R- Grow Herbs In Pots

A collection of herbs in containers in a sunny place near the house is a great asset for both garden and kitchen. The downside is that many pot-grown herbs die out in winter. However, they can be harvested in autumn and stored for use throughout the winter season.

Most herbs are suitable for container cultivation. They can easily be sown from seed or bought from nurseries or garden centres. Beware of the pot-grown herbs offered in supermarkets, as they are usually grown under glass and are often too lush and stressed to adapt well to life outdoors.

PLANTING HERBS

Container: Containers must have drainage holes and be large enough to accommodate the roots as they grow.

Light: Most herbs need full sun at least 6 hours a day. But where the temperature is soaring, herb containers may need to be shaded during the hottest part of the day.

Soil: Use high-quality potting soil because most herbs need good drainage. Also, make sure that your container has drainage holes. For better results prepare your own potting soil with:-

• 1 part coconut coir or peat moss
• 1 part compost
• 1 part perlite
• 1 part topsoil

Fertilizer: Be careful not to over-fertilize herbs. Most don’t like it and some herbs will flat out croak if they are fussed with and overfed. Some herbs, like thyme and oregano, thrive on neglect and won’t be as tasty if they are given too much attention, water or food.

 

SUGGESTED HERBS

All herbs will grow in containers.

Combine herbs according to their shape so there is room for more than one in a pot. For example, pair upright rosemary with creeping thyme. If the pot is large enough, you can add sage or chives, too.

For compact herbs, including mint, oregano, thyme, sage, and rosemary.

In humid climates, use pea gravel mulch in the pot to help keep leaves from rotting.