Gardening Tips..

 Growing Conditions- The use of manure or compost

Most herb plants will grow on most soils and indeed many prefer poor soil. Do not be over generous with nitrogen containing fertilisers such as manure or rich compost as these promote leaf growth and can lead to lush and tender leaves. They will be more susceptible to frost, wind damage and to insect attack and will also not have the best flavour. Apart from use as a mulch around comfrey , angelica and the larger leafy plants which prefer damp conditions, save your compost to go on your vegetable plot.

 
 Many of the culinary herbs prefer alkaline soils
If your soil is acidic, i.e. is peaty or acidic from over use of manure, then fork in limestone or dolomite.. Don't use builders lime as this is very strong and may do more damage than good. Its a good idea to prepare a "chalky" bed well in advance of planting out which would be the ideal place for your thymes and marjorams.
If your garden is naturally damp, then try to find a raised well drained area, and fork in coarse sand or grit. As you will see through the catalogue, many herbs prefer dry conditions, you will also find they will suffer a harsh winter more readily if their feet are not in water.