Herbs for exposed areas

[ginger71]

Hi

We have just been given a large patch of ground to grow herbs in . it is very exposed and close to the sea. Any suggestions on what can be grown would be welcome

thanks

Paul

[andrewo]

Problem is that it is close to the sea and the spray will kill most plants. I would try thyme as it is low growing, even samphire or sea kale. I would avoid rosemary, and most of the other med herbs as they will die. Go for a sea kale bed, not a herb but a great veg and can be forced, thus protected. Or a thyme lawn or look at sheltering the spot somehow with a natural windbreak.

[JennieAtkinson]

Hello Ginger and welcome to the Vine. I have a very exposed garden site, and I do not have any luck with herbs without some cover or protection. It is not just the salt in the air, but the strength of the wind. Herbs do seem to be quite "soft" and it just turns them black!

[mrs potato head]

Hello Ginger
My first plot was almost clifftop on a blowy bit of the North Cornwall coast.
I had no problem growing herbs, sage did well as did thyme Garlic was vey happy.
Bay survived well in pots. Parsley etc,etc,etc.
I found the trick with my growing,( especially if you consider veggies) was to stick close to the ground nothing to tall. Dwarf varieties.
Any way have full with your ground and good luck.
L

[ginger71]

Hi

Thanks every one for your comments, they are really usefull. I will stick with low stuff and see what i succeed with.

Thanks

Paul

[stigoftheplot]

I'm quite close to the sea too & dont have any problems with herbs. Rosemary is doing nicely, parsley & thyme ok, also have chives, lemon sorrel, lemon balm, basil. I've just bought feverfew & oregano which are still in their pots but surviving. Give them a bit of shelter if on a windy site & dont feed them too much, I've heard poor soil is better. Good luck.