How to grow your own herb garden at home
Growing your own herb garden is a rewarding and cost-effective way to add freshness and flavour to your cooking. In this guide, the British Garden Centres team explore the simple steps you can take to start and maintain your very own herb garden right in your own home. All the herbs can be bought in pots and planted or grown from seed if you have the time.
Basil
A peppery herb that people tend to associate with summer and pesto pasta. But although it is an annual, basil is an herb that can be grown any time of year on a sunny windowsill and will add a real hint of freshness to your dishes.
Thyme
Thyme is a versatile herb that can tolerate a variety of conditions. It's great for adding flavour to a wide range of dishes and grows well in pots or the ground. Thyme pairs well with meats, and roasted vegetables such as potatoes and is a common ingredient in soups and stew.
Mint
The staple for a lot of drinks or lamb dishes. A refreshingly tasting herb that gives a wonderful lift to food and drink especially in the summer, especially cocktails and mocktails. It can be added to salads, such as fruit salads, and leafy and potato salads to add a refreshing flavour, or as a marinade or garnish for meats, such as lamb. Mint can be a bully in a garden so it's best planted in a container where it will thrive.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a brilliant addition to food, providing a fresh and unique pine-tasting twist. It complements roasted meats such as lamb, chicken, turkey, pork, and beef and can be added to bread dough or focaccia dough to infuse it with flavour.
Sage
Sage can be used in poultry dishes, especially with chicken and turkey. It also has a great savoury flavour to pasta dishes, particularly those featuring butter or cream sauces, like ravioli or gnocchi.
Parsley
Both flat-leaf and curly parsley are popular herbs in the UK. They can be grown in pots or the ground and are relatively easy to care for. Parsley can be used in salads to add a fresh and vibrant flavour and pairs well with seafood dishes.
Chives
Chives are a member of the onion family and grow well in the UK. They produce attractive purple flowers and are great for adding a mild onion flavour to dishes. Chives pair exceptionally well with potatoes and as a garnish to soups.
Coriander
Coriander is a staple in many cuisines and can be grown in the UK with some care. It prefers cooler temperatures and may bolt in hot weather, so it's best to grow it in the spring or autumn. It is a key ingredient in fresh salsas and a common garnish for Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes with its citrus flavour.
Oregano
Oregano is a hardy herb that can be grown in the UK. It prefers a sunny spot and well-drained soil. It is commonly used in Mediterranean, Italian, and Mexican dishes, like pizza, Greek salad, moussaka, chilli con carne, enchiladas, and tacos.
Bay
Bay leaves are commonly used in cooking and can be grown in the UK climate. They prefer a sheltered spot and can be grown in pots or on the ground. The leaves are often used to infuse flavour into various dishes during cooking, such as soups, stews, broths and rice to provide a fragrant aroma and subtle taste.
How to Plant
To plant your herbs in a container, begin by selecting a spacious planter with a depth of at least 6-8 inches. Fill approximately two-thirds of the container with loose, well-draining potting compost. Gently remove the herb plants from their pots, untangling any roots, and firmly press them into the compost, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Once planted, top up with more compost, covering the roots, and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Next, place the container in a sunny location such as a windowsill, conservatory, or under a skylight, where the herbs can receive ample sunlight. With proper care and regular watering, your herb garden will thrive, providing fresh flavours for your culinary creations.
Thanks for reading.
