Here at THUD, we absolutely love our herbs. We believe that every meal you cook should be packed full of the freshest herbs to really bring out the flavours and textures of the other ingredients. It can be difficult to source truly fresh and unique herbs, as many of us simply don’t have the space to grow our own delicious herbs.

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But have no fear my herb loving friends! Use this blog post as your ultimate herb growing cheatsheet, whether you have ample outdoor space or are confined to city living. We’ve chosen 5 of our favourite herbs that can thrive indoors and 5 perfectly paired recipes that you can make with your newly grown herbs too.

Don’t forget, there are 3 common misconceptions at the end of the blog post to avoid when growing your very own herbs that we thought you should know.

1. Grow your own Basil

Basil is such a versatile herb and the perfect addition to an endless array of dishes. It thrives in soil that is rich and well drained. We find that the best option is to grow basil in a pot, as this allows you to regulate its growth and monitor progress. 

Basil needs full sun, so make sure your pot of basil is in direct sunlight. Think about the best spot in your home that has the most sunlight and consider having your basil outdoors in the warmer months. To promote a bushy and healthy plant, cut the tips regularly. 

Delicious recipe to use basil in: Wild Garlic Leaf Pesto Pasta

2. Grow your own Oregano

Many claim that Oregano is one of the most low-maintenance herbs to grow. That sounds like music to our busy ears! The good news is that oregano performs well both in the garden or indoors.

It thrives in a warm climate and performs best in part to full sun, but you can really taste intense flavours after the herb has had a day full of sun. Make sure your oregano is in a spot in your home that does have regular access to sun (did you hear that British weather?) and is watered regularly.

Delicious recipe to use oregano in: Red Lentil Stew with Hasselback Potatoes

3. Grow your own Coriander 

Coriander is a beautifully fragrant herb that finds itself in many spicy dishes. Unlike our previous two herbs, coriander can actually struggle if it sees the sun all day. Try and find a spot in your home that ensures it can be in the shade during midday.

Coriander grows quite deep, so ensure you have a large enough pot for this one. Finally, make sure that the soil never dries out as coriander does not like drought-like conditions.

Delicious recipe to use coriander in: Kale and Sweet Potato Tacos

4. Grow your own Mint 

Mint is one of the most popular and versatile herbs, because it can be used for both sweet and savoury dishes, not mention in a refreshing mojito!  Many people love the sweet aroma of mint, so it only makes sense to include it on our list. However, you’ve been warned that mint can run wild in gardens, so growing it in a pot is often the best option.

Mint needs rich, moist soils, so make sure you don’t fall behind on your watering duties. Try and find a warm and sun filled spot for the early parts of the day. Mint is less dependent on sunlight than other herbs, but do make sure they are in direct sunlight for a part of the day. 

Delicious recipe to use mint in: Moroccan Couscous

5. Grow your own Parsley

Parsley is a unique herb that actually offers two different varieties: curly leaf and flatleaf. Both varieties can be used interchangeably, however do take note that flatleaf is often stronger in flavour.

Both varieties of parsley love neutral-alkaline soils and thrive in sun or partial shade. In both curly leaf and flat leaf varieties, there is loads of flavour in the stalk as in the leaf. Feel free to use the entirety of the herb in your cooking.

Delicious recipe to use parsley in: ‘Shroom Pasta with Gremolata

3 common mistakes to avoid when growing your own herbs 

• DON’T water your herbs like you do your houseplants. Instead, water herbs a moderate amount every day and make sure not to overwater! 
• DON’T take the leaves from the wrong place on the plant. Pick the leaves from the top and leave the larger leafs at the bottom to sustain future growth.
• DO cut and trim your plants early and often. This helps with regrowth and soon enough your home will be filled with a delicious aroma!

Fresh herbs right through your letterbox

Every THUD box includes all of the freshest herbs you need to make the various recipes included in the box. Our herbs are sourced from top suppliers to London chefs and are hand picked to ensure you get the freshest, most fragrant and delicious herbs for your meals. Order your own THUD box from as little as £2.50 per meal and have fresh veg, herbs and spices delivered straight through your letterbox.