Think winter’s too cold for herbs? Think again.

Several hardy favourites not only survive the chill but actually thrive in it. Whether you’ve got a sunny balcony, a kitchen windowsill or a full garden bed, there’s no reason to put your herb garden on pause. And with National Herb and Spice Day commemorated on 10 June, there’s no better time to start planting! 

Here are some top winter growers and handy tips for preserving them too: 

Thyme

This little herb is tougher than it looks. It handles the cold with ease, making it a great choice for winter, especially in dry inland areas. Plant it in well-draining soil and a sunny spot, and it’ll keep delivering flavour all season long. 

Pair it with: Oregano and sage, which enjoy the same dry and sunny growing conditions. 

Sage

Sage loves cooler weather and looks just as good as it tastes. Its soft, grey-green leaves add texture to your garden, and its earthy flavour is perfect in warm winter dishes. Give it full sun, good drainage, and don’t be surprised if the leaves are a bit smaller than in summer. 

Pair it with: Rosemary, lemon balm or fennel for a mixed pot full of winter-friendly herbs. 

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Mint

Mint doesn’t mind the cold, but it does like a drink. In the Western Cape, winter rains do the job for you. In drier areas, water is just enough to keep the soil moist. Mint spreads fast, so grow it in a container if you don’t want it taking over. 

Top tip: It doesn’t play well with other herbs, but it’s great planted near brassicas like cabbage and kale to help keep pests away. 

Oregano

Hardy and low maintenance, oregano brings that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma to your garden and your kitchen. It stands up to frost and even helps repel aphids from nearby plants. Not bad for a plant that asks for very little in return. 

Pair it with: Parsley or rosemary for a fragrant and easy-care herb patch. 

Rosemary

Nothing says winter like a roast with rosemary. This woody herb enjoys full sun and dry soil, so let the soil dry out between waterings. It’s drought-tolerant and happy in a pot on a sunny stoep or windowsill. 

Pair it with: Just about anything – it gets along with all the other winter herbs! 

How to dry herbs for your spice rack

Growing herbs is one thing – keeping them stocked in your kitchen all year is another. Drying your herbs is simple and doesn’t need fancy equipment: 

  • Tie small bunches of herbs together and hang them upside down in a warm, dry spot with good airflow. 
  • Once dry, crumble the leaves and store them in a clean glass jar. 
  • Keep the jars in a dark cupboard to help them last longer. 

So, while the garden might look a little sleepier in winter, your herb patch doesn’t have to.

With the right picks and a little care, you’ll have plenty of flavour on hand, fresh or dried, all through the colder months. 

ALSO SEE: THE BEST HERBS AND PLANTS TO GROW FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH

The best herbs and plants to grow for women’s health

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