Four Best Herbs To Grow In Pots And Containers

Herbs are probably the best type of edibles that can be grown in containers. They are suited to growing in containers, usually a little of the plant goes a long way, and they can be positioned either close or actually inside the kitchen for easy access. Fresh herbs are more likely to be used if cooking with them does not entail traipsing down to the bottom of the garden to pick them, so arranged outside the back door, on the patio or decking, or on the kitchen windowsill is perfect for easy access. Even if you live in a flat or apartment, you can still grow enough herbs to keep you supplied all season.

Basil. A very popular herb for cooks, popular in Mediterranean as well as Asian cooking. It is easy to grow, happily thriving in pots outside when it is sufficiently warm or on a sunny window sill inside. It is actually a tender perennial but grown as an annual in colder climates. Can be eaten raw in salads, added to cooking or made into pesto. Tearing rather than cutting will prevent the leaves from turning an unsightly black.

Coriander. Another perennial grown as an annual in colder climates, the seeds, leaves, stems and flowers of this herb can all be eaten. Very popular in Asian cooking and has a refreshing taste. It is regarded as an aid to digestion. This herb is related to the carrot family and similarly, benefits from a deep growing medium for its tap roots, so choose a deeper pot for this herb. It does have a tendency to bolt in hot weather with direct sunlight, so growing in pots is a distinct advantage as it can be easily moved to a shadier part of the garden if necessary.

Mint. This is a vigorous grower with a tendency to behave like a weed if planted in the ground. Ideally suited to growing in pots to keep its sprawling growing habit in check it will thrive year after year in a suitable sized container. Mint is meant to deter many garden pests as well as fleas so an ideal place to keep it is by the doors or windows. Mint prefers damp growing medium, and to be kept in a shady part of the garden. It can be used in cooking, makes for wonderful minted peas or potatoes and can be infused for a refreshing cup of tea.

Chives. A hardy perennial, chives are a wonderful herb to be used fresh in salads or used chopped up in cooking. It is related to the onion family and has a more delicate onion flavour that many find more agreeable than chopped or spring onions in salad. It produces beautiful pink coloured flowers creating a splash of colour amongst other herbs and making it a welcome addition to the window sill or garden. It will be kept happily growing positioned in a sunny spot.

Herbs are simple to look after and add flavour to meals. Herbs are also enjoyable to grow. If you do not have the time or space to grow other plants, they can be a rewarding and enjoyable way to have a little home grown produce.