Create a Kitchen Garden

Well, I’m not sure about you but here in Australia our home has been quite like episodes of The Good Life, remember that UK sitcom back in the 70’s? When the Goods gave up their jobs and tried to live sustainably and for free from their back garden? Well folks, at this crazy point in time, we like many I reckon have been giving that idea a go, and like the Goods it’s been a bit of an intrepidation.

We’ve been growing vegetables, herbs, fruit and my husband’s been making batches of beer. Learning new skills is certainly a positive side of Lockdown, and I have to say a very rewarding one too.

There is simply nothing like going back to nature to refocus on life, keep things in perspective, stay positive and refresh your mind, body and soul. It’s an instant de-stresser and its scientifically proven to be very good for our health.

Last year I tried growing a medicinal herb garden, it went a bit wild but I never really used the plants, so this time I’ve turned to more culinary plants that still have amazing health properties.

Today, in my Heritage English Herb garden I have planted Loveage, Borage, Lime & Lemon Balm, Orange Peel Thyme, Jekka’s Thyme, Lemon Savoury, Chocolate Mint, Peppermint, Giant Red Mustard, Chamomile, Salad Burnett, Pineapple Sage, Sweet Violet, Mexican Tarragon and Orange Bergamot.

I’ve also planted some Spring bulbs and flowers, Freescia’s, Bluebells, Sweet Peas, Foxgloves , Marigolds and Rose Geranium for a spot of happy colour.

So, I’ve been quite a busy bee, as you can see. Being in the garden is so lovely and I really encourage you to give it a go, if you have a garden or even a courtyard, you can still grow plants in pots.

Herbs are probably the best types of plants to start with if you’re new to gardening. They usually take care of themselves and its so nice to be able to go out in the garden and snip some herbs for cooking.

Now, I have to confess I’m no real green thumbs, but I’ve been willing to dive in and give it a go. I do come from a family of avid gardeners past and present, so maybe it’s in the blood somewhere? New lockdown skill number one, tick, or probably more like a work in progress.

So I really encourage you all to turn off the news and head into your garden, your courtyard, your balcony wherever you have created a little green space. It really is the best tonic in this crazy world right now.

Happy Gardening,

Wild for the Wolds