Guide to Grow a Edible Herb Garden in a HDB Flat

Community Edible Herb Garden
Taken from: eatandsip.co

TL; DR (A quick summary)

Edible plant needs more attention, but the core gardening principles remain the same. They grow best in bright and well-ventilated spaces like balconies and corridors. When choosing what to grow, consider the environment available, the types of herbs you prefer and the level of care that fits your lifestyle.

  1. The environment available for your herbs
  2. The types of herbs you want to grow
  3. Your lifestyle and level of care

Observe your herbs regularly for early signs of stress such as yellowing leaves, poor water absorption or the presence of pests.

Understanding How Herbs Grow

Growing edible plants and herbs is becoming more popular in Singapore, and this is seen in the growing number of community edible herb gardens, both privately owned (Jurong Play Grounds Community Gardens) and publicly owned (edible garden in Jurong Lake Garden). A common question from would-be gardeners is how to choose the right type of edible plant to grow at home. Some people prefer to grow more exotic herbs such as Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) or Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), while others prefer herbs and spices commonly used in Singaporean cuisine like the Laksa leaf (Persicaria odorata), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), or Thai Basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora).

How to Care for Edible Plants in HDB Flats

Choosing a suitable edible plant is already half the journey towards a thriving edible herb garden. Here are the three key considerations:

Environment For Herbs To Grow

The environment influences the success of your herb garden more than anything else. Herbs grow best when the conditions resemble what they naturally prefer. Bright light, good air movement and warm temperatures support steady and healthy growth. Often, it is the environment that determines whether herbs thrive or simply survive.

On that note, herbs and edibles typically do not thrive well indoors, so if you place them in your living room or bedroom, they tend to not last beyond a few weeks due to the insufficient light and poorer natural air circulation.

Do not be discouraged if some herbs do not last as long as expected. Herbs can be more challenging in Singapore’s climate because many familiar varieties available in local nurseries such as Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) or Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) originate from cooler climates. They are not naturally adapted to Singapore’s heat and humidity.

Type of Herb

Different herbs have different flavour profiles and growth habits.

  • Laksa leaf (Persicaria odorata) has a peppery and citrus-like aroma.
  • Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) offers a calming scent and prefers bright, drier locations.
  • Sweet Leaf (Stevia rebaudiana) has a naturally sweet taste and is commonly used as a plant based sweetener.

Your Lifestyle

Most herbs need four to six hours of direct sunlight daily and frequent watering. Basils such as Thai Basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora) and Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) grow quickly and can be productive when cared for consistently.

Herbs, like all plants, adapt to their environment. For example, when sunlight is limited herbs may become tall, leggy and weak in a process known as etiolation. Conversely, healthy herbs usually grow compact and sturdy. Choosing plants that suit your routine will make the gardening experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Corridor Friendly Herb Gardening Practices

If you plan to grow herbs along your corridor, a few simple habits help keep the shared space safe and pleasant.

  • Select a spot that is well ventilated and bright.
  • Use racks and stands to keep pots off the ground.
  • If you hang pots, place them securely on the inside of the building. Avoid hanging pots from corridor ceilings.
  • Arrange pots neatly and keep walkways unobstructed.
  • Maintain at least 1.2 meters of clear walking space.

Keeping Your Herbs Healthy

Here are some common symptoms to observe and what they usually indicate.

1. Yellowing or Pale Leaves

This may be caused by one of three issues:

  • Lack of sunlight. Move the herb to a brighter spot.
  • Lack of water or excessive watering. Check the soil by touching it.
    • If the soil is dry, water at the base of the plant.
    • If the soil is consistently damp, root rot may be forming. Repotting or propagating may be needed. Always use pots with drainage to prevent future rot.

2. Presence of Pests

Pests such as aphids or spider mites usually appear when a plant is stressed..

Community Edible Herb Garden: Black Aphids on herbs
Black Aphids on herbs- express.co.uk

Steps to take:

  • Isolate the affected plant to prevent pests from spreading.
  • Apply organic pesticides such as neem oil.
  • Keep treated plants away from pets and young children. Neem oil is organic but it is toxic to pets and human when ingested.

Where to Get Herbs and Planting Information

Gardening becomes more manageable when you observe your plants and make small adjustments along the way. It is a steady and rewarding process built on patience and curiosity.

For guidance, visit our nurseries at Jurong Play Grounds or Sungei Tengah. You can also reach us through WhatsApp or Instagram. Our team will be happy to help you find herbs that match your space and lifestyle.

Every home can grow something green and every gardener begins with a single plant.

Written with the help of:

World Farm Plant Care Expert- Assistant Sales Manager Guan

Guan

Assistant Sales Manager, World Farm

With over 20 years in horticulture, Guan has shared his expertise at industry events and in national media such as The Business Times. His philosophy is simple: “When you understand your plants, they’ll reward you beautifully.”

EEAT Profile- Jesse

Jesse

ISA certified arborist | Director, World Farm

Jesse admits he doesn’t have “green fingers”, in fact, he jokes that he started with black thumbs. But over time, he’s learned that anyone can grow plants successfully with the right guidance, environment, and care. His belief drives World Farm’s mission to make gardening accessible and enjoyable for everyone, no matter where they live.

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