Growing your own herbs is a rewarding way to nurture flavour, fragrance, and health!
Written by Claire Bickle
There are many benefits to growing your own herbs. When homegrown and freshly picked, they can be grown organic, flavourful, and packed with essential oils and beneficial compounds.
They can:
• Enhance your cooking
• Attract beneficial insects and pollinators
• Support your health and well-being
• Save you money
• Transform your garden or living space with fragrance and greenery
From parsley to basil, and lavender to mint, herbs are versatile plants that grow well in both garden beds, containers and pots, making them ideal for gardeners of all levels, even those with limited space.
Getting started
The word herb is a broad term used for plants that are useful in some way, culinary, medicinal, or ornamental. Herbs come from a wide range of plant families and climates, so their growth habits and requirements can vary significantly.
For example:
- Coriander (Cilantro) is a cool-season annual that tends to bolt in hot weather.
- Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a slow-growing evergreen tree that can live for decades.
- Rosemary, lavender, and thyme thrive in dry, sunny, Mediterranean-style conditions.
- Mint, lemon balm, and parsley prefer more moisture and will tolerate partial shade.
There is no one size fits all approach when it comes to herbs, so it’s important to understand the specific growing needs of each variety before planting.
Preparing the soil
Most herbs prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. Compacted or waterlogged soils can cause root diseases and stunted growth.
- In garden beds: Loosen the soil and enrich it with compost, such as ActivGrow Soil Improver, to boost microbial activity and overall fertility.
- New garden beds: For ready-to-plant solutions, use Rocky Point Organic Health Garden Soil, and mulch well with Rocky Point Lucerne Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Choosing containers
For balcony, patio, or indoor gardeners, pots are a great option. Choose containers with sufficient drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
- Terracotta pots allow the soil to breathe but can dry out quickly.
- Plastic pots retain moisture better and are lightweight and easy to move.
For both style and function, consider placing a plastic pot inside a decorative outer pot.
Use Rocky Point Tomato and Herb Mix or Premium Potting Mix to give them the nutrients they need.
Planting techniques
Herbs can be grown from either seeds or seedlings:
- Seeds are cost-effective and offer a wider range of varieties.
- Seedlings provide a quicker harvest and are ideal for beginners.
Follow the instructions on your seed packetfor correct depth and spacing. Start seeds in Rocky Point Seed Raising Mix and keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) until germination.
Care and maintenance
Watering
Herbs generally prefer even, moderate moisture.
- Overwatering can lead to fungal problems and root rot.
- Underwatering may cause wilting, stunted growth, or a bitterness in flavour.
Check the soil regularly and adjust your watering based on the weather, container type, and the specific needs of each herb variety.
Sunlight
Most culinary herbs like basil, thyme and oregano need 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily.
Shade-tolerant herbs such as parsley, mint and chervil will grow well in morning sun or dappled light.
Pruning and harvesting
- Frequent and light harvesting encourages bushy, healthy growth.
- Always use clean scissors or fingers to snip herbs just above a leaf node.
- Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time to keep it thriving.
Using your harvest
Cooking
Fresh herbs are perfect for elevating everyday meals. From soups and salads to marinades and sauces, chop them just before use them to preserve their oils and maximise flavour.
Preserving
- Drying: Hang herbs in small bunches in a warm, well-ventilated space, or use a dehydrator.
- Freezing: Chop and freeze herbs in ice cube trays with olive oil or water, ready to drop into your next dish.
Medicinal Remedies
Herbs like lavender, chamomile, and peppermint can be used to make herbal teas, calming balms, or sleep pillows. Many herbs have a long history in traditional medicine, but always consult a health professional before using them for therapeutic purposes.
Crafting
Use your dried herbs to create scented sachets, potpourri, natural candles, or herbal wreaths. Their fragrance and charm make them perfect for gifts, home décor, or seasonal decorations.
To learn more about herbs click here
To read more of Claire Bickle’s work head over to her website: Claire Bickle | Gardening for the Good Life!
