Some herbs can survive the winter months even though we tend to think they are delicate and not able to withstand the rigours of cold.
You can also consider planting the herbs in containers so that you can move them around the garden or even indoors for more protection.
Thyme is a hardy winter herb and is beneficial to other plants. Although its growing season is in the warmer months, thyme is the perfect choice for the winter herb garden. Not only is it frost hardy but it also copes with dry conditions, and the low-growing varieties can give you a groundcover that stays green even in the coldest months. Its health benefits include being an antiseptic and good in fighting colds and bronchial infections.
Sage
Sage needs a little more nurturing than thyme and its growth tends to slow down and the leaves get smaller in winter. Plant it in well-drained soil in full sun.
Rosemary
Rosemary (featured in the main image of this article) is a perennial herb, which means that it can be grown year-round, and sturdy enough to defend itself against icy temperatures. It is helpful as a cognitive stimulant (“Rosemary for remembrance”), as well as boosting the immune system and blood circulation.
Parsley
Parsley is also beneficial to other plants, needs full sun and fertile soil, which should be kept moist. Generous mulching will help to protect it against lower temperatures. To harvest, snip leaves off several plants rather than one. New growth comes from the middle of the plant, so harvest the outside leaves.
Oregano
Oregano is one of the more robust winter herbs, easily withstanding winter frost. It likes full sun and has a beneficial effect on neighbouring plants, as it is a deterrent to aphids and some other pests.
Yarrow
Yarrow is of immense value in the garden because it accumulates nutrients and recycles them back into the soil, improving quality and benefitting all nearby plants. It is also of benefit in compost, speeding up decomposition.