Finally, spring has sprung in the southern hemisphere and if you have always wanted to grow your own vegetable and herb garden – now is the ideal time.
There is nothing better than the delectable scent of fresh herbs wafting through the garden on a spring day. Even if there is not enough room for a jam packed herb patch, a few pots of herbs will do the job to add aroma, freshness and flavour to your cooking.
Some Tips to Growing Your Own Herb Garden
The golden rule is – you don’t need a lot of space, but you do need sunlight. In fact, any space will do, as long as there is sunlight. They will grow well in pots or in randomly in the garden alike. They can be positioned on a balcony, on a windowsill offering plenty of light. They can even be grown on a raised veggie patch. The choices are diverse. It is important to note that the more accessible the herbs to the kitchen, the more likely you are going to use them.
- Sunlight - Almost all herbs do well in sunlight as opposed to shade. However mint, parsley and coriander are able to grow in part shade.
- Good Soil Drainage - Before planting in a raised veggie patch, it is central to the longevity of the herbs that you condition the soil with the appropriate organic matter, compost as well as manure. Plant your herbs in free draining soil. If they are in plant pots, make sure there are plenty of drainage holes. You can even drill a few holes into the bottom of the pot. As well as this, use premium potting mix.
- Fertiliser - Most herbs grow well without being fertilized, especially if the soil has been improved prior to planting. However rocket, coriander and parsley will do well with some liquid fertilizer, but not essential.
- Water - When the herbs have just been planted, it is important to maintain moist soil. After a couple of weeks, once the herbs have been established, water them 1-2 times per week. If the herbs are in a pot, it is important to water them more regularly as the soil tends to dry out more in a pot.
Herbs for First Time Growers
Basil, dill, garlic, mint, oregano, parsley, rocket, chives and thyme are the easiest herbs to cultivate and perfect for beginner growers as they are quite resilient.
Originally published on Sep 16, 2013
