Just because the weather is cooling down doesn’t mean your garden has to go to sleep. In fact, some herbs love the chill. Now is the perfect time to sow cool-season favourites like coriander, dill, parsley, and chervil. These herbs thrive in the mild, moist conditions of autumn and early winter, bringing fresh, vibrant flavour to your seasonal cooking.
Why Grow Winter Herbs?
Cool-season herbs grow best when the heat of summer has passed. They’re less likely to bolt (go to seed too early), and they offer a continuous harvest when other plants are taking a rest. Plus, their delicate flavours – think of coriander’s citrusy zing or parsley’s clean, peppery bite – can really brighten up hearty winter dishes.
How to Start from Seed
Starting herbs from seed is easy, rewarding, and cost-effective. Here’s how to do it right:
- Choose the Right Pots & Soil
- Use small, clean pots or seed trays with premium seed-raising mix.
- This fine, free-draining mix gives seeds the best chance to sprout strong.
- Sow the Seeds
- Sprinkle the seeds lightly over the surface.
- Cover them with a fine layer of seed mix—just enough to keep them cozy.
- Water Gently
- Mist with a spray bottle or water with a fine rose to avoid disturbing the seeds.
- Keep the mix consistently moist but not soggy.
- Give Them Light & Love
- Place pots in a cool, bright spot—an outdoor table, windowsill, or patio is perfect.
- As soon as seedlings appear, make sure they get plenty of light. Morning sun is ideal.
- Feed for Strength: Once your seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, start feeding them weekly with a liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength.
Potting Up or Planting Out
When your herb seedlings look strong and healthy:
- Transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.
- Choose a sunny spot with good drainage, and water them in well.
- Add mulch to protect their roots and keep moisture in.
Harvest Tips
- Pick leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth.
- Always leave a few leaves at the base so the plant can keep producing.
In the Kitchen
These winter herbs are incredibly versatile:
- Coriander: Add to curries, soups, or sprinkle over roasted veggies.
- Dill: Perfect with potatoes, fish, or homemade dips.
- Parsley: A kitchen staple—use in just about everything!
- Chervil: A delicate herb for omelettes, creamy soups, or salad greens.
Growing herbs in winter is a beautiful way to stay connected with your garden through the cooler months. Even a few pots on a sunny balcony or kitchen windowsill can bring joy, fragrance, and fresh flavour to your day. So go ahead, sow cool-season herbs now and enjoy the gift of homegrown greens all winter long.