Spring is the perfect time to start a herb garden, whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a small patio. Herbs are one of the easiest plants to grow, providing fresh, aromatic flavours for cooking while adding greenery to your space. With a little planning, you can create a thriving herb garden that will flourish throughout the seasons.
Choosing the Right Spot
Most herbs need plenty of sunlight to thrive. A position that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal. If you have limited outdoor space, don’t worry—many herbs grow well in pots on a sunny windowsill, balcony, or patio. The key is to ensure good air circulation and well-drained soil, whether in the ground or in containers.
Selecting Your Herbs
If you’re new to herb gardening, start with easy-to-grow varieties. Hardy perennials like rosemary, thyme, sage, chives, and oregano will return year after year with minimal fuss. If you prefer fresh flavours for summer, annuals such as basil, coriander, and dill are great choices, though they will need replanting each year. Mint is another popular herb, but it’s best grown in a pot as it spreads aggressively when planted in the ground.
Herbs are generally low-maintenance, but regular care will keep them productive and healthy.
Preparing the Soil
Herbs prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. If you’re planting in the ground, loosen the soil and mix in compost to improve drainage and fertility. In pots, use a high-quality compost and ensure containers have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Avoid using heavy, clay-rich soil, as it retains too much moisture, which can cause root rot.
Planting Your Herbs
Some herbs grow best from seeds, while others do better as small plants from a garden centre. Coriander and dill, for example, don’t transplant well, so it’s best to sow them directly into the soil after the last frost. Herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme can be started indoors and moved outside when the weather warms up.
If you’re planting multiple herbs together, consider their needs—Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary and thyme prefer drier conditions, while parsley and basil need more moisture. Grouping them accordingly will help them thrive.
Caring for Your Herb Garden
Herbs are generally low-maintenance, but regular care will keep them productive and healthy.
- Watering: While most herbs don’t like soggy roots, they do need consistent moisture. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure pots have good drainage.
- Pruning and Harvesting: Regularly trimming your herbs encourages bushy growth and prevents them from becoming leggy. Pinching off flowers on herbs like basil keeps the leaves more flavourful.
- Feeding: Herbs don’t require heavy feeding, but occasional organic fertiliser can give them a boost. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can reduce their flavour.
- Protecting Against Pests: Slugs and aphids are common pests that can damage herbs. Companion planting with flowers like marigolds can help deter pests naturally.
Creating an Attractive Herb Garden
A herb garden doesn’t just have to be practical—it can be beautiful too. You can plant herbs in a raised bed, line them along a path, or create a decorative spiral garden to make the most of your space. Hanging baskets and window boxes are also great for small gardens, allowing easy access to fresh herbs right outside your door.
Why Grow Your Own Herbs?
Growing your own herbs not only saves money but also gives you access to fresher, more flavourful ingredients than store-bought versions. They add fragrance to your garden, attract pollinators, and can even be used for natural remedies or homemade teas.
By starting your herb garden this spring, you’ll enjoy a steady supply of fresh ingredients for cooking, while also creating a green space that is easy to maintain and enjoy. Whether you choose a few pots on a windowsill or a dedicated herb bed in the garden, now is the perfect time to get started.