Herb Growing and Pruning Tips

As a gardener who’s been nurturing herbs for years, I can attest to the fact that there’s always something new to learn about growing and pruning herbs. Today, I want to share practical tips that have worked for me. Let’s delve into some practical tips gained from tending my herb patch that might inspire your gardening routine.

Water Wisely

Herbs generally don’t like soggy roots and prefer well-drained soil. They don’t like to sit in overly moist ground. Whether it’s spring, summer, or fall, watering early in the morning is best. This lets the soil soak up moisture and gives leaves time to dry, reducing the onset of fungal diseases.

Feed Your Herbs

Herbs aren’t heavy feeders, but a light application of balanced organic fertilizer or compost every few weeks keeps them happy and thriving. I still remember my thyme beds looked a bit tired one time until I sprinkled some compost—they perked right up in no time. 

Why Prune?

Pruning is an essential gardening practice that encourages new growth and keeps your garden tidy, while also preventing flowering for some herbs. For example, basil often tastes best before it flowers. Once it blooms, the leaves can turn bitter. 

Think of pruning as a haircut for your herbs to look their best with healthy growth. It also keeps them productive and prevents them from bolting or becoming woody. As fall approaches, this is the transitional season when many herbs slow down or go dormant, while it’s also an excellent time to care for your plants and prepare for next year.

Pruning Different Herbs

Basil: Pinch off the top two sets of leaves regularly. I usually prune my basil every week or so. When flowers start appearing, snip them immediately to keep the leaves tasting sweet.

Thyme and Oregano: After a good harvest, trim these back by about a third to encourage more growth.

Rosemary: This woody herb benefits from light trimming. Cut just above a leaf node, and avoid cutting into wood, as it doesn’t regrow easily from there.

Mint: It grows vigorously, so prune often to keep it from taking over. I once let my mint plant run wild and had to dig up half my garden bed to contain it!

Herb Pruning Anecdotes

I once experimented with pruning a different herb every week to make fresh pesto, herbal tea, or a garnish. It kept the garden lively and my kitchen creative. I started with basil pesto one week, rosemary roasted potatoes the next, and thyme in lemon water after that. The herbs loved this experimentation, and so did my taste buds.

Another time, my oregano started flowering mid-July, and I almost let these purple blossoms go. Remembering that pruning boosts flavor, I snipped the blooms and discovered that the leaves became more aromatic and robust. A win-win!

Herb Combinations

I love combining herbs to create unique flavors and aromas. Here are a few of my favorite herb combinations for amazing homemade meals to enjoy. 

Classic Pesto: Basil, garlic, lemon, and parmesan – these are always crowd-pleasers. 

Grilled Chicken Rub: Combine rosemary, thyme, and garlic to create a savory rub for your grilled chicken.

Final Thoughts

With a bit of mindful watering, fertilizing, and regular pruning, your herbs will reward you with abundant and flavorful leaves all season. So grab your pruning shears and keep those garden herbs thriving!