malvernmugadzikwa
Andrew Mangwarara
THIS week, we visited a private residence in Belvedere, Harare, where I witnessed how herbs can transform a garden.
Herbs offer a healthy alternative for treating various bodily ailments, making them a valuable addition to any garden.
Beyond their medicinal properties, herbs have an aesthetic dimension that can enhance a garden’s appearance. They add colour, intricate textures and stimulating scents. Moreover, herbs attract beneficial butterflies and bees to a garden.
Since herbs can be easily plucked for kitchen use, consider planting them strategically near your home.
Choose from a wide array of options like rosemary, garlic chives, oregano, pineapple sage, lemon grass and lemon verbena.
When landscaping with herbs, select varieties that suit your soil and climate.
For instance, lavender and rosemary thrive in hot, dry conditions, while mint and parsley prefer cooler, shadier spots.
By choosing suitable herbs, you will ensure they flourish in your garden and enhance your landscape. The next step is to choose a design.
In this case, the property owner opted for a brick-laid bedding arrangement.
The beds are shaped geometrically to create a unique design.
You can mix herbs to come up with appealing colour and height combinations.
Incorporate hanging baskets and containers as additional design elements.
Herbs offer a sustainable landscaping option.
They naturally repel pests and many have medicinal properties to treat common ailments.
Most herbs require less water.
This helps to reduce your water consumption.
Due to their versatility, herbs can be trained into various shapes and patterns, adding visual interest.
Remember, herbs can be annuals or perennials, evergreen or deciduous.
As with other plants, ensure the soil is fertile, well-drained and disease-free before planting herbs for a visually appealing garden.
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