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Herb or ‘erb, however you pronounce it, herbs are very useful plants, and are found in most gardens and kitchens all over the world. Herbs have a variety of uses - food, flavouring, medicine, fragrances, cosmetics and I some cases for spiritual care.

For most herbs, it’s leaf or flower, we use - either dried or fresh.

Herbs can be grown in pots, containers, and gardens, indoors or out. When growing herbs together in one container, select varieties with similar habits, for example chives, mint, chervil and coriander like plenty of water, whereas rosemary, thyme, sage and oregano prefer well-drained soil. Clipping back and regular picking will help control the rampant habit or some herbs, and promote a continuous supply.

A useful and attractive perennial with grey/green foliage and pretty sprays of mauve flowers that appear from spring right through to autumn. Useful as an edging for flower beds. Loves a sunny position and a good haircut every now and then. Hardy, evergreen easy to grow if you can keep your cats off it long enough!

 

aka Garlic

A culinary soft neck Garlic with a premium flavour. Forms large, firm, white skinned cloves. Companion plant as aphid deterrent. Plant in a sunny, well drained spot with the 'pointy' end up in Jun, harvest Dec. Use low nitrogen fert. Stores well. For more info www.wairere.co.nz/How-To

Once you have dug your Garlic up around Christmas time (6 months after planting). Leave to dry in a warm dry spot until the leaves die down. Then break the leaves off and store whole in the pantry until you are ready to use. Home grown fresh Garlic has an exquisite sweet flavour that is hard to beat. Bon appetit.

 

aka Fingeroot or Gachii

Edible Ginger. A type of ginger from Asia whose bright yellow, finger-shaped roots are commonly used in hot Thai curries. Also has a medicinal value. Perennial aromatic Herb.

 

Lemon balm loses much of its flavor when dried, so it is a seasonal delight to be enjoyed while the weather is mild and the plant is green. However, enough of the fragrance remains when this herb is dried to make it a delightful addition to potpourri.

Like many other herbs, lemon balm can lose its flavor in cooking, so add it near the end of the cooking process. The fresh lemon fragrance and flavor go nicely with both chicken and fish dishes, as well as fruit and fruit juice drinks. Create your own herbal tea by cutting a few stems of lemon balm (plus any other appealing herbs), putting them in a pitcher, pour boiling water over them, and allow them to steep for about 15 minutes. Enjoy your tea hot or over ice.

 

aka Citronella grass

Fragrant swaying grass that will add texture and movement as well as contrast among more compact plants. Used in cooking and for making tea. Ideal container plant or in a border or garden bed.

The oil is antiseptic, antibacterial and antiviral. Also used as an antidepressant, to soothe aches and pains, to relieve stress. If drunk before bed will induce sleep. Effective for headaches and respiratory problems. Pour boiling water over sliced leaves and steep for 5 minutes for Lemongrass tea. Sweeten as desired. Can be dried for tea, potpourri or cooking.

 

Originating from Acorn Bank, the National Trust garden in Cumbria, this golden marjoram has very long, pointed leaves. To achieve the full golden colour of this herb, plant it in semi shade. Full sun can produce pale leaves

 

A hardy perennial that is the Basil you have when you don’t have any Basil. Spreads easily so container planting may be a good option.

Add late in the cooking as the mint aroma fades quickly. Finely chop leaves and use them in salad dressings, marinades and sauces. Add to salads and vegetables for an exotic flavour. Tastes a lot like Sweet Basil so partners well with similar strong flavoured herbs.

 

aka Catmint

A useful and attractive perennial with grey/green foliage and pretty sprays of mauve blue flowers that appear from spring right through to autumn. Useful as an edging for flower beds. Loves a sunny position and a good haircut every now and then. Hardy, evergreen and yes cats love it!

 

aka Oregano or Marjoram

Herb. A highly ornamental and delicious herb that is an essential ingredient in Italian style cuisine. A must have on top of Pizza. Mainly used dry. Plant in a sunny well drained spot and give it a good haircut every now and then. Perennial.

 

aka Rosemary

A prostrate form of Rosemary that has a ground-hugging habit. Pretty, clear blue flowers set against blue-green, aromatic foliage. Flowers through the summer and will attract bees to the garden. Extremely hardy, excellent for coastal planting and hot sunny positions. Evergreen.