Planting a Winter Herb Pot
As the temperatures gradually become cooler, the tender varieties of herbs, like Coriander and Basil, are beginning to fade.
So, a container full of hardier varieties of herbs on the patio or outside the kitchen door will not only make a colorful, aromatic display but also provide a tasty addition for flavoring Winter meals.
Choosing the Right Herbs for Winter
Planting three or four different herbs in a large container with plenty of drainage holes is much easier to maintain than several herbs in smaller pots and will look more attractive. Herbs prefer a free-draining soil with some grit added to the compost. The plants will need frequent light watering, and a covering of gravel will help retain moisture.
Three herbs that are guaranteed to make a great combination and a colorful display all Winter are Oregano, Thyme, and Sage, all of which are evergreen.
Herb Varieties for a Thriving Winter Pot
Thyme is drought-tolerant, very easy to grow, and available in several different tasty, aromatic varieties. Try Common Thyme (Thymus vulgaris), with grey-green leaves and an abundance of dainty pale mauve flowers. The Lemon Thyme (Thymus citriodorus ‘Aureus’) variety has variegated green and lemon leaves with a delicious lemony scent and pretty pink flowers. This variety of Thyme is a flavorsome addition to sweet dishes or a reviving herbal tea.
Sage, with its velvety thick grey leaves and violet, blue, or white flowers, is a member of the Salvia family. Its leaves add an intriguing, slightly sweet/sour taste to savory recipes.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) has a strong, distinctive aroma and flavor. It can be used sparingly to spice up various dishes, from pizzas and pastas to chicken and meat dishes.
Strongly aromatic Rosemary can be grown either with other herbs or as a specimen plant. The popular Tuscan Blue is a compact and attractive variety. A hard pruning during Summer will help keep it in good shape.
