How to Create a Combination Herb Planter

Creating a herb planter is both a fun and rewarding project, and is also a practical way to bring fresh flavours right to your kitchen doorstep. We’ve created a comprehensive guide on how to create a thriving combination herb planter.

First Step, Choose your Container

Ideally, your container should be at least 12 inches deep and have sufficient drainage to prevent waterlogging. Terracotta pots are a popular choice due to their porous nature, which will help soil dry more evenly.

 Time to Choose your Herbs!

When choosing your herbs, consider the ones you use most frequently in cooking. Common favourites include basil, cilantro, parsley, thyme, and mint. For a harmonious planter, by sure to select herbs that have similar light and water needs. For instance, Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, thyme and oregano thrive together as they all prefer sunnier, drier conditions.

Soil and Planting

Use a high-quality potting mix to ensure your herbs get the nutrients they need. Avoid using generic garden soil and this can compact in planters, hindering root growth. Plant your herbs with enough space between them to allow for air circulation and growth. Typically, spacing them about 4-6 inches apart works well.

Watering and Feeding

Overwatering is a common mistake! Herbs do not like to sit in wet soil, so make sure to water your container only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. For feeding, use a balanced, slow-release fertiliser upon planting, and add a liquid feed every month or so during the growing season.

Location and Care

Place your herb planter in spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Most herbs thrive in full sun but check the specific needs of your chosen varieties. Regularly trim your herbs to encourage bushy grow and prevent them from flowering, as this can affect the taste of your herbs.

Harvesting your Herbs

You can start the harvest your herbs when they’re 6-8 inches tall. Be sure to take no more than one-third of the plant at a time. This ensures your herbs will continue to produce throughout the season.

Overwintering your Herbs

Some herbs, like parsley and chives, can survive mild winters if protected. Others, such as basil, are more tender and will need to be replanted each year. Consider moving perennial herbs indoors during the colder months to extend their life.

Creating a combination herb planter is an enjoyable way to add flavour and greenery to your home and garden space. By following these steps, you’ll be able to cultivate a mini herb garden as well as enjoy the freshest ingredients for your home cooking. Visit us at Hilltop Garden Centre for all your gardening needs, from planters of all sizes, compost for all plant types and a wide variety of herbs to choose from – you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Want to dive into creating a vegetable garden now that you’ve mastered the herbs? Create a vibrant vegetable garden with our helpful guide.