Tallinn Botanical Garden expert: regular pruning makes culinary herbs bushier

Culinary herbs are a popular choice in home gardens and on windowsills, but growing them requires the right care techniques. Tiia Jaanus, a methodology specialist at Tallinn Botanical Garden, explains why regular pruning and proper watering are key to healthy plant growth.

Fresh culinary herbs are an indispensable part of many home kitchens – they add both flavour and aroma to dishes. According to Tiia Jaanus, a methodology specialist at Tallinn Botanical Garden, culinary herbs can be successfully grown on home windowsills if you follow some basic rules.

According to Jaanus, good plant growth depends primarily on two factors: proper pruning and watering. Regular pruning does not damage the plant – on the contrary, it stimulates the growth of new shoots and makes the plant bushier. If left unpruned, the plant quickly begins to flower, after which the taste of the leaves noticeably weakens.

Watering also requires careful attention. Too much water can damage the roots of culinary herbs and cause root rot. It is recommended to water when the soil surface has dried out, and to avoid water accumulating in the pot. Basil and rosemary are particularly sensitive to excess moisture.

When growing culinary herbs on a windowsill, you should also consider light. Most culinary herbs prefer a sunny location, with at least six hours of direct light per day. During the winter period, when daylight hours decrease in Estonia, additional lighting may be necessary to maintain plant vitality.