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Herbs Grow Guide

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There are no real rules when it comes to planning and planting your herb garden, but there are a few basic fundamentals to consider – will it be a windowsill or outside herb garden?

Is it for culinary use or ornamental?

The answers to these questions will help you create a herb garden that suits your needs.

Site selection
Herbs will not demand much care, attention or space so are some of the easiest plants to grow. Raised beds, containers and grow bags suit herbs as they have efficient drainage and make them easily accessible for harvesting. Haxnicks Patio Planters make stylish homes for your herb garden, although they can be grown in the garden or anywhere you have space.

Planting
Whichever way you go herbs, like all other plants, need drainage, space, light, and water for survival. A great free draining mix perfect for pots or for planting direct into the garden is Tui Herb Mix.

Tui Herb Mix is a high quality blend of bark and pumice and is nitrogen rich for repeat harvesting. It contains Saturaid to enhance water absorption and distribution. The initial fertiliser promotes robust growth and will minimize transplanting stress.

Some herbs will benefit from the addition of compost to the growing site. Check individual herb growing requirements as some herbs will develop a better flavour in a less fertile soil.

Don’t be shy when planting herbs as they quite like close neighbours – and since they are regularly picked this keeps the growth in check. You can always plant herbs in between other plants as they make great space fillers.

Plant a variety of different herbs to have fresh supplies all year round so harvesting is not restricted to parts of the year.

Fertilising
An occasional application of Tui Eco Fert is recommended to boost growth and keep plants healthy.

Pests and Disease
Generally herbs are not greatly affected by insect and disease problems – so are among the easiest things to grow! You can avoid disease like rot by using Saturaid – this will prevent the soil getting water logged as herbs like good drainage.

Mulching
Once herbs are established, they will benefit from a mulch, which will help prevent the soil drying out and provide nutrients too.

Harvesting
Summer is usually when herbs aromas and flavours are at their peak but in general the best time to harvest is when plants are forming buds but haven’t yet flowered. Plant a variety of different herbs to have fresh supplies all year round so harvesting is not restricted to parts of the year.

Uses for herbs
The uses of herbs are endless and limited only to imagination for example make potpourri with herbs, spices and petals or make beautiful herb infused oils, or salad dressings that last up to a year, or simply pick them fresh and add to your salad or stir-fry. Most herbs can be dried, stored and frozen for use year round. Not to mention use in drinks, great for medicinal purposes, and even given as gifts.

Article courtesy of Tui Garden