1. Easy to grow

Whether you buy them as plug plants or sow them from seed, herbs are a great plant for beginner gardeners. Most herbs are unfussy about growing conditions and space – happy slotting in among other plants. They can also be harvested for seed and grown the following year. Others can be easily rooted from cuttings. Watch Emma’s tutorial here Watch Emma's tutorial here. Head to our herb growing guides Herb growing guides to find more advice on growing individual herbs.

2. There’s a herb for every location and situation!

While Mediterranean herbs will love a sun-baked courtyard, not all herbs require full sun. Mint grows well in a damp, shady spot (best grown in a sunken bucket to restrict root growth), and parsley and chervil are happy in partial shade. If you're growing chervil in pots, allow for adequate drainage and keep the soil evenly moist. It can also be grown indoors on a windowsill. Perennial herbs such as lemon balm produce fresh leaves every year, with no extra effort. Cut back after flowering for new growth and prevent stems becoming woody.

3. Great for wildlife

The seeds of herbs provide a fabulous food source for birds, particularly finches, stems can be used as overwintering habitats for insects, and they can be a host plant for butterflies, on which they lay their eggs. Planting flowering herbs between your rows of veg, rather than in a separate herb bed will boost biodievrsity and improve pollination of your crops. Oregano, thyme and fennel are particular bee magnets. Visitors such as hoverflies will also help mop up pest insects, so your crops are healthier.

4. Perfect for small-space growing

Herbs are happy to be grown in containers, with Mediterranean plants such as basil, rosemary and sage tolerating drier conditions. Creeping thyme can be grown in a rockery, between cracks in paving stones or cascading from hanging baskets. Add some horticultural grit to the peat-free compost for drainage, and cut back after flowering to maintain their shape.

5.Money saving

Herbs from the supermarket can be costly, so by growing your own you can get multiple harvests right on your doorstep, without the added price tag, food miles or potentially pesticides. You will waste less as you can pick as-and-when needed.

6. Full of flavour

You won’t have to contend with wilted leaves when you grow your own herbs. Picking herbs fresh (particularly in the morning) means they’re filled with plant oils and have the most potent flavour. The intensive conditions and fertilisers used to produce shop-bought herbs can diminish their flavour.

7. Good for your health

Herbs contain bumper levels of antioxidants and can be used in tinctures, teas, oils and as salves. Many of them can also alleviate digestive issues, have antifungal properties and lift your mood.