Herb Garden Singapore
Taken from: https://gardeningsg.nparks.gov.sg/

Popular herbs in your herb garden to spice up Singapore cuisine

In our increasingly busy and tired lives, what could be more fulfilling than a simple, sustainable hobby that nourishes both the mind and the belly? Herb gardening is easily among the best hobbies one can adopt they are simple to start, easy to maintain and as a bonus, an instant dose of life into our homes.

From the numerous Reddit threads on home herb gardens to inspiring stories in the news, and even NParks’ Edible Garden projects, it’s clear that more people in Singapore are rediscovering the joy of growing their own food.

 

Though one may be excited to jump straight into planting their favorites, it is important to remember that some herbs can be tricky and that it’d be good to begin with some of the basics. The following plants are perfect for home gardeners.

1. Pandan Leaf (Pandanus amaryllifolius)

Popular Herbs that you can start to grow in your herb garden: Pandan Leaves

Also known as “Vanilla of Southeast Asia”, Pandan has the ability to impart a natural green colour to food items, and lends its unique, freshly-cut grass and vanilla-like fragrance wherever it goes.

It is renowned that the uses of the Pandan’s leaves go beyond its extensive culinary function, demonstrating its remarkable versatility.

Ideal Growing Environment

Pandan grows quickly in bright, filtered sunlight and thrives in moist, well-draining soil. Use The Medium Soil Co Premium Vegimix for a balanced mix of nutrients and good drainage. Keep the soil moist, but avoid letting the roots sit in water, this can cause root rot.

Uses of Pandan Leaf

From Pandan Cake to Chendol and Bubur Cha Cha, Pandan adds its distinctive fragrance to countless local desserts. Fun fact: some older neighbourhood provision shops used to tuck Pandan leaves inside their dim sum steamers to enhance the aroma — a simple but delightful trick you can try at home.

2. Holy Basil, Tulasi (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

The Holy Basil or Tulasi is a sacred plant in many homes across Asia, known for its distinctive scent and medicinal properties. It’s a small, bushy herb that grows up to 60 cm tall with fragrant green to purple-tinged leaves.

Popular Herbs that you can start to grow in your herb garden: Holy Basil

Ideal Growing Environment

The Holy Basil can be placed near a bright window or anywhere in your home that receives direct sunlight, for at least six hours a day. It grows best in fertile soil that is rich in organic matter and drains well. Keep its soil moist but not soggy. Mixing in compost or perlite will also help to improve aeration and drainage

Uses of Holy Basil

Holy Basil gives a bold, peppery note to dishes like Pad Kra Pao, a stir-fried favourite loved across Southeast Asia. You can also add fresh leaves to soups or teas for a refreshing twist.

3. Chinese Chives (Allium tuberosum)

Popular Herbs that you can start to grow in your herb garden: Chinese Chives

Easy to recognize by their flat, vibrant green leaves and delicate white, starry flowers, Chinese Chives (or Koo Chye) are a delightful addition to any beginner’s herb garden. They offer a mild, subtle garlic flavour, making them a foundational and beloved feature in Chinese and Southeast Asian cooking across the region.

Ideal Growing Environment

Like the best ingredients, Chinese Chives need a generous dose of sunshine to thrive, ideally receiving 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They grow best in well-draining, fertile soil enriched with compost. To keep your chives happy and healthy, ensure you water them regularly, but always make sure the container or plot allows excess water to drain away completely. Preventing waterlogged soil is crucial to avoid root rot and keep your harvest flourishing.

Uses of Chinese Chives

If you’ve ever enjoyed the smoky, savory flavors of local hawker food, you have most certainly tasted them before. These versatile leaves are a required ingredient in local hawker favourites like Char Kway Teow and the ever-popular Gyoza OnStik from Old Chang Kee. They truly shine as the star ingredient in Koo Chai Kueh (Teochew Chives Dumplings), providing that signature herbaceous kick.

4. Laksa Leaf (Persicaria odorata)

The Laksa Leaf, also known as Vietnamese Coriander, is another must-have in any local herb garden. Native to Southeast Asia, it has a distinctive peppery and citrusy flavour. The essential taste behind our beloved Laksa.

Popular Herbs that you can start to grow in your herb garden: Laksa Leaf

Ideal Growing Environment

The Laksa Leaf is a fast grower, making it a rewarding plant for beginners. It does best when placed in an area that receives bright, indirect sunlight for about 4 to 6 hours daily. This herb prefers soil that is consistently moist but requires excellent drainage. A mix of garden soil, organic compost, and perlite works well to achieve this balance. While it loves moisture, remember the key rule: be careful not to overwater. Soggy roots will quickly lead to rot.

Uses of Laksa Leaf

True to its name, the Laksa Leaf is most famously used as a key aromatic component in Singapore Laksa and the flavorful broth of Vietnamese Pho. Beyond these iconic dishes, its sharp, fresh, herbal note makes it versatile. The leaves can be finely sliced and added to light salads, clear soups, or even folded into an omelette for a quick, aromatic lift.

5. Curry Leaf Tree (Murraya koenigii)

Popular Herbs that you can start to grow in your herb garden: Curry Leaves

The Curry Leaf Tree is a hardy tropical shrub that’s a staple in many local kitchens. Its shiny green leaves add depth and aroma to curries, stir-fries, and sambals.

Ideal Growing Environment

As a sun-loving tropical plant, the Curry Leaf Tree thrives in full sunlight. It prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist. To ensure healthy growth and prevent the dreaded root rot, only water the plant when the top 2 to 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Using a loamy mix enriched with compost is highly recommended, as this structure supports lush, abundant leaf growth—perfect for your next batch of curry!

Uses of Curry Leaf

Curry leaves are best used fresh . Sauté them in oil to release their aroma before adding spices or meat. They are essential in many local favourites, including Singapore’s signature Chicken Curry.

Start Your Herb Garden with World Farm

Growing your own herbs in Singapore is a rewarding and sustainable journey. If you love fresh, chemical-free ingredients, you’ll also enjoy growing your own plants from pot to plate.

You can find all these herbs, soil mixes and all the tools you could ever need at both of our World Farm Garden Centres. Our friendly team is here to offer planting advice, soil tips, and care suggestions. So you can build a thriving herb garden, no matter your space or experience.

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