Romatic, tasty and easy on the eye, fresh herbs are a cheap and simple way to bring more greenery to your home and flavour to your cooking. Thanks to Barcelona’s climate, the smallest city balcony can be transformed into a sweet-smelling herb garden that needs minimal maintenance. The best plants to pick are Mediterranean herbs as they thrive in hot temperatures and nutrient-poor soils, and insects and pests generally dislike them. Choose containers that drain well and allow the soil good circulation (sandy soil with a neutral pH works best). You can try growing your herbs from seeds or using clippings but, for a quick start, buy them as young plants from your nearest garden centre.
Oregano (Orégano)
A lover of balmy weather, oregano is native to the Mediterranean. For strong flavour, ensure it is placed in full sun. Give the plant sporadic but thorough waterings so it is able to soak up moisture at its roots. Regular trimming will help your oregano plant branch again and avoid it thinning out.
Rosemary (Romero)
One of the easiest plants to take care of, rosemary can go for long periods without water. Take care not to overwater as it is sensitive to root rot and mildew. Look for shrub and creeping varieties which look great hanging down walls and balconies. Rosemary is hardier than oregano and will survive the winter months too.
Sage (Salvia)
Favoured by Greeks and Romans for food preservation, sage is the hardiest of the Mediterranean herbs. It loves full sunshine but can also tolerate cold, and is content in partial shade. The leaves can be dried and stored for long-term use. Try a purple or tri-coloured variety to add different hues to your balcony garden.
Thyme (Tomillo)
Thyme is a small but powerful plant that can put up with high temperatures as well as severe cold. A well-established thyme plant will need little attention, just a sprinkling of water once a week or so. In dry weather, it may need more regular watering.
Basil (Albahaca)
Originally Asian, this herb made its way to Europe through trade. Basil likes it hot and will flourish in the summer so now is a good time to get it started. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch and try to water at its base, rather than over the leaves. Pinch off leaves and stems for cooking, avoiding the use of a knife, as contact with metal oxidises the plant.
In Barcelona, watering plants on balconies that overhang the street is regulated. Avoid the ire of your neighbours by sticking to the approved timetable, which is between midnight and 8am. Also, if you are making use of railings, make sure that pots are securely attached.