Whether you're using them for cooking, medicine, landscaping or to keep bugs at bay, there is a herb to suit your needs. Contrary to what some people believe, it doesn't take any extra gardening know-how to grow herbs. In fact a lot of them require very little maintenance at all. Below are some of our favourites, their uses, how to grow them and some interesting facts you may not know about them!

Horseradish

Prized by the Ancient Greeks and Egyptians and used throughout the Middle Ages, Horseradish is a popular herb that is part of the Brassicaceae family, which also includes mustard and wasabi.

Commonly used as a condiment it is also highly valued for its antibacterial qualities, as well as its ability to purify the blood and help rid the body of waste products.

Horseradish is best cultivated from a piece of the root planted in early spring. Aside from regular watering and ensuring it is protected from weeds it requires little in the way of attention, making it the perfect herb for novice gardeners or children to grow.

Lemon and herb rainbow trout

Rosemary

Native to the Mediterranean, this herb takes its name from the Latin ros maris (dew of the sea). Fragrant and possessing a wide variety of flowers, this herb can provide landscapers with a strong focal point when designing a garden.

The robustly flavoured leaves are commonly used to flavour meats like lamb and chicken. Even the woody stalks can be used as an alternative to kitchen skewers.

Rosemary is another herb that is easy to grow, with seeds able to be planted throughout the year. As long as they are planted in well drained soil they should prosper with the right care.

Braised chicken in lemon, garlic and rosemary

What are your favourite herbs? Tell us below.