November marks the transition into winter, bringing cooler temperatures and shorter days. As many of your herbs begin to slow down, it’s time to focus on harvesting, preserving, and preparing your garden for the colder months ahead. In this post, we’ll explore which herbs to care for in November, best practices for maintaining their health, and how to align your gardening activities with the moon phases for optimal planting and harvesting.

Front Yard (Shaded): Caring for Hardy Herbs

In your front yard, the cooler, shaded conditions are perfect for nurturing hardy herbs that can withstand the approaching winter. November is crucial for ensuring these herbs are well-prepared for the colder months.

Herbs to Care for in Shaded Areas:

• Chives: As temperatures drop, chives will start to slow their growth. Continue to harvest any remaining leaves, but be mindful not to overharvest. You can also cover them with fleece or mulch to protect against frost.
• Parsley: Parsley can often survive light frosts. Continue to snip the outer leaves as needed, and consider harvesting any remaining leaves for drying or freezing.
• Mint: Mint may begin to die back as temperatures drop. Harvest the last of the leaves for drying, and consider cutting back the plant to promote healthier growth come spring.

Shaded Herb Care Tips:

• Watering: As the weather cools, reduce watering frequency. Ensure that soil drains well to prevent waterlogging, which can damage roots.
• Fleece Protection: For any tender herbs, consider using fleece to protect them from early frost and harsh winter conditions.

Back Yard (Sunny): Wrapping Up Mediterranean Herbs

In your back yard, sunny conditions have supported your Mediterranean herbs. November is the time to ensure these herbs are well-prepared for the winter.

Herbs to Tend to in Sunny Areas:

• Basil: If your basil is still thriving, it may be time to harvest any remaining leaves before frost hits. Consider making pesto or basil-infused oil to preserve its flavour.
• Oregano: Oregano should still be productive. Harvest leaves regularly, and dry them for winter use.
• Sage: Sage is hardy and can survive colder weather. Continue harvesting leaves for fresh use, and dry some for winter cooking.

Sunny Herb Care Tips:

• Watering: Ensure your sunny herbs receive adequate water early in the month but reduce it as temperatures drop. Monitor for frost and adjust watering accordingly.
• Mulching: Apply mulch around your pots to help insulate roots and retain moisture as temperatures cool.

Harvesting and Using Your Herbs

November is a fantastic time for harvesting the last of your herbs. Use this opportunity to gather fresh flavours for your autumn and winter meals.

November Harvesting Tips:

• Chives: Continue to snip any remaining chives, using the leaves in soups and salads.
• Parsley: Harvest any excess parsley and consider drying or freezing for future use.
• Mint: Use the last of your mint leaves in drinks and dishes, and dry the rest for later.

Moon Phase Tips: Aligning Gardening with Lunar Cycles

November’s moon phases can provide excellent guidance for your gardening activities. Aligning your tasks with the lunar cycle can enhance your gardening practices.

New Moon (mid-November): Time for Preparation

The New Moon is a great time for planning your winter garden. Consider which herbs you’d like to start indoors or which pots to bring inside. This lunar energy supports new beginnings, so focus on your garden’s needs for the upcoming months.

Full Moon (late November): Perfect for Harvesting and Preservation

As the Full Moon approaches, it’s an ideal time to gather any remaining harvests. Use this time to dry or freeze herbs to ensure you have fresh flavours for winter cooking.

Conclusion: November is a Month of Reflection and Preparation

November is an essential month in your herb garden, filled with opportunities for harvesting, care, and preparation for winter. By focusing on the needs of your shaded and sunny herbs, you can maximise their health and yield. Aligning your gardening activities with the moon phases can further enhance your success, allowing you to fully embrace the changing season. Enjoy the flavours from your herb garden this November, and prepare for the quieter months ahead.

Blessed be!

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