Planting a Herb Garden

Many herbs are available to buy in pots or containers that may be simply planted out into the garden. Whilst they may be planted at any time of the year, it is usually best to do so in spring, as they will establish far more quickly. Any container-grown herb that has been kept in a heated greenhouse should be gradually hardened off in a cold-frame before being planted out.

Method

Water the herbs in their containers so that their root-balls are thoroughly moist before planting. Set the pots out in the positions that you intend to plant them, and check that each herb has enough room to develop according to its growth rate and spread. Re-arrange as necessary.

Invasive plants such as mints (Mentha), tansy (Tanacetum vulgare, or woodruff (Asperula odorata) are best planted in a container sunk into the ground to restrict their growth. An old bucket or large plastic pot filled with compost or topsoil may be used, although you must make sure that there are sufficient drainage holes in the base. Bury the container into the ground so that the rim protrudes 2.5 cm (1 in) above the soil. The plants should be lifted and divided every spring and the young, vigorous pieces replanted in fresh compost. This will prevent the herbs from deteriorating due to overgrowth and lack of nutrients.

After planting, water well and trim back shrubby herbs or pinch out the tips of clump-forming plants. This will encourage them to develop sideshoots and to develop a bushy habit.