Little Step No. 11
What to do:
Plant a pot of herb seeds
Why this step works:
Well this is very exciting! I did a bit of gardening at the weekend and tidied up the herb patch that we created last spring; a lockdown project that has become symbolic of so much more than a space to grow herbs.
When I spotted my chives peeping through on Sunday (see picture above!), it took me back to April last year, when I first decided to plant some seeds (see picture below!). Planting seeds felt like something useful and hopeful to do amidst the then growing landscape of worry and uncertainty; so I gathered seed packets, compost & pots and set to work.
I surprised myself. Unlike many previously failed attempts at growing things, I actually managed to look after the herb seeds, and they flourished! In fact, they were such a success that we decided to create a permanent home for them, just outside the kitchen, so we’d have regular access to fresh herbs.
For me back then, planting seeds was a bit like planting some hope in the garden. Planting seeds is also a bit like starting a new habit - you plant, water and look after the seeds because you have faith that they will eventually grow into something. Similarly, when you make a small change to your diet or lifestyle, it’s because you have faith that these repeated positive habitual actions will add up to something worthwhile over time.
“Is there any symbol more redolent of regeneration than a seed...A tiny start with the promise of plenty.”
Barney Bardsley 'A Handful of Earth'
My seeds grew, we made a herb patch and now, with very little effort needed, here the herbs are emerging again, ready to add flavour and powerful plant compounds into our meals.
All you need for this little step is a packet of seeds, a plant pot, some compost and a warm windowsill. Water regularly and you'll soon have some fresh herbs to add to your meals. Trust me, after putting this off for literally years, I've now realised it's a lot easier and less time-consuming than you'd think.
And whilst you're waiting for your herb seedlings to grow, why not add some fresh herbs onto your shopping list this week so you can benefit from adding extra plant goodness into your diet straight away.
I'd love to hear how you get on x