Why? Because it’s easy, zero waste and feels great
FUSSY FACT
Many herbivores don’t actually like herbs!
And it’s almost time to plant them outside…(or on a sunny windowsill).
So many upsides to growing our own, right?
No waste going to landfill, with all that awful
non-recyclable packaging. Feels so good and rejuvenating to have our fingers in the soil, to see something grow, to pick it when we need it. Saves us money through the summer, with many lasting all year round. Exciting extras, with some herbs like marjoram attracting butterflies (although slugs can get in on the action too). And last but not least, no risk of getting caught without mint for a summer evening spritzer.
So…if you haven’t already, shall we?
Ok, any tips?
Disclaimer, we aren’t gardeners by any stretch of the imagination. Here’s what we’ve learnt…
It’s easiest to start from plants (rather than seeds). Buy organically grown if you can. Try, where possible, to buy yours in any coloured plastic pots other than black - they can’t be recycled.
[We’ve got ourselves supermarket ones this time, but really good quality plants are the way to go, if you can. We’ve had a scout and most garden centres who are taking online orders can only deliver the seeds, though it’s worth checking to see if any of your local nurseries have the plants.]
Use good quality compost and make sure the pot you plant it in, has a draining hole and some gravel at the bottom. Herbs don't like to be sodden! Equally don’t allow them to get too dry.
Make sure it’s warm and the frosts have gone before you put them out, they don’t appreciate being chilly. Keep tender herbs like basil in for now, they need proper summer sun.
When picking stems, do so from the outside in, leave the middle to keep growing.
Talk to them. Go on…
Green fingers? Got a good tip for everyone? We need your expertise, please post it below!
And…is there something you’re proud of, big or small? Email us, so we can feature you on our Weekly Shout Out. Everyone loves it and it’s a real boost, don’t be shy!
What about the spend?
You’ll save a ton. A little herb plant costs about £1.50 from the supermarket, a bit more from a garden centre, depending on the pot size. Planted, in good soil and cared for, they will last you pretty much all summer long. Packet fresh herbs cost about 85p a time.
We…
Aimee: I’m terrible at anything remotely garden / plant-related…I am a serial killer despite best intentions. I tried to grow cress with my niece recently and absent-mindedly sprayed it with kitchen cleaner rather than water…wrong bottle!!! So this is a true challenge for me - I’ve managed to keep a Sainsbury’s basil plant alive (just about) since lockdown so I’m feeling like a champ right now!! Pesto, anyone?
Sonia: Picked up my coriander and basil from the supermarket, ready to go in, love this feeling, means it’s almost summer! Amazingly my parsley survived the winter single-handed, and is back and going for it, miracle! The mint just keeps on giving and giving and giving and…
“Hello minty fresh!”
Photo: Markus Spiske