Summer can be a challenging time for herb gardening, as many herbs prefer cooler temperatures and can struggle to survive the intense heat and dry conditions of the season. However, several herbs are well adapted to heat and can thrive even in the hottest summer weather. In this blog, we will discuss some of the best heat-tolerant herbs to grow in your garden. These herbs are not only easy to grow, but they can also add flavor and variety to your summer dishes.
1. Basil
Botanical Name:Ocimum basilicum
Basil is a heat-tolerant herb that can withstand high temperatures and direct sunlight, making it an excellent choice for summer gardening. Basil is a member of the mint family and has a distinctive flavor that adds a fresh, aromatic taste to many dishes, including pasta, salads, and sauces.
Basil is easy to grow and can be started from seeds or purchased as seedlings from a garden center. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and needs regular watering, especially during hot weather. However, overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot.
One of the best things about basil is that it's easy to harvest and use in cooking. The leaves can be picked as needed and added fresh to dishes.
2. Rosemary
Botanical Name:Salvia rosmarinus
Rosemary is a heat-tolerant herb that can thrive in hot, dry conditions. Native to the Mediterranean region, Rosemary is an aromatic herb that has been used for centuries in cooking, medicine, and as a decorative plant.
Rosemary prefers well-drained soil and full sun, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who live in hot, dry climates. It's also drought tolerant, which means it can survive with minimal watering, making it a low-maintenance herb.
In addition to its culinary uses, Rosemary has many health benefits. It's been used to improve digestion, boost the immune system, and even improve memory and concentration.
Rosemary is easy to grow from cuttings or seeds, and once established, it can grow up to 4 feet tall. It's a great herb to plant in containers, and it can also be used as a decorative plant in landscaping.
3. Thyme
Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris
Thyme is another heat-tolerant herb that is well-suited for summer gardening. It's a small, woody herb that is native to the Mediterranean and has been used for centuries in cooking and medicine.
Thyme is a low-maintenance herb that grows well in well-drained soil and full sun. It's drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for gardeners who live in hot, dry areas. Thyme also has a long growing season, which means it can be harvested multiple times throughout the summer.
In addition to its culinary uses, thyme also has many health benefits. It has been used to treat respiratory infections, boost the immune system, and even improve mood and cognitive function.
Thyme can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or by dividing an established plant. It's a great herb to plant in containers, and it also works well as a ground cover or as a border plant.
4. Doddapatre
Botanical Name: Coleus amboinicus
Doddapatre or Cuban Oregano is a heat-tolerant herb that is native to India and Sri Lanka but is also commonly found in other tropical regions, including the Caribbean.
Doddapatreprefers well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. It is also drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for hot and dry climates. This herb can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and has broad, succulent leaves that are often used fresh or dried in cooking.
In addition to its culinary uses, Doddapatrehas many medicinal benefits. It has been used to treat respiratory problems, digestive issues, and even insect bites.
5. Sage
Botanical Name: Salvia Officinalis
Sage is a hardy and heat-tolerant herb that is native to the Mediterranean. It has been used for centuries in cooking and medicine and is known for its earthy, slightly bitter flavor.
Sage prefers well-drained soil and full sun, although it can also tolerate partial shade. It is a drought-tolerant herb, making it an excellent choice for hot and dry climates. Sage can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and has fragrant, gray-green leaves that can be used fresh or dried in cooking.
In addition to its culinary uses, Sage has many medicinal benefits. It has been used to treat digestive issues, improve cognitive function, and even relieve symptoms of menopause.
Sage is easy to propagate from seeds or cuttings and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. It is also a great herb to use in landscaping due to its attractive, silvery appearance and low-maintenance care.
6. Mint
Botanical Name: Mentha
Mint is a popular herb that is known for its aroma and flavor. It is a hardy perennial that is native to Europe but is now grown all over the world. Mint comes in many varieties, each with its own distinct flavor and scent.
Mint is a heat-tolerant herb that can thrive in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil and regular watering, especially during hot weather. Mint can grow up to 2 feet tall and has long, slender leaves that are often used fresh in cooking.
Mint is a versatile herb that can be used in many different dishes, from savory to sweet. It is often used in teas, cocktails, and desserts, as well as in savory dishes such as salads, sauces, and marinades.
In addition to its culinary uses, Mint has many medicinal benefits. It has been used to treat digestive issues, headaches, and even bad breath. Mint oil is also used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and ease stress.
7. Garlic chives
Botanical Name:Allium schoenoprasum
Garlic chives, also known as Chinese chives or Allium tuberosum, are a heat-tolerant herb that is widely used in Asian cuisine. They are hardy perennial that can grow up to 2 feet tall and has flat, narrow leaves that resemble grass.
Garlic chives are named for their strong garlic flavor and aroma, which make them a popular addition to many dishes, including soups, stir-fries, and dumplings. They can be used fresh or cooked and are often added at the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavor.
Garlic chives are easy to grow and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. Regular watering is important, especially during hot weather.
In addition to their culinary uses, garlic chives have many medicinal benefits. They have been used to treat digestive issues, lower blood pressure, and even improve eyesight. Garlic chives also contain high levels of vitamins A and C and are a good source of calcium and iron.
8. Curry leaves
Botanical Name: Murraya koenigii
Curry leaves are a heat-tolerant herb commonly used in Indian cuisine. They are small, glossy leaf that grows on a small shrub-like tree and is often used to add a distinctive flavor and aroma to curries, soups, and stews.
Curry leaves are rich in antioxidants and have been found to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-cancer properties. They are also a good source of vitamins A, B, and C, as well as iron and calcium.
Curry leaves are relatively easy to grow and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. Regular watering is important, especially during hot weather.
In addition to their culinary uses, curry leaves have many medicinal benefits. They have been used to treat digestive issues, reduce cholesterol, and even promote hair growth. Curry leaves can be dried and ground into a powder or used fresh in cooking.
9. Holy basil
Botanical Name: Ocimum tenuiflorum
Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is a heat-tolerant herb that has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties. It is commonly grown in India, where it is considered a sacred plant.
Holy basil has a distinct aroma and flavor, with hints of clove and pepper. It is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, salads, and teas. It pairs well with ginger, garlic, and other herbs like cilantro and mint.
In addition to its culinary uses, holy basil has many medicinal benefits. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties, and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory issues, stress, and anxiety. Holy basil is also believed to have anti-cancer properties and can help boost the immune system.
Holy basil is relatively easy to grow and prefers warm, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. It is a hardy herb that can withstand high temperatures and drought conditions. Regular watering and fertilization can help promote healthy growth.
10. Lemon balm
Botanical Name: Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm is a heat-tolerant herb that belongs to the mint family. It is well-known for its distinct lemony scent and flavor, which makes it a popular ingredient in herbal teas, desserts, and cocktails.
Aside from its culinary uses, lemon balm has a long history of medicinal use. It has been found to have calming and soothing properties and may help alleviate anxiety, stress, and insomnia. It has also been used to relieve digestive issues, menstrual cramps, and headaches.
Lemon balm is relatively easy to grow and thrives in warm, sunny locations. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and regular watering. It can be grown from seed or propagated through stem cuttings.
One of the benefits of growing lemon balm is that it attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden. It also has natural pest-repelling properties, making it a good companion plant for other herbs and vegetables.
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Extra reading
Green Leafy vegetables for a Quick harvest
10 Most Nutritious Vegetables You Need To Grow In Your Garden
Summer Vegetable Garden: How to Get Started
Small Space, Big Harvest: Growing Cucumbers in Pots
Happy Gardening!
Dr. Vandana K.