pets.

This is just a sampling, and within each of these categories there are often many varieties to choose from. Use caution when planting related varieties together as they'll often cross-pollinate with undesirable results.