Can you eat garden herbs?

More people are embracing wellness-focused living and growing your own herbs is a big part of that. It’s not only cost-effective and sustainable, but also allows you to control exactly how your herbs are grown. If you’re new to homegrown herbs and wondering if they’re safe to eat, this guide will walk you through the basics.

Identify the herb and its edibility

Before you eat anything from your garden, correct identification is essential. Not all herbs are edible and some are toxic. Common edible herbs include basil, rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley and mint. Avoid plants such as poison hemlock, jimsonweed and poison ivy, which are harmful. When in doubt, research carefully or consult a plant expert.

Observe the herb

Once you’ve confirmed your herb is safe to eat, check the plant’s condition. Only consume herbs that are free of pests and disease. Look out for spots, discolouration or insect damage, and harvest only the healthy, vibrant leaves and stems.

Wash the herb thoroughly

Even organically grown herbs need a good clean. Rinse each herb gently under running water to remove soil or debris. A soft vegetable brush can help remove grit from tougher leaves. Pat dry or air dry on a clean surface before storing or consuming.

Avoid using pesticides

To keep your herbs safe to eat, avoid using chemical pesticides. Herbs grow well with natural care and don’t need heavy treatments. If pests become a problem, explore organic or natural remedies. If you ever do apply a spray, wait the recommended time before harvesting and wash thoroughly.

Eating herbs from your garden can be a healthy and rewarding habit. With a little care and attention to safety, your herbs will add vibrant flavour to your meals. Just remember to identify them properly, check for health, wash before use and skip the chemicals and your herb garden can be a brilliant addition to your kitchen and your wellbeing.

Support from MyTree™

At Tree2mydoor, we believe gifting should grow into something lasting. That’s why every herb gift comes with access to MyTree™ - our aftercare service that includes seasonal tips, growing advice and a full year of support. Whether you're growing rosemary for roasting or mint for mojitos, we’re here to help your herbs thrive.

With over two decades of experience helping people grow gifts that matter, Tree2mydoor is proud to support happy, healthy gardens across the UK.