What Herbs Are Commonly Used In Permaculture Gardens?

“I’m setting up a small permaculture garden at home here in Cork, Ireland. I want to plant some herbs that will work well within the system, provide a good yield, and also benefit the overall garden. Can you recommend any specific herbs that are really effective in permaculture, and how to use them to their fullest potential?” thanks, Tom, Cork, Ireland.

Understanding Permaculture Herbs: Where to Begin

Herbs play a crucial role in a permaculture garden. Whether you’re starting small like Tom or expanding an already established system, thoughtful herb selection can make a world of difference. Herbs aren’t just beautiful and fragrant – many of them offer invaluable benefits to the broader ecosystem. From deterring pests to fixing nitrogen and promoting pollinators, herbs in a permaculture garden can do wonders when chosen wisely.

Plus, they’re practical! Most of us love having fresh herbs at our fingertips. Ever pinched a sprig of basil to brighten your pasta? How about a handful of fresh mint for your tea? But how do you know which herbs are best suited for a permaculture garden? Let’s explore some top contenders and how they contribute to a thriving system.

The Dynamic Duo: Nitrogen-Fixing Herbs

First off, let’s talk about the unsung heroes of the herb world—nitrogen-fixing plants. These plants help enrich the soil by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use. This kickstarts soil fertility and is an excellent first choice when starting your herb garden.

**Comfrey**

Comfrey is an absolute powerhouse in permaculture gardens. It might not be a classic “culinary” herb, but it’s invaluable. Comfrey’s deep roots mine nutrients from the soil, pulling them up and into its leaves. These leaves are rich in nitrogen, potassium, and calcium. Once your comfrey is established, you can chop the leaves back and use them as mulch or in compost, where they’ll break down into a nutrient-rich fertilizer.

The best part? Comfrey grows like a weed, so you’re not going to run out anytime soon. Do be mindful though; this plant spreads, so manage it by cutting it back regularly.

**Alfalfa**

Another nitrogen-fixer, alfalfa, not only improves soil fertility but also helps suppress weeds. It’s deep roots aerate the soil, which is particularly beneficial if you’re working with compacted ground. Keep in mind that alfalfa grows very tall, so plant it where it won’t overshadow smaller herbs. Some folks even use it as a cover crop in between other planting cycles.

And let’s not forget, alfalfa is a great mulch. Cut it down, let it dry, and it will smother weeds while enriching the soil.

Pest-Repelling Herbs: Nature’s Bug Zappers

Nothing is more heartbreaking than nurturing a budding garden only to have it munched down by pests. Certain herbs can act as natural repellents against well-known bugs, and while they won’t eliminate every problem, they are a solid first defense.

**Basil**

Not only does basil make the best pesto around, but it’s also excellent for keeping pests at bay, particularly mosquitoes and houseflies. Plant it around tomatoes to improve growth and deter hornworms. Possibly one of the easiest and tastiest of the pest-repelling herbs to grow!

Basil loves warm weather and lots of sunlight. Just pinch off the flower buds to keep the plant producing those delicious leaves. Tom, I’d personally plant basil closer to the house or in pots by the door—this way, you’ll always have some to grab, and the smell is heavenly.

**Lavender**

Lavender isn’t just a pretty face. The lovely fragrance we cherish happens to be loathed by moths, fleas, and mosquitoes. Plant lavender near entryways or windows to deter these pests. It’s also known to attract pollinators like bees, which is a two-for-one deal in any garden.

If you have any sunny, well-drained spots in your garden, that’s the perfect place for lavender. Just don’t forget to prune it annually after the first flowering for a neat, bushy growth.

Dynamic Accumulators: Herbs that Supercharge Your Compost

Ever wondered how some folks get that black gold compost? Part of the magic comes from including “dynamic accumulator” plants—those herbs that absorb nutrients and minerals from deep within the soil. Adding their leaves to your compost bin boosts its quality.

**Yarrow**

Yarrow is a stunning, drought-tolerant herb that does wonders in a compost heap. The plant’s nutrient-rich leaves break down quickly, helping to speed up the composting process. It grows like a champ and can be harvested for this purpose several times during the growing season.

Bonus point: yarrow also attracts a whole host of beneficial insects, making it a win-win. Try planting it near the edges of your garden (it can spread) or mixing it with other flowering plants.

**Borage**

Borage might not be the first herb that comes to mind, but it’s a permaculture favorite and a dynamic accumulator par excellence. With its cucumber-flavored flowers and leaves, it has more to offer than meets the eye. Borage accumulates minerals like potassium and calcium, which are great for your compost.

To keep borage thriving, make sure it’s in a spot with some afternoon shade. And don’t worry if it starts looking a bit bedraggled; it’s still just fine for the compost!

Herbs for Attracting Pollinators and Beneficial Insects

No garden can flourish without our buzzing friends. To naturally attract pollinators and beneficial insects that help with pest control, certain herbs are must-haves.

**Thyme**

Thyme is one of those herbs you just can’t go wrong with. Bees adore its tiny flowers, and it spreads into a low-growing mat that’s perfect for growing between stepping stones or as ground cover around taller plants. And since it’s evergreen in most climates, you’ll benefit from this plant almost year-round.

Plus, thyme doubles as a culinary delight; it’s a crucial ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes, especially roasted potatoes. Thorn, you’d probably enjoy having it near your kitchen for quick harvesting. It doesn’t need much water and thrives in poor soils—how’s that for a winner?

**Dill**

An herb worth its weight in gold, dill is something every permaculture enthusiast should squeeze in somehow. Not only is it prolific in attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, but it also attracts beneficial predators like ladybugs and parasitic wasps that help manage aphid populations. These guys are your natural pest control team!

Dill does best in cooler weather and appreciates well-drained soil. It likes company too, so consider planting it near cabbages and broccoli, where it can also help deter cabbage worms.

Herbs for Companion Planting

Companion planting is a central tenet of permaculture. Certain plants grow better together, often because one provides some benefit—be it nutrient sharing, pest control, or otherwise—to the other. These herbs are great companions for many common garden vegetables.

**Chives**

Chives are incredibly easy to grow and form a wonderful relationship with carrots, improving their flavor while also repelling unwanted pests like carrot flies. Their beautiful purple flowers are also a hit with pollinators.

Since chives can handle a bit of shade, you can tuck them in just about anywhere without them complaining too much. Like garlic and onions, their allium family connection makes them resilient against most pests.

**Marjoram**

Marjoram is a subtly flavored herb that loves to grow near just about anything. It’s particularly beneficial around beans and other legumes, helping boost their flavor. Like thyme, marjoram can also act as a ground cover, keeping the soil cool and moist.

This herb has the added benefit of attracting beneficial insects, making it an all-around garden superstar. Just a note, if you’re in a particularly cold climate, Tom, you’ll want to grow it as an annual or bring it inside during the winter.

Herbs for Medicinal Purposes in a Permaculture Garden

A permaculture garden isn’t just about providing food or improving the environment; it can also be a source of home-grown remedies. Some herbs have basic medicinal properties that can be tapped into for home use (though always do your own research first!).

**Calendula**

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a well-known herb for soothing skin irritations. Its bright flowers are steeped in oil to make skincare products or brewed as a tea to reduce inflammation. Although it’s technically more of a flowering plant than a classic “herb,” it plays a critical role in permaculture as a multifunctional plant.

Calendula loves full sun and will self-seed, meaning it often comes back year after year, ready to offer up its healing blooms.

**Echinacea**

Echinacea is another flowering plant with medicinal uses and an ecological superstar in a permaculture garden. Known for its immune-boosting properties, you can use the flowers, leaves, and roots to make teas and tinctures.

Echinacea thrives in a sunny location and can withstand poorer soils, making it a resilient and beautiful option. Plus, it’s great for attracting pollinators to your garden—what more could you ask for?

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Permaculture Herbs

Even in the best-planned garden, issues can pop up. But with a few simple tips, you can nip most problems in the bud—or leaf, as the case may be.

**Dealing with Herb Overgrowth**

If your comfrey turns into an unruly monster, don’t fret. Just cut it back severely, and use the leaves as mulch around your plants. Overgrowth can be intimidating at first, but it’s not a death sentence for your garden.

For herbs like mint that tend to take over, a simple trick is to grow them in containers either sunk into the ground or placed on patios. This keeps their roots contained and growth manageable.

**Managing Pests Naturally**

If pests start getting the upper hand, try making a simple homemade spray using garlic and soap. It’s effective against many soft-bodied insects like aphids, without harming beneficial pollinators. Neem oil, used sparingly, can also be a great help but use it as a last resort since it can affect pollinators too.

Final Thoughts…

Tom, thanks for asking this question—it’s a great one and one anyone starting a permaculture garden should be thinking about. The herbs we’ve covered aren’t just versatile; they’re easy to grow and offer a wealth of benefits whether you’re trying to boost soil health, deter pests, attract pollinators, or grow your own food and medicine.

Remember, your garden will evolve over time, much like the herbs you plant in it. Feel free to experiment and observe what works best in your particular setup. With a bit of patience and tending, you’ll have a bountiful, beautiful garden full of the freshest herbs in no time!