Newfoundland and Labrador’s cool, wet climate suits moisture-loving herbs like watercress and mint. If you are looking for the Best Herbs To Grow In Newfoundland And Labrador, you have come to the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know to grow a thriving herb garden in this unique region.
Growing herbs here is different than in warmer parts of Canada. The short growing season and acidic soil mean you need to choose plants that can handle cool temperatures and plenty of rain. The good news is that many herbs actually thrive in these conditions.
You do not need a greenhouse or special equipment. With a little planning, you can grow fresh herbs right in your backyard or on a balcony. Let us walk through the top choices and how to care for them.
Best Herbs To Grow In Newfoundland And Labrador
These herbs are proven winners for the local climate. They handle the cool springs, wet summers, and early frosts that are common here.
Mint
Mint is almost impossible to kill in Newfoundland. It loves the damp soil and can spread quickly if you let it. Plant it in a container to keep it under control.
- Grows well in partial shade
- Needs consistent moisture
- Harvest leaves regularly for best flavor
- Great for teas and salads
Watercress
Watercress is a perfect match for Newfoundland’s wet conditions. It grows naturally in streams and damp areas. You can grow it in a pot with a tray of water underneath.
- Prefers running water or very wet soil
- Harvest when leaves are young
- Rich in vitamins and minerals
- Adds a peppery taste to meals
Chives
Chives are hardy perennials that come back year after year. They tolerate the cold well and start growing early in spring. The purple flowers are also edible.
- Plant in full sun or light shade
- Divide clumps every few years
- Cut leaves from the base
- Use in soups and omelets
Lovage
Lovage tastes like celery but is much easier to grow. It is a tall plant that does well in cool weather. The leaves and stems are both useful in cooking.
- Grows up to 6 feet tall
- Needs rich, moist soil
- Harvest outer leaves first
- Good for stocks and stews
Parsley
Parsley is a biennial that often survives winter in Newfoundland. It prefers cool weather and will bolt in heat. Flat-leaf and curly types both work well.
- Soak seeds before planting
- Keep soil evenly moist
- Harvest outer stems
- Adds fresh flavor to many dishes
Dill
Dill grows quickly and does not mind the cold. It self-seeds easily, so you might get new plants next year. The leaves and seeds are both used in cooking.
- Plant in a sunny spot
- Water regularly
- Harvest leaves before flowers open
- Good with fish and pickles
Thyme
Thyme is a low-growing perennial that handles Newfoundland winters well. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. The small leaves are packed with flavor.
- Plant in raised beds for drainage
- Trim after flowering
- Use fresh or dried
- Pairs with meat and vegetables
Sorrel
Sorrel has a lemony taste and grows well in cool weather. It is a perennial that comes back each spring. The leaves are best when young and tender.
- Grows in sun or partial shade
- Cut leaves often to encourage new growth
- Use in salads and sauces
- Remove flower stalks to keep leaves tender
How To Start Your Herb Garden In Newfoundland And Labrador
Starting an herb garden here requires some planning. The growing season is short, so you need to make the most of it. Here is a step-by-step guide.
Choose The Right Location
Most herbs need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Pick a spot that gets morning sun and some afternoon shade. This helps prevent the plants from drying out too fast.
If you have a south-facing wall, that is ideal. The wall absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night. This can extend your growing season by a few weeks.
Prepare The Soil
Newfoundland soil is often acidic and low in nutrients. Test your soil pH first. Most herbs prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Add lime to raise the pH if needed. Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility. Raised beds are a good option if your soil is very wet or rocky.
Start Seeds Indoors
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. The last frost date varies by location but is usually late May or early June. Use seed-starting mix and keep the soil warm.
- Fill pots with seed-starting mix
- Plant seeds at the depth listed on the packet
- Water gently and cover with plastic
- Place in a warm, bright location
- Remove plastic once seedlings appear
- Harden off plants before transplanting
Transplant Outdoors
Wait until the soil has warmed up and all frost danger has passed. This is usually around early June. Space plants according to their mature size.
Water well after transplanting. Use a mulch of straw or grass clippings to keep the soil moist and suppress weeds. This is especially important in dry spells.
Water And Feed
Water herbs deeply once a week, more often in hot weather. Most herbs prefer consistent moisture but do not like soggy roots. Check the soil before watering.
Feed herbs with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 to 4 weeks. Do not over-fertilize, as this can reduce flavor. Compost tea is a good organic option.
Harvest Regularly
Harvest herbs often to encourage bushy growth. Cut leaves in the morning after the dew has dried. This is when the oils are most concentrated.
Do not harvest more than one-third of the plant at a time. Leave enough leaves for the plant to keep growing. Regular harvesting also prevents flowering, which can make leaves bitter.
Overwintering Herbs In Newfoundland And Labrador
Winter here is harsh, but many herbs can survive with a little help. Perennial herbs like mint, chives, and thyme are hardy enough to stay in the ground. Annual herbs like basil and dill will need to be replanted each year.
Protect Perennial Herbs
Mulch perennial herbs heavily in late fall. Use straw, leaves, or wood chips. This insulates the roots from freezing and thawing cycles.
Cut back dead growth in early spring. New shoots will emerge from the roots. Do not cut back too early, as this can damage new growth.
Bring Tender Herbs Indoors
Some herbs like rosemary and lavender may not survive outdoors. Bring them inside before the first frost. Place them in a sunny window or under grow lights.
Water less frequently indoors. The lower light levels mean the plants need less moisture. Check for pests like aphids before bringing them inside.
Store Herbs For Winter Use
You can dry or freeze herbs to use during the winter. Drying works well for thyme, oregano, and sage. Freezing is better for basil, chives, and parsley.
To dry herbs, hang them in small bunches in a dark, dry place. Once dry, store them in airtight jars. To freeze herbs, chop them and place in ice cube trays with water or oil.
Common Problems And Solutions
Even the best herbs can have issues. Here are some common problems you might face in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Slow Growth
If your herbs are growing slowly, the soil might be too cold or too wet. Wait until the soil warms up before planting. Improve drainage by adding organic matter.
Another cause is lack of sunlight. Make sure your herbs are getting enough light. Consider using reflective mulch to increase light levels.
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves often mean overwatering or poor drainage. Let the soil dry out between waterings. If the problem persists, check for root rot.
Yellow leaves can also be a sign of nutrient deficiency. Apply a balanced fertilizer to give the plants a boost. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause leaf burn.
Pests
Aphids and slugs are common pests in Newfoundland. Aphids can be washed off with a strong spray of water. Slugs can be controlled with beer traps or diatomaceous earth.
Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. They eat aphids and other pests. Plant flowers like dill and fennel to attract them.
Bolting
Bolting is when herbs flower and go to seed too early. This happens when temperatures fluctuate or plants are stressed. Harvest leaves regularly to delay bolting.
Choose bolt-resistant varieties if possible. Provide shade during heat waves. Keep the soil evenly moist to reduce stress.
Best Herbs For Specific Uses
Different herbs have different uses in the kitchen. Here are some recommendations based on what you want to cook.
For Teas
Mint, chamomile, and lemon balm are great for teas. They are easy to grow and produce lots of leaves. Dry the leaves for winter use.
Steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. Add honey or lemon to taste. These herbs also have calming properties.
For Salads
Watercress, sorrel, and chives add fresh flavor to salads. Use them raw or lightly wilted. They pair well with vinaigrettes and citrus.
Mix different herbs for a complex flavor. Try adding edible flowers like chive blossoms for color. Harvest leaves just before serving for the best taste.
For Cooking
Thyme, parsley, and dill are staples in many recipes. They work well in soups, stews, and sauces. Use them fresh or dried.
Add delicate herbs like parsley at the end of cooking. Hardy herbs like thyme can be added earlier. Adjust amounts to suit your taste.
For Medicinal Use
Some herbs have traditional medicinal uses. Echinacea, calendula, and yarrow are easy to grow. Use them in teas, tinctures, or salves.
Always research proper use and dosages. Consult a healthcare professional before using herbs medicinally. Some herbs can interact with medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the easiest herbs to grow in Newfoundland and Labrador?
Mint, chives, and parsley are among the easiest. They handle the cool climate well and require minimal care. Start with these if you are new to gardening.
Can I grow basil outdoors in Newfoundland?
Basil is possible but needs warm conditions. Start seeds indoors and transplant after the soil warms. Grow in a sheltered spot or use a cold frame.
When should I plant herbs in Newfoundland?
Start seeds indoors in March or April. Transplant outdoors in early June after the last frost. Some hardy herbs can be planted earlier if protected.
Do herbs need full sun in Newfoundland?
Most herbs prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. In Newfoundland, morning sun and afternoon shade work well. This prevents the plants from drying out.
How do I protect herbs from frost?
Cover plants with row covers or old sheets on frosty nights. Bring potted herbs indoors. Mulch perennial herbs to protect the roots.
Final Tips For Success
Start small and expand as you gain experience. Choose a few herbs that you use often in cooking. This keeps you motivated and reduces waste.
Keep a garden journal to track what works and what does not. Note planting dates, weather conditions, and harvest times. This helps you improve each year.
Connect with local gardeners and gardening groups. They can offer advice specific to your area. Sharing tips and seeds is a great way to learn.
Remember that gardening is a learning process. Not everything will work perfectly the first time. Be patient and keep trying new things.
With the right choices and a little care, you can enjoy fresh herbs from your own garden. The cool, wet climate of Newfoundland and Labrador is actually a blessing for many herbs. Embrace it and watch your garden thrive.