6 Tips for a healthy herb garden in the Aussie heat

Summer is synonymous with sunshine, the beach, and holiday mode. However, we can’t deny that the Aussie summer heat is something else entirely. If you have a herb garden or you would like to grow one, you’re probably wondering how it all works in the Aussie heat. Well, there are in fact many things you can do to keep your garden thriving in summer! Read more to find out how.

Why start your own herb garden?

Fresh herbs are a game changer. No matter what you’re cooking, herbs have the power to add a whole other dimension to the dish. Having herbs in your garden will also save you money and time. Not to mention they smell incredible and add beauty to your garden. Herbs are also really easy to grow and require very little space.

So, a herb garden is a great idea, there’s no doubt about that but you’re still wondering about the harsh heat of the Australian Summer… well you’re in luck! There are plenty of herbs that love the sun and can thrive through the Australian heat and the best part is that you can get these herb plants right from your localgarden supplies store, hardware, or grocery! 

What are the best herbs to grow in Australian heat?

There are heaps of sun-loving herbs that are perfect to plant during the summer months. These herbs will give your garden - and your cooking - an upgrade:

Mint - who doesn’t love the sweet, spicy, and refreshing smell of mint? Mint is such a great addition to your garden especially during summer. This herb can be used for savoury meals, sweet meals and are especially perfect for a delicious cocktail or refreshing G&T.

Basil -summer is a great time to be putting in a couple of basil plants as they can grow under the hot Australian sun. Regular basil, Thai or purple varieties are a great option. Remember, basil will not love cold winter temperatures so enjoy your basil whilst it lasts.

Oregano -oregano is the signature herb in many dishes like pasta and chimichurri and is also a terrific ingredient in soups and braises. Oregano is very easy to grow, and as it's a perennial, meaning it will keep coming back every year.

Parsley -is one of the most versatile herbs to include in your garden. You can plant it between other veggies, or let them grow in a pot. Flat leaf parsley or curly varieties are among the popular choices. Just remember that once it's gone to seed in the spring it needs to be pulled out and replanted again next summer.

Coriander -also known as cilantro, is an herb that has a strong flavour - often likened to that of lemon and ginger - and is used as both a garnish and a flavour in dishes. Unlike other herbs, you can use every part of coriander, in fact the coriander stalk makes for the perfect addition to your beef hot pot, or spicy soup. 

Chives -are perennial plants. In the warmer months chives are topped with pink pompom flowers that can be used for salads. 

Sage - is the perfect companion to rich dishes because of its strong flavour and fragrance. To get the most out of sage, place a single leaf under a pork chop and grill it over a medium heat.

How to care for herbs during summer?

Whatever temperatures the lovely summer brings, you can still give your plants the TLC they need throughout the season. Beat the heat with these helpful tips:

1. Water your plants regularly.

Your main challenge during summer is to keep the roots cool. Whilst it can be a common notion that a hotter temperature means a thirstier plant, it's actually crucial to ensure you’re not overwatering your plants. Always check the soil’s moisture levels and water deep. How do you “water deep”?

• For container gardens, drench the soil until water drains from the bottom for 2 minutes.
• For in-ground gardens, drench the soil for 15 minutes.

2. Refrain from using fertilizer.

As root systems of plants suffer in high heat during summer, absorbing fertilizer can do further damage. If you must, use a straight compost and low-nitrogen (numbers less than 3) organic fertilizers. Avoid using organic fertilizers that contain manure, fish or blood, because those contain salts, which can cause heat stress to plants.

3. Know when to water.

Whilst it may seem like a good idea to give your plants a little midday spray, think again. Water droplets on your herb’s leaves act as mini magnifying glasses, amplifying the sun’s rays which can burn them more. Instead, do your deep watering at the end of the day, when the sun is setting, and temperatures are cooler.

4. Prepare for a heatwave.

Indoor plants are susceptible to damage from heat, and if too severely damaged, might not recover. Help your herbs survive extreme heat by keeping watch of the weather and thoroughly watering your garden even before the heatwave hits. This will give your plant friends what they need to thrive!

5. Keep pruning.

Warm temperatures are the perfect condition for herbs to flower and bolt. However, bolting negatively impacts the flavour and texture of some herbs. Prevent your plant from bolting by regularly pruning new growth and removing any flowers immediately.

6. Container plants

One of the many perks of container gardens is that if a location proves to be too hot for your herbs, you can easily relocate! However, you might want to get a pot that’s large enough for your plants. Avoid planting your herbs in dark or metal containers as they can absorb the sun’s rays and in turn, heat up the soil. Make sure both pots have good drainage - plants drown in standing water, even when it’s hot.

If you have any more questions or queries regarding plants, gardening supplies, plant support or of course veggie gardens, visit us in-store at Brookies Rural Traders for a chat! We would love to see you.