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08 Jan 15 Annette (Australia - temperate climate)

Hi. I am an absolute herb growing virgin so any advice would be greatly appreciated. My question is, I want to start a vertical garden outside my kitchen window, where it will get full sun all morning and into the early afternoon as well. Ive read that basil can be quite a large bush. Is it possible to grow it in tubs on a vertical garden?

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18 Jan 15 Ferran (Australia - temperate climate)

Basil would be best grown in medium sized pots at the base of a vertical garden as it is a bush herb and you are correct that it will grow large. If your tubs have reasonable clearance it still maybe possible however large plants also have large root systems so the tubs would have to be large. Dill and fennel may also require pots. Running herbs such as oregano, marjoram, mint and thyme will do well in a vertical garden. In most vertical gardens parsley, coriander and spring onions will also work well. Most Herbs thrive with lots of water and vertical gardens risk drying out so make sure to keep it well watered. In the long term remember to replenish the soil of your vertical garden. Starting small compost from kitchen scraps if you don’t have one already would be good. Basil is a hungry plant and will want lots of yummy compost. Also keep in mind that the running herbs like to take over so ensure they are separated or harvested often enough to keep them in check. Growing herbs is very rewarding. Good luck in your herb gardening endeavours.

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