Brixton People's Kitchen

A BPK we've spent that last few years growing slowing, but surely.

From our humble beginings as a travelling communal meal to building a bike kitchen to regualr bi weekly summer meals and now a cafe, we know that growth can be difficult, trying, exciting and sometimes not work out as planned.

Over the past two months we have been raising awareness of the cafe in the local community. There aren't places in Brixton where you can get a free cup of tea, a £4 healthy hot meal and a game of chess with supporting volunteer in a safe warm environment. So we are pleased to fill that gap. Working with the elderly we are really hearing about how isolated and lonely they feel and so we know that our cafe benfitis both the mind and the body, making it a lifeline for many of the over 55's. Growth is important.

In the spirit of growth, it's time to start sowing seeds for herbs which add such a flavour to otherwise dull food. We've planted basil, chives and parsley for salads, potato salad and tabouleh, respectively.

Here’s a guide to getting started with Herbs:

Pick the herbs you want to grow
 You can start them from seed, from old cuttings or make it really easy and buy small or dwarf plants from your local community garden or gardening shop.

Pick your pots
Each herb should have its own pot so it can be looked after properly. A good pot has drainage holes and sits on a saucer.

Plant the Herbs
Potting mix is a good soil to use to pot your plants. Steer away from soil from your garden as it has often been contaminated. Read the seed packet and follow the instructions

Look after your herbs
Place your pots in the right environment for them to thrive. Don’t let the leaves touch cold windows to look after them. Keep the soil moist but not soggy and drain the saucers after watering so roots do not sit in water. Fertilize as recommended.