10 Must-Have Garden Herbs: Growing, Harvesting, and Uses
A flourishing herb garden is a treasure trove of culinary, medicinal, and ornamental delights. Whether grown in pots or garden beds, herbs add fragrance, flavour, and beauty to any space. Of course the well known herbs such as Lavender, used for it's relaxing properties, Sage for sore throats, Thyme for it's anti microbial properties and Rosemary which boosts cerebral circulation are fantastic additions to any herb garden and can be raised in pots as well as in the garden but here we will explore ten more of my favourites : Calendula, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Marshmallow, Echinacea, Vervain, Scullcap, Milk thistle, Yarrow, and Elecampane, including their species, growing conditions, propagation, harvesting, and uses. It really doesn't matter if you have a garden or just a window box or two you can start growing! Some of our other blog posts give more information and recipes for using some of the herbs I have chosen on my list of ten, there are of course many more which I will talk about throughout the year.
To get started, you might want to check out one of my favourite herb suppliers, @earthsongseeds. www.earthsongseeds.co.uk
Did you know that our empty deodorant tubes are perfect for starting seedlings?
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Planting: Sow seeds in early spring directly into well-draining soil after the last frost. Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Propagation: Easily grown from seeds; self-seeds readily. Maintenance: Water moderately; deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Harvesting: Pick flowers throughout the growing season; dry petals for later use. Uses:
Medicinal: Used in salves, creams, and teas to soothe skin irritations, wounds, and digestive issues. Take a look at our Calendula blog to find some recipes!
The Healing Power of Calendula Officinalis: A Natural Remedy for Skin and Health
Culinary: Petals add colour and mild flavour to salads, soups, and rice dishes.
Folklore: Associated with protection, happiness, and healing.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Planting: Sow seeds in early spring in well-drained soil; prefers full sun. Propagation: Grown from seed or division of established plants. Maintenance: Water moderately; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Harvesting: Pick flowers when fully open and dry for teas and infusions. Uses:
Medicinal: Promotes relaxation, improves sleep, aids digestion, and soothes inflammation. Traditionally known as 'The mother of the gut' for it's anti inflammatory action on the digestive system , read more here:
The Healing Power of Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): The Mother of the Gut
Culinary: Floral accent for teas, honey, syrups, and baked goods.
Folklore: Traditionally used for relaxation, purification, and attracting wealth.
Chamomile harvest Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)
Planting: Sow seeds in early spring in moist, well-drained soil; prefers full sun to partial shade. Propagation: Grown from seeds or root divisions. Maintenance: Requires regular watering; thrives in damp, marshy soil. Harvesting: Harvest roots in autumn after the second year; leaves and flowers can be picked in summer. Uses:
Medicinal: Soothes sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues.
Culinary: Historically used to make marshmallow confections; leaves can be added to salads.
Folklore: Associated with love, protection, and healing.
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)
Planting: Sow seeds in spring or autumn in well-drained soil; prefers full sun. Propagation: Grown from seeds or root division. Maintenance: Drought-tolerant; requires little maintenance once established. Harvesting: Roots are harvested in autumn after the second year; flowers and leaves can be picked throughout summer. Uses:
Medicinal: Boosts immunity, helps fight colds, and supports wound healing.
Culinary: Used in teas and tinctures for immune support.
Folklore: Considered a powerful protective and healing herb.
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)
Planting: Sow seeds directly in early spring in well-drained soil; requires full sun. Propagation: Grown from seeds; self-seeds readily. Maintenance: Drought-tolerant; requires little care once established. Harvesting: Seeds are harvested in late summer when the flowers dry out. Uses:
Medicinal: Supports liver health and detoxification.
Culinary: Seeds can be ground into flour or eaten whole; young leaves are edible in salads.
Folklore: Believed to be a sacred herb associated with the Virgin Mary.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Planting: Sow seeds in spring in moist, well-drained soil; grows well in sun or partial shade. It can get quite large and bushy so take care when choosing your planting spot! Propagation: Can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or division. Maintenance: Prune regularly to prevent excessive spreading; water moderately. Harvesting: Pick fresh leaves throughout the season for best flavour. Uses:
Medicinal: Helps relieve stress, anxiety, and digestive discomfort.
Culinary: Adds a citrusy note to teas, salads, desserts, and infused drinks.
Folklore: Associated with love, healing, and happiness.
Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
Planting: Sow seeds in early spring in moist, well-drained soil; prefers full sun to partial shade. Propagation: Grown from seeds or cuttings. Maintenance: Water moderately; prune to encourage bushy growth. Harvesting: Harvest aerial parts in summer when in bloom. Uses:
Medicinal: Traditionally used for relaxation, nervous tension, and liver support.
Culinary: Occasionally used in herbal teas and infusions.
Folklore: Associated with divine inspiration, magic, and protection.
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
Planting: Sow seeds in early spring in moist, well-drained soil; thrives in partial shade. Propagation: Grown from seeds or root division. Maintenance: Keep soil consistently moist; prefers cooler conditions. Harvesting: Aerial parts are harvested in summer when in full bloom. Uses:
Medicinal: Calming herb, supports the nervous system, and relieves anxiety.
Culinary: Occasionally used in teas and tinctures for relaxation.
Folklore: Considered a powerful herb for protection and spiritual clarity.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Planting: Sow seeds in early spring; prefers full sun and dry, well-drained soil. Propagation: Grown from seeds or division. Maintenance: Drought-resistant; prune after blooming to encourage new growth. Harvesting: Cut stems when flowers bloom; dry for medicinal use. Uses:
Medicinal: Stops bleeding, aids digestion, and supports circulation. Read more here:
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): A Versatile Herbal Healer for Skin, Hair, and Wellness
Culinary: Young leaves used in salads and herbal vinegar.
Folklore: Used for divination, protection, and love spells.
Elecampane (Inula helenium)
Planting: Sow seeds in autumn or early spring in rich, moist soil. Propagation: Grown from seeds or root division. Maintenance: Requires consistent moisture; prefers full sun to partial shade. Harvesting: Harvest roots in autumn after the second year for medicinal use. Uses:
Medicinal: Supports respiratory health, soothes coughs, and aids digestion.
Culinary: Used in herbal liqueurs, candies, and syrups.
Folklore: Said to be linked to Helen of Troy, symbolizing beauty and protection.
Whether you are planting a medicinal, culinary, or ornamental herb garden, these ten herbs offer beauty, function, and tradition. Their versatility makes them a must-have for any green space.
Don't forget you can plant our seeded soap labels and cards for a
beautiful splash of colour too!
Happy growing!
Kate x
