A Beginner’s Guide to Growing and Using Fresh Herbs
If you’re new to growing your own food, herbs are the perfect place to start. They’re compact, forgiving, fast-growing — and incredibly satisfying. Even a small pot of fresh basil on the windowsill can elevate your cooking, reduce food waste, and save you money on store-bought packets.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything a beginner needs to know about growing and using fresh herbs — including the easiest varieties, how to care for them, and what to do once they’re flourishing.
🌿 Why Grow Your Own Herbs?
- Low effort, big reward
- Space-saving: grow in pots, boxes, windowsills or raised beds
- Continuous harvest: pick and regrow with the right care
- Fresh flavour: far superior to dried or shop-bought options
🌱 Easiest Herbs for Beginners
Start with herbs that are quick to grow and suit UK conditions. These are hardy, forgiving, and versatile in the kitchen.
| Herb | Where to Grow | Best Used In |
|---|---|---|
| Parsley | Partial shade | Soups, salads, green sauces |
| Chives | Sun or shade | Eggs, salads, baked potatoes |
| Mint | Containers only (it spreads!) | Teas, desserts, couscous |
| Basil | Warm, sunny spot | Pasta sauces, pesto |
| Thyme | Dry, sunny borders or pots | Roasts, stews, marinades |
| Rosemary | Larger pots or ground | Roast veg, breads, oils |
🛒 Herb Planter with Drainage (Set of 3)
Ideal for windowsills, balconies or patio tables — keeps herbs contained and healthy.
🧑🌾 How to Grow Fresh Herbs
- Water regularly but avoid waterlogged roots. Pots must have good drainage.
- Pinch out the tops of herbs like basil and mint to encourage bushiness.
- Harvest little and often: don’t strip whole stems — take a few leaves from each plant.
- Feed sparingly: too much fertiliser can reduce flavour.
- Protect from slugs: especially young seedlings in spring.
🛒 Copper Slug Tape for Pots
Natural slug deterrent — perfect for herb pots and containers.
🍴 How to Use Fresh Herbs in the Kitchen
✅ Everyday Ideas:
- Add chopped herbs to scrambled eggs, omelettes or creamy pasta.
- Stir into yogurt or soft cheese for a quick dip or sandwich spread.
- Sprinkle over soups, stews or roast veg at the end for a fresh lift.
🌿 Make:
- Herb butter (soft butter + chopped parsley, thyme or dill)
- Herb oil (blend fresh herbs with olive oil and garlic)
- Pesto (basil, parsley, or rocket + garlic, parmesan, oil, nuts)
🛒 Mini Food Processor
Perfect for small-batch pesto, dressings, and herb sauces.
❄️ How to Store & Preserve Herbs
- Freeze in ice cube trays with olive oil or water
- Dry herbs like oregano, thyme or sage and store in jars
- Make infused vinegars or oils for gifts or flavour bombs
🛒 Ice Cube Trays with Lids – Herb Freezing Friendly
Easy portion control for frozen herbs — perfect for winter use.
🌱 Final Thoughts on Growing and Using Fresh Herbs
You don’t need a garden to grow great herbs — just a pot, a little light, and a pinch of patience. Once you start using your own herbs in meals, you’ll wonder why you ever bought those sad plastic supermarket packs.
Whether you’re planting your first basil or drying your own thyme for winter soups, growing and using fresh herbs is a joyful and practical part of homegrown living.
