You need an herb garden. They inspire creativity in the kitchen. They are easy to cultivate, even in an apartment window. And, having fresh basil, cilantro and parsley impresses houseguests and establishes you as gentleman of remarkable responsibility and foresight. Here are the five essential herbs for your garden.

5. Oregano

We at G@H swear by fresh oregano as a hamburger seasoning. Knead a little chopped oregano and garlic into your ground beef, and you will concur.

4. Thyme

Thyme is often paired with rosemary as in G@H’s Pecorino Romano Herb Beer Bread. We also use thyme with roasted chicken, lamb and beef.

3.Rosemary

Speaking of rosemary, few plants prove harder to kill, making this an excellent herb for the negligent gentleman. It also flowers with handsome purple blossoms.

2. Mint

Mint is the Chipper Jones of herbs: the ultimate switch hitter. Yes, it adds flavor to foods, such as salads, Mediterranean fare and deserts. But, it also enhances your mixology. We infuse ice tea with mint. We muddle it for mojitos and juleps. It garnishes a summertime Pimm’s cup.

1. Basil

Color us predictable, but basil tops our list. In fact, if we could have only five plants in our herb garden, we would select four varieties of basil (and one mint plant). We eat basil with goat cheese and homegrown tomatoes. With couple it with mangos and strawberries. Most awesomely, we make fresh basil pesto.