Container Herb Gardens

On the hillsides of Provence or Umbria, clumps of wild herbs growing in their natural habitat flourish in remarkably little soil. In my garden in the Ardèche I often transplant tussocks of wild thyme and mint and find them very difficult to dislodge from their home among the rocky outcrops. But after several strong tugs the herb eventually comes free and emerges with its dry, wiry roots denuded of soil. Once replanted in the damper, richer soil down near the house, the herbs often grow more lushly but rarely as aromatically. However, if planted in a clay pot and placed on a sun-baked terrace or windowsill, the wild thyme or mint regain their former vigour and scent - for pot-grown herbs invariably prosper.