The coronavirus lockdown translates into intense spells of boredom for most people. Not only do we have all this extra time on our hands, we also have extra brainspace. A space we desperately need to occupy- and now! How about giving your green thumb a test run during this period? While those hours away by planting sweet scented herbs at home that infuse their heady scent with your everyday cooking.You can cultivate your own kitchen garden! Now, before you pull out a fistful of sweet- scented luscious green leaves for cooking, let’s dive into the basics.Are you low on space? Or perhaps your preference is to grow a variety of herbs that require different growing conditions? In that case container gardening might be your best bet. Be careful, though! Drainage is a key factor to consider with all kinds of pots, so do not overlook it. Choose pots that provide adequately for excess water to flow out. Oh and let’s talk about one more technicality while we are at it, your pots should be at least 6 inches in diameter. Clay or terracota pots are ideal. Not only are they economical and long lasting, they are also easy to lug around as per your culinary whims.
Mint
Mint is a deliciously aromatic herb that infuses its sweet scent with vegetables, curries and condiments such as chutney. It also imparts a minty fragrance to tea.
Pot: Mint spreads its lusciousness really quickly so you can stick to either a 6 inch pot or even a 20 inch pot to limit its coverage.
Soil: The soil should be dense in moisture and nutrients.
Sun Factor: This is a hardy little survivor can blossom even if you keep it in a part of the house which receives very little sunshine.
Watering Requirements: It needs sufficient water to survive and thrive in all its emerald beauty.
Top Tip: Pluck out leaves regularly to stimulate the plant’s lushness.
Rosemary
This herb is used extensively in Mediterranean cooking. It imparts a wonderful flavor to meat dishes.
Pot: Rosemary will benefit from a pot that is atleast 30 cm deep because of the structure of its roots.
Soil: The soil should be well- drained.
Watering Requirements: Excessive watering is harmful for the plant. It does need moisture though.
Sun Factor: The plant needs to soak up some serious sun to grow (Full sun). A place which allows for plenty of sunlight is good.
Top Tip: It is preferred that the aromatic herb is grown from cuttings.
Thyme
Both fresh and dried varieties of Thyme are used in Mediterranean cuisine.
Pot: A small pot will do very nicely for thyme.
Soil: It does good in soil that is well- drained and tilts towards the dry end.
Sun Factor: The plant requires full exposure to sunlight.
Watering requirements: This is a tough cookie. Its water requirements are towards the lower end of the spectrum. Over watering is a big no-no.
Top Tip: For best results grow this hardy herb from cuttings.
Parsley
Sprigs of parsley are used as garnish in soups, salads as well as in herb butters.
Pot: Use a deep pot that goes down to about 18 inches.
Soil: The soil needs to be augmented with “slow- release organic fertilizer” as per Niki Jabbour, when the little beauty is being planted.
Sun factor: The plant blooms quite well in sunlight.
Watering Requirements: It needs to be watered adequately.
Top Tip: Use seeds to grow parsley. The results will be worth the slow progress.
Basil
Pungent basil leaves go well with tomatoes, sauces, soups and salads. It is widely used in Italian cuisine.
Pot: Use a deep pot that has a depth of about 18 inches to accommodate its root system.
Soil: It thrives well in soil that is well drained.
Sun factor: Basil requires plenty of exposure to the golden rays of the sun. Keep your pot in a sheltered but sunny place.
Watering requirements: It requires adequate moisture. Glorious mornings are the best time to water this verdant beauty.
Coriander
Coriander leaves, seeds and powder add a mild aroma to sub continental culinary delights. Coriander is also used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine.
Pot: Pots should be atleast 25 cm deep to accommodate coriander’s tap roots.
Soil: Blooms in well- drained soil.
Sun Factor: This kitchen classic blossoms quite nicely in shade.
Watering Requirements: The plant needs sufficient water to sustain itself.
Top Tip: Keep the foliage lush to look at and refreshing to reap by plucking leaves regularly.
References:
Herb Gardening Containers: Selecting the Right Pots and Planters.
Jabbour, N. The 7 best herbs for container gardening.
Smith, M.R. Ten of the best herbs to grow in containers. 15 Aug 2014.
Vanheems, B. How to Grow Delicious Herbs in pots. 09 Dec 2016.
Wall, K. HOW TO CHOOSE A POT TO GROW HERBS IN.
Morris, S; Mackley, L. 1997.The World Encyclopedia of Spices. New York: HERMES HOUSE.
Smith, M.R. Ten of the best herbs to grow in containers. 15 Aug 2014.
1 comment
Very informative… yet it will definitely help me for my kitchen garden .. ❤❤