Grow aromatic plants in pot

Within easy reach for cooking, pots of aromatic plants on a windowsill will also keep flying insects at bay. Dual advantages!

How to choose and install
Whatever the site you can offer to your pots, there will always be at least one or even two aromatic plants which will thrive in it. In a sunny spot, go for Mediterranean aromatic plants which need a free draining soil to let water run out (see below). In a shady site, prefer aromatic plants which only live one season or the ones which naturally like water. Those plants can thrive even without sun, although their fragrance can be modified if they receive less sun. Do not forget the decorative aspect of plants: all can be grown with other varieties in order to create a beautiful display, providing that they all share the same requirements regarding light and water.

Short- lived aromatic plants
Basil, Marjoram (not to be mistaken for Oregano, which lives several years), Parsley, Coriander and Dill only live for a few month and die after blossoming. Grow them like short- lived perennials in pots of 1 to 2 litres, in rich compost. Choose a pot which is deeper than it is wide as their roots like to grow deep into the pot. Water them as soon as the soil dries out on the surface. Harvest the leaves regularly even if it means that you have to deep freeze them, before autumn turns up and they go to seeds. Do not give them any fertiliser: this will only make them suffer instead of encouraging growth.

Aromatic Plants which need free-draining soil
Most of the aromatic plants belong to this category like Thyme, Sage, Rosemary, Bay Laurel, Savory and Oregano. Providing they are grown in a sunny spot and a suitable soil, you will be able to enjoy their flavour for several years. Grow them in a pot of at least 1 l (for Thyme), up to 5 l (for Rosemary and Bay Laurel). For Mediterranean aromatic plants, prefer a compost which is not too rich. Do not water excessively and do not let a saucer under the pot. Cut the stems regularly from April right through to September to enjoy fresh leaves.

Aromatic Plants which require humidity
A pretty container and lots of water: that is all that is needed for plants like Mint, garden Lovage (or ‘Alpine Lovage’) or Chives to thrive throughout the entire summer! The bigger the pot, the less watering it needs. Therefore, do not grow them in small pots. You only need to choose a pot which retains moisture such as a pot with an integrated saucer or water-reserve. As soon as the Mint has been planted, water copiously. If the pot has not got any draining holes, you must have only 1cm of water left at the bottom. The soil must not dry out in its depth but these aromatic plants do not like either having their roots standing in water for more than a few days. This affects their fragrance which becomes less aromatic. You can cut the foliage right back if it shows any signs of weakness: It grows back straightaway.