By Phran Novelli

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Some people just have a knack for making things pretty, while others are much more practical. It’s the rare person who has the grace to mix the two, and my sister is one of the lucky few. From cooking and baking to raising children to raising big money, she makes everything seem effortless.

She took to gardening with the same ease she brings to other enterprises – checks quickly what the experts do, then jumps in and makes her own way. Whether she’s putting together pots for a party table inside or out on the patio, one of her secrets to pretty planters is also very practical – she uses herbs to fill in. Low growers like oregano and thyme spill over the sides in a lovely way; while higher herbs like basil, mint and rosemary add some structure as taller companions to flowers with their faces in the sun.

Then, when you cut flowers to bring inside, you can also snip some herbs to fill out your vase – and fill your home with fresh aromas. Which is also pretty practical.