Make your mark

Don't know your dill from your rosemary? These stylish ceramic herb markers by Californian designer Rae Dunn are ideal for you. Presented in a simple gift box, the set of six markers will look great peeping out of your windowboxes.

29.50 from puremodern.co.uk

Easy does it

If you're completely clueless when it comes to planting your own herb garden, let this kit do the hard work for you. The three traditional pots come with basil, parsley and chives seeds as well as compost and instructions on how to grow them.

6.99 from greenfingers.com

Pots of attitude

For design afficionados, this herb stand by hip Danish brand Normann Copenhagen is a stylish and minimal alternative to traditional ceramic or terracotta pots. The white plastic pots are stacked, with a clever drainage system and come with a leafy-looking pair of scissors for you to snip your herbs.

30 from moletamunro.com

Alice Wyllie

Too cold to venture outside yet, but itching to get your green fingers into some soil? What about some planting up some herbs for your kitchen windowsill? Pretty and practical, they're a great way for anyone to introduce a little bit of greenery to their home.No matter how small your outdoor space, you'll always have a selection of fresh herbs to hand when you're cooking.

• This article was first published in The Scotsman on January 15, 2011