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.

aka Basil mixed

A mixed selection of highly ornamental form of Sweet Basil which is great for summer salads. Lush foliage with full of flavour and fragrance. Plant in a sunny well drained spot and protect from frost. Pinch back to a new growth point as you harvest the leaves to encourage re-growth. Annual.

 

aka Borage or Star flower

Borage is an old herb, known at least since Roman times. It is said that borage gladdens the heart. It can add colour and interest to any garden, and it has value in the kitchen as well. For the avid herb gardener, it's a must.

 

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 Chives

Flat leaves with a mild garlic flavour make these versatile Chives a useful Herb for a variety of dishes. A good substitute for those who find bulb garlic too strong. Plant in a sunny well drained spot. Perennial.

 

aka Bronze fennel

Bronze fennel can be used in place of Green Fennel in any recipe, and the soft wispy leaves with their unique bronze colour add a lot of visual interest in the flower or herb garden. With a height of four feet and a breadth almost as great, its wide spreading grace also makes it the perfect back of the border.

Try combining the leaves of Bronze Fennel with French Tarragon for an extra kick. French Tarragon has a spicy bite that the Fennel does not, and yet both have the anise or licorice flavour.

 

aka Fennel

A gourmet bulb Fennel with big white bulbs that are not too fibrous and have a delicious, mild, aniseed flavour. The bulb can be eaten raw or cooked and the foliage can be finely chopped and used as a garnish. Likes the sun and fertile, well drained soil. Perennial.

 

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.

 

This is a tall addition to the garden and often placed at the back of the border. It is a good idea to start a new plant every few years. Lovage prefers a rich soil that retains moisture well. It likes full sun in cool climates or partial shade where summers are very hot.

Leaves and stems used as a savoury flavouring in salads, soups, stews etc, imparting a yeasty/celery flavour.

 

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