Introduction

Information for teachers
Hints on making a garden

Type of herb garden

You may wish to have one or more themes for your garden. See some possibilities on the right.

Choice of site

It needs to be

in sunlight, although some herbs will tolerate a bit of shade
accessible in all weathers
safe and secure

Soil

Ideally the soil should be well drained and light, but herbs will grow in heavier soils. If your soil is wet and heavy, include coarse grit to improve drainage. Or alternatively, build a raised bed, with sides about 30cm high.

Preparing the site

A simple design, based on 4 equal quadrants is shown in the photograph. Slabs were used to divide the beds. Wood planking (unsawn 20cm) was given 2 coats of wood preserver and after drying, was used to form the edges of the site.

Well-rotted garden compost was dug in and the soil raked level. The site had good drainage and so coarse grit was not needed.

Paths around the site would make good all-weather access.

Instructions for making a paths and raised beds can be found in any good garden design book.

If the site is large enough, trellis would make an attractive feature as would seating.

Choice of plants

Always buy from recognised herb growers (British Herb Trade Association) to ensure that the herbs are correctly labelled. They will also offer advice on plant needs and any potential toxicity or allergic reactions. You may also be offered a discount, especially if it is known you are buying for a school herb garden.

Always label plants correctly and clearly, giving a brief description of each if possible.

Maintaining the Herb Garden

Enlist the support of older children who can be trained to be gardeners.
PTA volunteers may help in the initial layout and preparation of the site and could be asked to oversee the general maintenance
Non-teaching staff could supervise small groups to weed and water. Younger children especially enjoy this activity.

Encouraging interest within the school

Show the links within the National Curriculum - see next sheet
Have a whole school assembly with children showing what they have contributed
Use as an outdoor classroom
Use the herbs in cooking sessions or even in the school kitchen!
Take cuttings, pot and sell at school fund-raising activities

Funding

Fund-raising activities in school
Seeking sponsorship

General Safety Advice

Always identify plants correctly - use reputable plant identification books
Double check - always use more than one herb book
Choose plants carefully - avoid plants from areas recently sprayed with pesticides or herbicides. For this reason, it is best not to accept plants given from someone's garden, unless you are sure they are safe. Never use herbs picked or gathered from roadsides
See the safety page of this web site.

Possible themes for your garden are