Grow your own cocktail ingredients

Green-fingered Brits are being encouraged to grow cocktail ingredients in their garden to make refreshing beverages this summer.

The experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have provided their top tips on how to create a cocktail garden and which herbs and fruits to grow.

A cocktail garden is a garden space dedicated to herbs, fruits, and other ingredients that can be used for making delicious homemade cocktails.

The best thing about creating a cocktail garden is that it doesn’t require much space, so it’s perfect for small gardens and apartments too.

Most of the cocktail ingredients can easily be grown in garden beds or containers in a bright spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight.

It’s important to make sure to water regularly as container gardens can dry out quickly but make sure that the containers have drainage holes so the roots don’t sit in standing water.

The perfect cocktail garden typically includes a variety of herbs, fruits, berries, spices and edible flowers but gardeners can completely personalise their gardens based on which drinks they enjoy the most.

Chris Bonnett, the founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “There’s nothing better than sipping on a delicious cocktail in your garden on a sunny day, especially if it’s made with homegrown fresh ingredients.

“In the light of the cost-of-living crisis, edible gardens have grown in popularity and now people are also exploring the concept of cocktail gardens to really maximize the use of their gardens.

“This emerging trend is great for those who have limited outdoor space and it’s also perfect for beginners because it’s pretty easy.

“You can opt for typical herbs and fruits that go in popular drinks, but don’t forget that there are no rules as to what you can include in your cocktail garden so you can also experiment with some more niche ingredients like chilli peppers and edible flowers.

“Having a cocktail garden can improve your cocktail-making experience by providing a wide range of flavours and aromas right at your fingertips.”

Here are GardeningExpress.co.uk‘s top ten easy-to-grow ingredients to include in your cocktail garden: 

1. Mint

Mint is one of the most common cocktail garnishes that you can throw into almost any cocktail to add a refreshing flavour. Whether you fancy a classic mojito, mint julep or a Moscow mule – add a sprig of mint and it will instantly transform your cocktail 

2. Thyme

Thyme has a unique flavour and aroma, making it an ideal herb to add a special touch to your cocktails. Use whole sprigs when muddling or infusing and avoid picking off the tiny leaves. Thyme goes well with vodka and gin cocktails, but you can also add thyme to a whiskey sour to put a little spin on the classic cocktail.

3. Rosemary

Rosemary has a piney scent and a citrusy undertone to its flavour. Rosemary can be muddled into syrup or just used as an aromatic garnish. Generally rosemary should be paired with sweet, acidic flavours like citrus, cranberry and tomato.

4. Basil

Basil has an interesting sweet and savoury flavour and is a great way to make your cocktails taste more unique. It’s a perfect herb to add to a variety of drinks, including gin and tonics, vodka sodas, and margaritas.

5. Berries

Fresh berries are great for muddling and they add a delicious sweet taste to cocktails. Blueberries and strawberries can be easily grown in containers and you can also freeze them to have fresh cocktails all year round.

6. Cucumber

Cucumber is a cool and refreshing addition to cocktails and it also does well in a container. Add some cucumber slices to your favourite drinks for a light, crisp flavour and health benefits 

7. Chilli peppers

Spice up your summer cocktails with some chilli peppers. Add chile, jalapeño, or habanero peppers to your cocktails garden to make delicious drinks like a spicy bloody Mary or a Mexican Michelada.

8. Ginger

Ginger is a bit of an unusual cocktail ingredient but it’s a perfect way to add a fresh kick of flavour. Experiment with ginger and add it to your classic Moscow mule or old fashioned drink.

9. Elderflowers

You can use elderflowers in drinks by making elderflower cordial. Elderflowers are a popular addition to some classic English beverages such as gin and tonic, collins and gin fizz cocktails. To grow elderflowers in containers use smaller elderberry varieties and get a fairly sizeable container. 

10. Violet

Violets make beautiful cocktail garnishes – just add some small floating blooms to your drink for subtle decorations. Their soft flavour and aroma can be used when infused into beverage ingredients.

https://www.gardeningexpress.co.uk/