Cook's window box from 'Gifts From The Garden' by Debora Robertson Pizza window box
- 1 small rocket plant
- 1 small basil plant
- 1 small oregano plant
- 1 small chilli plant
- 1 small cherry tomato plant
Thai window box
- 1 small lemon grass plant
- 1 small mint plant
- 1 small coriander plant
- 1 small Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum horapa) and/or Holy basil (O. sanctum) plant
- 1 small chilli plant
Fines herbes window box
- 1 small chervil plant
- 1 small tarragon plant
- 1 small parsley plant
- 1 small chives plant
You will need
- Window box, or other suitable container
- Broken crocks or pebbles
- Compost
- Slow-release fertiliser granules
How to make
If you’re not using a window box, make sure that the container you’re using has some drainage holes in the base. Add some broken crocks or pebbles to the bottom and fill with compost mixed with slow-release fertilizer granules, according to the instructions on the packet. Plant up with the chosen herbs and water them in well.
A well-cared-for window box should last all summer.
Packaging idea
To make your planter an even more special gift, write out a card with care instructions for the herbs and tie it to the handle of some secateurs or a watering can with a pretty ribbon, garden string or raffia.
Growing rocket
Rocket, Rucola coltivata, is not only delicious scattered fresh over a just-out-of-the-oven pizza, but it’s also great in fiery summer salads and can be whizzed into a sprightly pesto.
It’s very easy to grow from seed. Sow thinly directly into the ground or pot. It can run to seed quite quickly, so keep cutting at it and ensure it’s well watered.
Gifts From The Garden
Containing more than 100 projects that use the gardener's bounty throughout the seasons, Gifts From The Garden is divided into 'Flowers and Herbs' and 'Fruit and Vegetables'. Discover how to make edible gifts, gifts for the home and gifts to enhance wellbeing. Published by Kyle Cathie priced £16.99. Buy this book at a discount from Saga Bookshop.