Page 23 - SilverLakes_Issue 2_2022

GARDENING

HERBS FOR YOUR GARDEN

By Elize Malan

erb lovers usually plant their herb
garden with a wide variety of small
Hherb plants. The garden is then
treated similarly to a vegetable garden and
needs regular attention. A large percentage
of the plants are annuals and have to be
replaced when the season ends, often
without ever being harvested. Parsley
The flat-leaved parsley can be used in the
Why waste time and space on herbs that you same way as moss curled parsley. The plant
do not use? Rather, incorporate the herbs in Rosemary is biennial (lives two years) and it prefers
your garden design. The following are some Planted as a hedge, the upright-growing full sun and fairly rich, moist soil. The moss
of the species that are low maintenance and Rosmarinus officinalis will grow to one curled parsley looks beautiful planted as a
do not have to be replaced annually: metre. It will benefit from regular clipping. border around a rose garden or as edging for
flower beds, and it will keep the flowers free
Thyme The grey-green foliage is evergreen and the of insects.
Thyme pairs well with meats of all kinds, flowers attract bees and butterflies. The
as well as vegetables and pastas. The herb plant needs full sun, tolerates dry conditions Bay tree
will add layers of flavour without being and is cold-resistant. The leaves can be used fresh or dried to
overwhelming. There are many varieties flavour savoury dishes. They’re also excellent
available, and you can choose between Chives for marinades, sauces, stuffing and curries. A
planting a groundcover with Creeping Thyme They belong to the same family as onions. dried bay leaf sprig placed in flour will keep
(Thymus serpyllum) or creating a border with The garlic chive (Allium tuberosum) is superb weevils away.
Thymus vulgaris or Lemon Thyme. for stir-fries and is delicious with egg and
cheese dishes. This slender, evergreen tree likes full sun
The plant is perennial. It requires full sun and and will need some winter protection in cold
adequate water. It will tolerate cold winters The plants are perennial and will grow to a areas. Although slow growing, it can reach a
and is a natural insect repellent. height of 25cm. The attractive flowers appear height of 7m.
in summer and can be picked for salads.
The dark-green, glossy leaves of Laurus
Although full sun is best, they will tolerate nobilis make it an attractive addition to any
some shade. In areas with heavy frost, they garden.
go dormant and die down in winter but will
regrow in spring.

Thyme

Rosemary Bay tree
The leaves are a delicious flavouring for lamb
as well as for bean and tomato dishes. For Tel: 012 804 1807
something different, add a few leaves to Chives Fax: 012 804 0278
Web: www.garden-group.co.za
shortbread biscuits before baking. Email: admin@garden-group.co.za
Parsley
The varieties available are astonishing. This is the one herb no garden should be
Plant Rosemary (Rosmarinus prostratus) without. Well known as a garnish, it will
as your groundcover. It is a flat-growing add a delightful taste to soups and stews.
perennial, ideal for hanging baskets or Sprinkle this nutritious herb on vegetables
embankments. before serving or mix into cream cheese.

INTRAMUROS MARCH 2022 | 21