Why grow your herbs in containers? - Some guidelines for herb gardens in small spaces

Why grow your herbs in containers? - Some guidelines for herb gardens in small spaces

Even the beginner can grow a few herbs in containers. This is a very cost-effective way to start your own herb garden. It's also very rewarding to see and use your own home-grown produce knowing it's healthy and pesticide-free.

Growing your herbs in containers not only looks good but is also very practical as your herbs are useful to you but also create an interesting display in your courtyard or patio.

Where space is limited in cities, there is usually no more than a terrace, balcony or small garden. Therefore, container gardening is ideal as it is the only way to grow a few fresh herbs and other plants. Growing herbs in pots offers a way to soften the landscape and bring the garden to your door, capturing the richness of past seasons.

The type of container used varies depending on the material, shape and texture, from plastic pots and terracotta to any container you have. All your container needs are drainage holes and a good soil mix. Half barrels are a good size for grouping a variety of herbs. Ugly containers can be hidden among foliage or hidden behind more glamorous pots. Using containers of the same color and style can look effective with different herbs planted in each.

Container size is important because they need to be large enough to hold enough potting soil for plants to root safely and to provide enough moisture and nutrients to sustain growth, with holes for drainage. There is no use in planting a laurel tree in a 6-inch pot as it needs more soil to grow well as it grows into a large tree.

To give your herb garden containers a custom look, you can decorate your own pots. An easy way to do this is to paint a simple pot or add stencils to match your color scheme.

Because frost can damage some containers, you should think about the durability of your containers, especially if they are expensive. You may need to move your containers undercover in areas with severe frost.

Large filled containers are difficult to move. Therefore, if possible, plant them in the place where you want them to stay. If you need to move them, use a purpose-built low cart on wheels or roll your container on its side. You can take the help of a strong person. Make sure your containers are protected from strong winds and place them against a wall or other shelter. Or you can add a decorative stone to add weight to a plastic pot and help retain moisture.

Remember that many herbs have flowers that come in different colors and scents. Grouping a few containers of different lavender together with their purple flowers not only makes a great focal point but smells good too. You can use the flowers as a garnish or flavoring for frostings and sauces.

Herbs that grow well in containers include: parsley, thyme, basil, chives, rosemary, tarragon, marjoram.

You will be rewarded with successful planting by following a few guidelines that will ensure the right conditions for vigorous and healthy plants, even if you are a novice gardener. Good drainage, food and light, and ongoing maintenance like picking a few herbs regularly are all that's needed to get started.