Growing herbs in your kitchen garden is an impeccable way to add the freshest and healthiest produce to your meals. While some herbs have the added advantage of medicinal properties, adding any herb can elevate the taste of your dishes. But the only challenge of expanding your home garden is the upcoming winter season.
If you are looking for safe options that can sustain the colder temperatures, this is just the right article for you. Whether you want to plant coriander to add lip-smacking garnishes to your food or plant the holy herb tulsi, here is a list of the best herbs that you can grow in your kitchen garden this winter season.
Coriander
Coriander, or dhaniya is one of the most essential herbs in Indian cuisine. Be it a simple bowl of khichdi or an elaborate curry, every dish is complete with the garnishing of chopped coriander leaves. If you want an unlimited supply of fresh dhaniya, the winter season is the best time to plant the herb. You can sow them at a sunny spot, water and fertilise regularly, and in just about 3-4 weeks, the leaves will be ready to be harvested.
Pudina
Pudina, also known as mint, is another herb that is known for its cooling and refreshing properties. It can either be grown from seeds or cuttings. Since they prefer moist soil and slightly cooler temperatures, you can plant them at the onset of winter. Also, note that the mint plant can spread quickly, so it is better if you plant it in a container and place the pot in partial shade.
Methi
Fenugreek, or methi, is a popular winter herb in India, known for its slightly bitter, nutty taste. Both the leaves and seeds are used in cooking, adding depth to various dishes. To add it to your kitchen garden, you’ll need well-drained soil and then sow the seeds while maintaining some space between each. With proper maintenance, methi will be ready to be harvested within a month of sowing.
Tulsi
Tulsi is the holy basil that is considered to be auspicious for planting in Indian households. From herbal teas to medicated kadhas, tulsi leaves can be added to your beverages to relieve you from cough and cold, making it valuable in winter. As per the space available, you can plant the seeds of tulsi at a spot which gets 4-6 hours of direct sunlight. Just water it regularly, avoid waterlogging, and pluck some leaves for bushy growth.
Fennel
Fennel, or saunf is a versatile herb that is known for its licorice-like flavour. Just like methi, both fennel seeds and leaves are commonly used in Indian cooking as well as traditional medicine. If you want to plant it in your kitchen garden, all you’ll need to do is directly sow the seeds in well-drained and slightly acidic soil. Once the plant is 10-12 inches high, it’s ready to be harvested.