Q&A with Jekka McVicar, VMH

Our aim goes far beyond delving into recipes and teaching culinary techniques; we intend to promote sustainable eating as an essential part of preserving humans’ relationship with nature. As such, we invite anyone who shares this same conviction or has a secret family recipe they would like to share with the rest of us to visit us online or contact us at [email protected] for all collaborations and submissions. Let’s show appreciation for those that dedicate their lives using natural deliciousness to establish meaningful human bonds through cuisine!

For now, love yourself and enjoy this one ... 

In the past two years, we, like many other businesses, large and small, have seen a significant increase in our online presence, both on our website and social media. We thought now was the perfect time to conduct a Q&A session with founder Jekka McVicar in order to learn more about her background and passion for herbs.

Background to Jekka's

How did you become a horticulturist and herb grower?

My mother, who is a great cook, was inspired by my grandmother in the 1940s and 1950s who wrote cookbooks like Food for Pleasure and Lovely Food. Food has been an important part of my life since childhood. My mother's cooking always included fresh herbs and vegetables that she grew in her garden.

When a neighbor came to my semi-detached house in Bristol, and asked "Jekka have you any French Tarragon?" I decided that growing herbs was not only for fun but also a profitable business. I'm making an Elizabeth David recipe". The time was before supermarkets began selling fresh herbs, and French Tarragon wasn't widely available. It made me realize that I could do this and there was a demand for fresh culinary herb.

Do you want to learn more? Check out the History of Jekka’s.

Your husband Mac, your daughter Hannah, and your son Alistair are all involved in the farm. What is everyone's role in the family like?

About 20 years ago, my husband joined me in full-time. He is very practical and does everything, from wiring the farm to building the herbum. Alistair is the chef and does all the technical work. My daughter does all the illustrations and artwork. We are proud of our family's first Jekka’s HerbFest, which took place in 2021. It was a three-day celebration of herbs, with talks, demonstrations and presentations from top chefs, garden designers, and herbalists.

How have you managed to survive the difficult times for small businesses over the past two years?

The last two years have been very difficult, particularly since the government decided in January 2021 to close nurseries while keeping garden centres open. All nurseries had to close for Easter. This is usually our busiest time of year, when everyone begins gardening.

We were fortunate as we had just redesigned our website, rebranded the business and enhanced how we were seen by Google. We were able sell seeds, seed kit, herbal infusions, and illustrated gifts via mail order while the herb farm was closed.

Browse our Online Shop to find gifts, seeds, and gardening tools.

Jekka’s herb collection

Jekka, you have over 400 culinary herbs in your collection. How do you select new ones to add?

All of the herbs I have in my collection must be grown sustainably, and they are usually used for medicinal or culinary purposes. All the herbs I have in my collection are able to be grown in Britain, but some may require more care. Currently, I'm adding new varieties that were grown on my herb farm to my collection. You can find them online at Jekkapedia. They usually begin with 'Jekka's.

Jekka develops her varieties by observing what grows naturally on the herb farm and in the Herbetum. If the plant reappears in a few years, I'll see if I have a way to propagate it so that it will run true. Then they are potted to see if they survive both inside and out. It will be sold if it passes through all the stages. It could therefore take 8-10 years for a Jekka’s variety to be developed. The process is long, but I am confident that the product I create will survive and grow in other gardens. Recently, I added Jekka’s Buddleia mint which appeared at the end the mint beds. The plant is covered with pollinators, and it literally hums in bloom.

You started selling seeds last year, but they are not herbs.

In fact, the word vegetable was only introduced to the English language in the 16th and 17th centuries. Before that, vegetables were known as pot herbs. All your traditional vegetables, then, are actually pot herbs. This is herbs that you use in one pot to cook and not plants grown in pots. Pomegranate is one of the fruits I grow in addition to vegetables. It is good to drink the juice if you have a bad stomach.

Do you want to learn more? Check out Jekka's guide on how to grow vegetables from seeds.

Why do you sell most of your plants in pots that are 2 Ltrs larger than other nurseries?

If you buy Myrtle and Rosemary plants in small pots of 8cm, they are usually only 6 months or 1 season old. It hasn't been exposed to British weather and therefore it is not hardened. It is better to plant a shrub that has been around for at least 2 to 3 years before planting it. This will increase its chances of survival. It is not enough to plant them and forget about them. You have to maintain them. It is important to have a strong, healthy plant as a starting point. It is for this reason that I sell most of my herbs now in larger pots. It is a sustainable way to garden. It is well worth reading our blog on How to Grow on Your Herbs.

How far have you gone to grow herbs?

It's been like a crossword puzzle to figure out how to grow certain herbs. Curry Leaf is the latest herb I've cracked. It is a subtropical shrub tree called Bergera Koenigii. I tried cuttings and seed sowings at different times throughout the year. Now I can share my success and sell the plants, even though there is a long waiting list.

Curious? Check out Jekka's blog: Curry Leaf.

Why do you prefer to use Latin names over common ones?

My passion is teaching the botanical names of plant species. The UK uses many different names for things, but you can always check the botanical name to see what they are. Ever wondered what is the difference between Oregano, and Marjoram. Marjoram and Oregano are the same! For example, Oregano is Origanum vulgare, meaning common Oregano and, similarly, Golden Oregano or Golden Marjoram is Origanum vulgare 'Aureum'. The same plant.

Do you want to learn more? Check out Jekka’s Guide to Oregano.

Tips on Growing Herbs

Out of over 400 culinary and medical herbs, which would you recommend to a beginner?

It is important to plant what you plan to use. If you like to make the classic Sunday Roast consisting of roast vegetables and meat, or fish sometimes, you should grow herbs such as Rosemary. Thyme. Oregano. Dill.

You should grow the herbs that you will use because, firstly, you'll enjoy eating something you've nurtured, and secondly, you maintain them by using them. To keep them in check, you need to pick them or prune them.

People make the mistake of planting exotic plants in their gardens. Hyssop is an example of a plant that's underused but still planted by people because they like the concept. If you don't prune it you can expect it to grow straggly, woody and large.

It's interesting to note that many of the herbs you use in the kitchen come from the same family. They are usually all from the Lamiaceae plant family. This includes Oregano and Marjoram. Once you've mastered your herbs, you can branch out. You can, for example, go from Rosemary and Hyssop to Winter Savory. These two herbs are both used in my cooking, and they're grown the same way.

Looking for more information? Read Jekka's guide on Growing Herbs.

What's your best gardening tip?

When I ask people " Do you sharpen your secateurs often?", the typical reply is " Whenever they look a little blunt!".

I don't think this is the best answer. For example, a chef sharpens their knives each day before using them, and a horticulturist or gardener should do the exact same. It's important to me that I sharpen and clean my secateurs each day. I also do it because I am organic. This ensures that the cuts are neat and clean. It also makes it easier to use if you have weak hands. If you use blunt blades to prune during the winter, you can damage the plant.

When it comes to gardening, pots and greenhouses, cleanliness is second only to godliness.

Do you want to learn more? Watch Jekka's video about sharpening your secateurs, or browse our garden tools.

Herbs and their uses

Jekka, how has it been working with so many famous chefs?

Chefs are always about good food. But now, teaching is a big part of their job. There is not a chef in the world who does not love herbs. This is proof that herbs can be used to make or break dishes in various ways. A chef's skill is adding the right amount of herb at the correct time.

I have had the pleasure of working with so many talented chefs. It is wonderful that we share a passion for herbs, and that I can introduce herbs to them that they've never tried. I worked at Le Manoir with Raymond Blanc and Jamie. Recently, I worked with Nathan Outlaw. He is so inspiring and wants to grow all his own herbs and vegetables for his restaurant.

Noma, the best restaurant on earth, approached us a couple of years back. I was amazed that they used herbs from my herb farm which UK chefs do not use. This means there's still much to learn about using herbs in food.

Do you want to know more about the medicinal properties of herbs?

The medicinal uses of herbs are often just as interesting to me as their culinary uses. As I am not a trained herbalist, I cannot teach people about herbs. There is a growing interest in the medicinal uses of herbs, and there are more researches being done. A lot of information about them is now available online. Rosemary, for example, is associated with memory and has been used to improve it for centuries. However, it's only recently that it has been proven to be effective. We still recommend that people consult a trained herbologist and we have partnered up with the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, who provided the medicinal section of our Jekkapedia.

Do you want to learn more? Check out Jekka's Blog The Institute

Future of herbs and Jekka's

Do You Think Herbs and Nature Should Be Included in The Curriculum For Younger Children?

As part of the school curriculum, I was able to grow and maintain plants on my allotment. We also went on nature walks, so I was able to identify a lot of trees and birds. Since a very young age I could identify birds by sight and their songs. It is sad to me that children no longer learn this as part of their schooling. It is hoped that it will soon be taught because of the growing awareness about the importance of gardening and plants for the health and wellbeing and people like RHS who champion it.

What do you like most about growing herbs, besides Jekka?

I love to teach. The "How to Grow Herbs" propagation masterclass is a 12-person course that is hands-on. During the course, I demonstrate how to properly handle herbs, how to hold tools and how to make successful cuttings. It's fun to watch people learn how to propagate plants by doing it themselves.

Looking for more information? Check Jekka’s Master Classes.

What's your future plan for Jekka?

Finally, we are getting a high speed internet line installed so that I can take online courses. The skills I've developed in the past 35+ years will be able to be taught by a much larger audience. There are also a few exciting plans that will allow us to teach, learn and grow more at the herb farm.

Do you want to know more about?

Check out the 'Jekka Seasonal Tips' series of blogs for advice on how to grow and maintain herbs. It includes information about what you can do in your herb gardens in the early spring, late summer, autumn and winter. Together, they are the foundation of Jekka’s guide on how to grow herb.

Visit the herb farm at South Gloucestershire during one of our open days, master classes, or herbal experiences. (See our event calendar).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

It is best to pick up fresh herbs whenever possible when using herbs.

Although dried herbs are convenient, they don’t provide the same benefits as fresh herbs.

Fresh herbs contain essential oils that give your food a unique flavor. These oils help preserve the nutrients within the herb.

Dried herbs lose all their flavor after drying, so they cannot replace fresh herbs.

You should only use dried herbs if you absolutely must. Otherwise, you should get your fresh herbs from the market.

What is the difference between "regular" and smoked paprika powder?

Regular Paprika Powder (Piment d'Espelette) is an essential ingredient for our recipes. We use it for its intense flavor and color. It's also used as a spice and seasoning agent. Smoked Paprika Powder (Paprika Chorizo) adds a smoky taste and aroma to dishes. Both types of Paprika Powder come from Spain, where they grow the best peppers in the world.

Smoked Paprika Powder (Chorizo Paprika) is made from red peppers, which are dried slowly in special ovens. This gives them a rich flavor. They are then ground and mixed with salt, garlic, and spices.

Regular Paprika Powder (Espelette Paprika) is made by grinding green bell peppers without additives.

How is basil used for medicinal purposes?

In ancient times, doctors would prescribe basil leaves to treat colds and coughs. Today, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gout, hay fever, indigestion, migraines, menstrual cramps, sinus infections, sore throats, ulcers, varicose veins, and more.

Basil is also known for its ability to help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, and even aging.

Basil is often referred to as "the herb of grace" because it helps us relax and unwind after stressful situations. It is also said to improve memory and concentration, boost energy levels, increase libido, and enhance athletic performance.

The list goes on and on. Basil is a versatile plant that offers a wide range of benefits for our health and well-being.

How to make herbal remedies at home?

Making herbal remedies at home is easy. All you need is fresh herbs, water, salt, and sugar. You can use any herb, depending on what you want to create.

For example, choose mint, basil, chamomile, or lemon balm to make a soothing tea. If you want to make a cooling drink, try rosemary, thyme, lavender, or eucalyptus.

All you need to do is put all the ingredients into a pot and boil them until they become soft. Strain out the herbs and serve hot.

Add honey to the boiling mixture to make a tonic drink. Honey is a preservative and will keep your herbal remedy fresh for longer.

You can also combine two or three herbs to make a more potent brew. For instance, you could mix equal parts of garlic and ginger to make a powerful antiseptic. Or you can combine equal amounts of turmeric and ginger to make a potent immune booster.

Soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it over the affected area to make a compress. Leave it for 10 minutes before removing it. Do this every day until the swelling goes down.

Make sure you consult your doctor first before using herbal remedies. Some plants may interact negatively with other medications. Also, don't take large quantities of herbs because they can cause side effects.

Should You Use Herbs and Spices for Brain Health?

Herbs and spices have been used for centuries to improve brain health. Research shows that these natural remedies may help prevent dementia and Alzheimer's. Some herbs may even boost memory.

However, no scientific evidence proves that eating an herb-rich diet can keep your mind sharp. When it comes to improving cognitive function, there are more effective ways to do it.

One study found that older adults who took 1000 mg of vitamin B6 daily had fewer mental lapses than those taking placebo pills. Another study showed that drinking coffee could increase blood flow to the brain. Other studies suggest that exercise, socialization, and sleep improve brain health.

The bottom line is that herbs and spices probably won't make much difference to your overall health. But they might give you extra energy and focus, which can come in handy during the day.

Statistics

• For those with high cholesterol, garlic supplementation appears to reduce total and/or LDL cholesterol by about 10-15% (72Trusted Source73Trusted (healthline.com)
• The herbs market is highly competitive, with over 1,000 herb suppliers and over 15,000 herbs products available in the United States alone.

External Links

[TAG32]

• Health Benefits of Culinary Herbs and Spices - PubMed


• Use of echinacea in medicine - PubMed

[TAG35]

• Detoxification and antioxidant effects of curcumin in rats experimentally exposed to mercury - Agarwal - 2010 - Journal of Applied Toxicology - Wiley Online Library

[TAG37]

• Amazon.com: Starwest Botanicals Organic Bilberries Whole, 4 Ounces: Grocery & Gourmet Food

[TAG39]

• Peppermint oil (Mintoil®) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial


• Curcumin reverses the effects of chronic stress on behavior, the HPA axis, BDNF expression, and phosphorylation of CREB

How To

What to look for in herbs?

Herbs contain natural compounds that may help treat various conditions. In addition, herbal remedies may provide relief when used along with conventional treatments.

Herbal remedies include teas, capsules, tablets, ointments, creams, lotions, oils, and topical applications. Some of these products are meant to be taken internally, while others are applied externally.

The most common uses of herbal remedies include relieving minor aches and pains, treating cold symptoms, reducing fever, controlling coughs and sore throats, easing digestion problems, soothing skin irritations, alleviating menstrual cramps, and providing general health benefits.

When buying herbs, look for the following:

• Freshly picked plants. Avoid dried herbs unless they've been stored in a cool place. If possible, buy herbs directly from farmers' markets.
• Pure extracts. These are made by extracting the active ingredients from herbs using alcohol or water. Look for 100% pure extractions.
• Certified organic herbs. Organic herbs must meet strict standards set forth by the USDA.
• Natural flavors. Many herbs have strong scents that can overwhelm other foods. Adding flavorings such as vanilla, almond, or orange helps mask their smell.
• Potency. The amount of active ingredient per unit weight varies depending on the type of herb.
• Packaging. When purchasing herbs, check the packaging to ensure that it's clean and free of chemicals.

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