Easy herbs to grow at home

I am not a green thumb; if anything can survive my “love” (or possibly over zealous gardening!) it is a winner. This year I planted a herb garden to make healthier, fresher meals and teas.

It is easier than you think, and rewarding. Cut what you need and add flavour to meals without the preservatives and additives that many sauces and seasonings contain.

Homegrown herbs:

[Image1 Soil, sun and water = fresh mixed herbs]

7 easy herbs to grow

1. Mint
Mint is hardy and grows quickly in garden beds or pots on apartment balconies.

It needs sun and shade to thrive, but can take over a garden bed! Plant in pots 30-40cm apart to promote fast growth and to prevent overcrowding.

2. Basil
Basil needs full sunlight and moist, but well drained, soil to thrive. Cut leaves regularly for re-growth and do not let it go to seed. It can last a couple of years!

[Image11 Grow mint and basil for a “green thumb confidence boost”, Asian meals or salads]

3. Coriander
Coriander needs sun, regular watering and well drained soil to thrive. It grows in the ground or in pots in the spring, winter and autumn but will struggle in the summer.

[Image5 Coriander roots, stem and leaves can be used]

4. Oregano
Oregano is hardy, self-seeding, can be divided and thrives when cut back. It likes full sun, not a lot of water and doubles as ground cover if you want an edible garden.

5. Rosemary
Rosemary is arguably the easiest herb to grow. It flourishes, grows tall and wide, including in dry climates and does not require much water or fertiliser.

It thrives well in the ground or in large pots and containers.

[Image12 Tough oregano and rosemary make great edible gardens and Mediterranean cuisine]

6. Parsley
Parsley grows outside or inside in sunny areas with a moderate amount of water.

There are two main varieties; flat and curly leaf. Both grow well in gardens, pots or containers.

7. Chives
Chives need full sun and moist, well drained soil. I understand chives prefer colder weather however I have successfully grown them in warmer climates (which says all!). Once established chives can spread, however they grow well in containers.

There are many varieties, including garlic chives.

[Image13 Add parsley and chives to almost any recipe]

Harvesting tips
Cut and use fresh herbs on the same day for best results. Leave a stem with a few leaves to encourage new growth.

[Image8 The coriander is starting to grow back after harvesting]

To preserve cut herbs longer;

If I can do it, so can you!

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#nutrition
#green_living
#plant_medicine


%healthyhints