Whether you are short on space or just want to have easy access to them, growing herbs in pots is something everyone can do. Find out which pots do well in small containers and where to place them for the best results.
Easy-to-grow herbs in pots: Almost all herbs do well in containers, including basil, oregano, rosemary, and mint. Some herbs will take over your whole garden, so planting them in pots keeps them contained. Having herbs in containers also makes it more convenient to use them while cooking.
Is it easy to grow herbs in pots?
Yes, it is very easy to grow herbs in pots, which is why so many people garden this way. Furthermore, if you grow herbs in pots, they can be closer to your kitchen, like on a windowsill or on a balcony, which makes it easier to use them in cooking.
Just be sure you know the light requirements for your herbs. Most herbs prefer full sunlight, so place them in an area that is nice and bright.
You should also be aware of watering considerations as many herbs prefer moist soil but don’t like their roots to become soggy. As for soil, this can vary greatly as some herbs prefer sandy soil without many nutrients while others are heavy feeders.
15 Easy-to-Grow Herbs in Pots
Basil
An all-purpose herb, basil can be used in a variety of recipes so it makes sense to have this plant nearby when you’re cooking. There are many types of basil, so you can find one that you like or plant a few for more variety.
Basil loves full sun and warmth, so be sure to wait until the threat of frost has passed if you are planting it outside. Furthermore, don’t be afraid to harvest it as needed as this will make the plant produce more leaves, giving you more opportunity to enjoy it.
Rosemary
Unlike many other plants on this list, rosemary is a hardy shrub and if you plant it in a container outside, it will continue to grow each year, as long as the winters aren’t too cold. It is a shrub so keep pruning it so the base doesn’t become too woody.
Rosemary is perfect in many meat dishes and you can easily snip off branches for your meals, which helps to keep the plant pruned back. While rosemary doesn’t like its soil to dry out, it won’t survive in soggy soil.
Thyme
One of the best herbs for container gardening is thyme. While it can be forgotten in cooking, you can elevate the taste by selecting a lemon-flavored variety.
Thyme does especially well in containers because it is drought-tolerant. If you forget to water it or go away on vacation, it will still survive.
Mint
On a hot summer’s day, nothing is as refreshing as mint. Whether you want to liven up a salad or enjoy a refreshing drink, a few mint leaves can go a long way.
Mint will also survive the winter in more temperate climates. Also, mint likes to take hold so planting in a container will stop it from taking over the rest of your garden.
Oregano
Italian food lovers, rejoice! Oregano is very easy to grow in a container, especially as it keeps it from spreading to the rest of your garden.
Like other herbs, there are many varieties of oregano so you can choose from subtle to more intense flavors. You can easily harvest oregano for cooking or as a garnish for your meals.
Parsley
While there are many varieties of parsley, you should start by deciding if you want a flat-leaved or curly option. Then, you can go ahead and plant seeds in your container, although it’s best if they are started indoors.
Parsley does best in full sun but if it is in dappled shade, it will still grow. Keep the soil moist but not wet.
Lavender
You may not think of lavender as a herb but it is edible and can be used in many different ways. From adding a fragrant element to baking to steeping it in tea for a sleeping aid, lavender is very versatile.
What’s really great about lavender is that it will overwinter in most climates. Keep trimming it back and you will have new growth each year.
Sage
Like rosemary and lavender, sage will grow to be a bushy plant so it does best if you regularly trim it. If not, the base will become quite woody.
One of the benefits of growing sage in a container is that it is easier to keep it trimmed. It will grow back each year but may not be in the best condition after four or five years.
Cilantro
While cilantro can be quite the divisive plant, if you love the peppery taste to it, having fresh cilantro available while you cook will really elevate your meals.
One thing to keep in mind with cilantro is that it goes to seed quite quickly. Prevent this from happening by constantly harvesting or by spacing out your planting for a continuous harvest.
Chives
Chives are one of those amazing perennials that keep coming back, no matter what. One chive plant will spread out and offer enough tendrils to last the whole summer.
During fall, simply cut back whatever is left of the plant. Then, in late spring you will have new chives to harvest.
Sorrel
Looking to broaden your herb horizon? Sorrel can be added to salads for a zesty lemon flavor or can be cooked for a subtler option.
Sorrel is a perennial and its root structure will spread out, which is why it is perfect for container gardening. You can even divide the plant each year if you want to spread the joy to your friends or neighbors.
Marjoram
Closely related to oregano, marjoram is sweeter and has a milder taste to it. It works well in Italian dishes as well as savory meals.
Plant marjoram in a location that gets full sun. It won’t grow year round unless it is inside and then, it can grow up to 2 feet tall.
Tarragon
The beauty of tarragon is that it is not a fussy plant. It can grow in poor soil that is sandy and does well in full sun.
Tarragon is an excellent addition to potatoes, beets, and green beans. It does even better if you plant it with lavender or rosemary as the scents will work together.
Lemon balm
If you plant lemon balm in your garden, you will quickly have a problem with your hands. This is because the herb self-sows, which is why keeping it contained in a container is recommended.
Lemon balm does best in partial shade or full sun. Use potting soil that is rich in nutrients and drains well.
Lemon verbena
If you live in a tropical area, this herb will grow year-round. If not, be prepared to keep it as an annual.
Lemon verbena has a lovely citrus scent to it and can liven up any stir-fry or meal. It prefers soil that doesn’t have a lot of nutrients, which means less work on your part.
What are the easiest herbs to grow in pots?
While all herbs have requirements for soil, light, and water, some are less picky than others. If you want to find the easiest herbs, look for ones that don’t require a strict schedule.
Thyme is an excellent, easy herb to grow as it can go long periods of time between watering. Tarragon is also able to grow in a variety of circumstances.
If you don’t want to go through the hassle of planting new herbs each year, try perennials. These will withstand colder winter temperatures so they will still be alive the following year.
Perennials such as rosemary and lavender are very hardy. Mint and lemon balm are also good options.
Which herbs go well together in pots?
When planting different herbs together in a container, you should pay attention to how they smell. You don’t want two strong scents together that will overpower each other.
Combining citrus scents, such as lemon verbena and lemon balm will complement each other. You could also pair them with mint for a fresh bouquet.
For an earthier palette, you can plant rosemary, sage, and lavender together. These plants are all perennials so they will grow together in harmony.
Which herbs do well in small pots?
For very small containers, choose herbs that are annuals, not perennials. This way they will die off at the end of summer and you won’t have to worry about repotting them.
Basil and cilantro won’t survive cold temperatures and will be fine in smaller containers. You should also choose small pots for herbs you don’t use a lot as the small room will confine them and ensure they don’t cause too much work for you.
Conclusion
Even if you don’t have a lot of space, you can still plant and grow herbs. Use containers to keep them from spreading to other parts of your garden and keep them close to your kitchen so you can use them freely.
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