Why grow Herbs?
Herbs are a range of plants that perform a multitude of roles, from culinary herbs to medical herbs and just for their beauty and aroma in the garden. Lavender is used for it’s aromatic / sleeping / therapeutic qualities. Culinary herbs such as Basil seeds & Chives for grazing and adding to a huge range of dishes. Shrubby herbs like Rosemary and Thyme, grown for multiply uses also add to the structure and character to a garden. Their versatility means they can be grown in containers and gardens.
Growing Herbs From Seed
- It’s best to germinate most herbs in early spring in a seed tray and place in a heated propagator.
- Generally, sow herb seeds in peat-free compost, mix with some silver sand for sharp drainage, a covering of vermiculite on the surface may aid even germination. Be sure to label your seeds. Herb seeds can vary so always check the seed packet for growing instructions
- Once your seeds have germinated, and your seedlings have produced their first two leaves, prick out, gently holding them by the leaves and levering them out with a dibber
- Pot them into individual pots or cell trays
- Gradually acclimatise your new herb plants by airing them outside during the day. A cold frame is the perfect place to raise your herb plants as it can be opened during the day and closed at night
Herb compost requirements
- When potting herbs on it is fundamental that the compost is free draining. Many herbs come from dry, arid environments. Mix peat-free compost with horticultural gravel and a gravel mulch on the surface will aid herb plants progress.
- Feed you herb plants as they start to grow, a good tonic like Seaweed extract will help
- Mix your herbs among veggies and flowers in a cottage garden style. This varied planting is incredibly effective. Herb Wheels are another popular way to grow these plants as well as troughs and window boxes. To keep herbs healthy clip new growth regularly.
What are the best herb seeds to grow?
Nothing tastes better than cooking with your own homegrown herbs!
- Basil seeds
- Coriander seeds
- Mint seeds
- Parsley seeds
- Dills seeds
For more information see our herb growing guide
Buy herb garden seeds online from Suttons
