Making a herb garden

There’s something deeply satisfying about stepping outside and picking your own herbs – whether it’s a handful of parsley for dinner, a sprig of thyme for tea, or petals from marigolds for a homemade face cream. Creating a dedicated herb patch turns your garden into a space that’s not only beautiful but also practical, calming, and full of life.

At Elmwood Nursery & Garden Centre in Emersons Green, we’ve got everything you need to get started – from plants and compost to design inspiration. Here are two stylish and functional ways to grow your own herb garden:

Formal Herb Gardens

Channel your inner monastic gardener and go for a timeless, structured look. Traditional herb gardens are often designed in symmetrical patterns, which are surprisingly easy to recreate.

  1. Mark out a circle or square
  2. Divide it into geometric sections – diamonds, L-shapes or wedges
  3. Add a central feature like a decorative pot or sundial
  4. Use paving or gravel paths to give the design structure and easy access

Herb Spirals

For something a little more modern and space-efficient, try a herb spiral. Stack bricks, stones or wooden boards into a gentle spiral shape, rising to around 80cm tall. Fill with soil and plant as you go.

  • The top stays dry and sunny – ideal for Mediterranean herbs like rosemary and thyme
  • The base retains more moisture – perfect for mint, parsley or chives
  • Plus, it creates a stunning focal point and a beautiful cascading effect

Whether you have a full garden, a small backyard, or even a balcony, you can grow herbs in a way that suits your space and your lifestyle.

Come visit us in Emersons Green for expert advice, starter plants and everything you need to grow a herb garden that’s as gorgeous as it is useful.

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