Herb Micro-Ecosystem

This section describes the biochemical and physical requirements needed to grow high-quality organic herbs in containers.  Although consisting of the same components as the vegetable Micro-ecosystem, it is easier to establish and consists of the following elements.

Light

Herbs require a minimum of six to eight hours of sunlight , which helps them grow and produce rich and varied oils with delicious aromas and flavours. 

Soil

Most herbs are highly adaptable and happy to live in a wide range of soils; however, most herbs prefer neutral or slightly alkaline soil. Ideal herb conditions are similar to that used in raised beds, well-drained but moist and mulched soil, and full sun for at least a portion of the day, which is the situation in my raised bed gardens.  Hence I use the same raised bed soil structure in the herb containers. Since root growth is restricted in containers, I review the soil structure annually since annual repotting may be necessary for herbs with abundant root growth, especially mint.

Water

Plants require watering more frequently than those grown in a garden because the soil dries out faster in containers.  In hot weather, the soil must be kept moist but never wet. Therefore, during the height of the growing season, herbs like basil and parsley require daily watering. However, rosemary and thyme are perfectly content with dry conditions, but if the plants become scorched, there's a high risk of plant damage when watered again because caking the soil puts herbs in danger. I have overcome these difficulties and variances by using soakers in my containers linked to my automated irrigation system and supplying all herbs with five minutes of water three times per day.

Fertilizing

Regular fertilizing with liquid fertilizer is necessary because frequent watering dilutes nutrients in the soil. They respond well to regular feeds during the growing season — but it'll go to waste if you add fertilizer while they're dormant. Low nitrogen fertilizers are best.  Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers, which risks encouraging sap growth and can spoil the flavour and aroma of herbs. 

Pruning

Potted herbs lose form more rapidly than those living in the ground. I regularly clip plants to keep them compact and not go to seed to counteract this. However, it's crucial not to remove more than a fifth of the herb's foliage in one go.