Starting a herb garden at home
A thriving home herb garden has many of the same satisfactions as your veggie garden, with the added benefit of money saved (prices for herbs at the supermarket are outrageous), they are super easy to grow and usually produce all year round. Mint for a zoom knock-off mojito, anyone?
If you’re looking to start your own herb garden, here’s where to begin.
Pick a pot or planter box
If you want to keep your herbs close for easy picking, a few pots on the balcony or deck can be convenient. If you are going to keep them in the backyard, a raised planter box is best. The main thing to keep in mind is that the pot or planter will provide enough drainage – nobody likes root rot.
Plan your crop
The first thing to do is select herbs that you’ll actually use – think about herbs you buy and use frequently. Ask around and see if it’s possible to get a cutting from a friend or neighbour to propagate them! If not, we recommend buying starter plants rather than seedlings – they’ll be easier and quicker to grow!
Pick them up or order them from a local business.
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Timing your crop
You can use a planting calendar to determine the best time to plant different things. For example herbs such as oregano, parsley, thyme, coriander and winter tarragon will grow well when planted in autumn.
Prep the soil and get planting
When you’re ready to plant your herbs, be sure to use potting soil as it more effective at draining. If you can, add a little compost and slow release fertiliser for optimal results. Give your herbs plenty of room between each other, they will grow better and last longer! Tip: Most will prefer indirect sunlight, and some afternoon shade.
Watering and fertilizer
Your herbs will need regular watering and maintenance to grow and flourish. Regular harvesting is also crucial, as this primes them for new growth.
Setting up a your herb garden will take minimal effort, give you plenty of enjoyment and a steady supply of fresh herbs!
