It seems that the herb business is a growth business these days. In an ever increasing effort to find the next health food to satisfy the pallet of the American population, herbs have been receiving a lot of attention from the media. Numerous articles are being churned out daily touting the health benefits of herbs. This is a real winner, aside from the reported health benefits, herbs also add to the taste of bland foods such as potatoes, rice and vegetables.

So what does this mean to a stay at home mother with kids? A new item to purchase on the next grocery trip, or can there be more? The answer is that there most definitely can and is more to this. Moms at home can now turn this opportunity into a small thriving business if implemented correctly.

How can moms implement this home-based herb business at home? Here are a few steps that should be taken to ensure success.

Who will your customers be? The most popular options are in the local neighborhood. Contact your local grocers produce manager and then the local restaurant manager. The key question is not asking them if they want to buy from you, we know they need herbs, but rather ask them which herbs they need?

Before venturing out stop by the local library if you are not familiar with herbs and study up on how herbs grow, what are their scientific names, what is the growing season, how much yield can you expect from each plant? Bottom line - do your homework. Don't let them trip you up with a simple question. They will not ask a complicated question.

Study up on these herbs;

" Basil
" French Tarragon
" Peppermint
" Oregano
" Sweet Marjoram
" Rosemary
" French Sorrel
" Dill
" Chives
" Parsley
" Thyme
" Sage

Find out what the current wholesale prices are for these herbs. You can find this data through a subscription to www.Todaymarket.com The subscription rate is $25/month but they do have a 7-day free service that you can test out. Otherwise you will need to work with the local grocer to find out what he is willing to pay. If you have a good reliable service he will work with you.

Decide on your packaging and labeling. Packaging and custom labels can be cost effective when purchased in bulk, but first find out if you will have any orders before purchasing supplies. You can design and make you own initial packaging for presentation purposes with the help of a local arts and crafts store.