Summer in Jekka's Herb Garden

We haven’t experienced a summer like this in a long time, with record temperatures recorded in our polytunnels.

We used to have a saying for Lavandula angustifolias “Prune one-eighth, on the eighth day, of the eighth month.” But this year, we’ve already begun pruning these Lavenders in Jekka’s Herbetum, a whole month earlier than usual, as they finished flowering far ahead of schedule.

With our ever-changing climate, it’s more important than ever to observe your plants rather than rely strictly on the gardening calendar. Let your plants be your guide.

For all herbs in the Lamiaceae family, we highly recommend giving them a proper prune straight after flowering. This signals the plant to redirect its energy into producing fresh new growth.

Another summer tip: with temperatures now peaking around 4pm, it’s best to water your garden first thing in the morning, rather than after work, so your plants can absorb moisture before the heat sets in.

Helichrysum italicum, Punica granatum and Santolina rosmarinifolia subsp rosmarinifolia ‘Primrose Gem’

Some of the standout herbs in our garden this season have been the Curry Plant (Helichrysum italicum), Pomegranate (Punica granatum), and Cotton Lavender ‘Primrose Gem’ (Santolina rosmarinifolia subsp. rosmarinifolia ‘Primrose Gem’). These three drew a lot of attention at our July Open Days, alongside the array of thymes in Jekka’s Gravel Garden, which have been in their element, creating a carpet of colour and scent.

Jekka's Red Eye Thyme, Thymus 'Jekka's Red Eye’