Allotment Herb Plot - Germinating herbs

Most herbs can easily be grown from seed, but in colder climates it is best to germinate them indoors before transplanting them outside into your home garden or allotment . I would certainly recommend growing herbs from seeds, you can really  enjoy the satisfaction that comes from being a part of the entire life cycle of these wonderful plants. If you are blessed with a warm enough climate to plant straight outside then be sure to plant into well-drained soil. Herbs don't have a deep root base so be sure not to cover with too much soil. Herbs like fennel, dill, anise, and coriander should be planted directly into the garden/allotment as they do not transplant well.
More soon on different varieties and uses of herbs
See you soon
Sandkat xx

How to Grow Allotment Herbs

Now your herb garden is ready to sow.  While the winter is still in full swing you have got time to begin planning the herb garden varieties of your choice.  It's nice to experiment but here is a list of some of the types which will thrive well in the British weather.

Basil, Tarragon, Chervill, Chives, Coriander (my absolute favorite), Thyme, Lovage, Fennel
Rosemary, Dill, Parsley, Bay, Lemon Balm

You can, of course, buy young plants that have been raised in the garden centre, but there is a great deal more pleasure to be derived from taking your plants from seedlings you have propogated yourself and, it goes without saying, it is by far the cheaper option.                      

Getting started on your herb garden

So once you have selected a sunny, well drained spot which is well away from trampling feet, begin by clearing away any weeds before thoroughly digging the site over.
Next, incorporate some horticultural grit. Dig this well in as it is an essential element as most of the herbs you will be growing are used to Mediterranean type conditions.
Once the soil has dried and is easily workable start to rake it well. Ensure you remove any large stones or solid clumps of soil and roots. Next apply a little pressure to the plot with the sole of your boots this will eliminate any air pockets. Rake over again gently.

Next step coming soon.
Sandkat xx

Allotment Herb Plot

Hello allotment enthusiasts.
This is my second blog which will be part of a series of blogs an various subjects to help you take a step by step approach to allotment gardening.
In this blog I intend to cover growing herbs on your allotment although most of it will equally apply to growing quality herbs in your back garden.
To start I am going to go through some very easy steps to help you grow a good variety of useful herbs mainly for the kitchen, that will be of good quality and will be a pleasure to grow.
If an allotment is being worked thoroughly it will be teaming with vegetable area and be full of activity when the new season starts. Therefore, to prevent uneccessary damage to your herb garden - herbs can be fragile things - they are best in a raised bed to protect them but this is not absolutely necessary. However, if you already have something available or feel inclined to prepare a separate area surrounded by brick, wood or even stone, this is an excellent starting point.
If your allotment is newly aquired - one of your first steps will be to plan everything and where it will be situated before you begin anything. Assuming your allotment is set and this will be a new project, lets have alook at the situation for your herb plot. Select a sunny, well drained area and ensure you have worked the soil well in preparation for the herb bed.
More to follow...
Please see my other blog for "beginners guide to allotmens".
http://beginnersguidetoallotments.blogspot.com