Herb Growing Guide
Herbs are some of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow. They thrive in small spaces, grow well indoors or outdoors, and add incredible flavor to meals. But choosing the right location, watering properly, and knowing when to harvest can still feel confusing for new gardeners.
This guide gives you the simple, trusted steps you need to grow herbs that thrive – whether they’re planted in garden beds, raised beds, pots, or your kitchen windowsill.
Set Your Herbs Up for Success
Choose the right light
Most herbs grow best with 6 hours of direct sunlight, though many tolerate partial shade.
Prepare well-draining soil
Herbs dislike soggy soil. Use loose, well-drained soil or potting mix. Add a little compost, but avoid overly rich soil - it can lead to weaker flavor.
Pick the right container (if planting in pots)
Choose pots with drainage holes. Herbs like basil, parsley, and cilantro grow well in medium pots; rosemary and mint prefer slightly larger containers.
Understand annual vs. perennial herbs
• Annuals: Basil, cilantro, dill
• Perennials: Rosemary, oregano, thyme, sage, chives, mint
This helps you plan where to plant each one.
Planting Herb Seeds
Plant lightly
Water gently
Keep soil moist until seeds sprout, then water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Start indoors or outdoors
Give herbs space
Caring for Your Herb Plants
Water consistently, but not excessively
Pinch and prune to encourage growth
Feed sparingly
Rotate herbs indoors
Watch for pests and disease
Harvesting Herbs
Harvest often
Basil
Parsley & cilantro
Rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage
Chives
Growing Herbs Indoors and in Small Spaces
Choose herbs that thrive indoors
Basil, parsley, chives, oregano, thyme, and mint are great indoor herbs.
Use bright windowsills or grow lights
South- or west-facing windows work best.
Avoid overwatering
Indoor containers dry differently than outdoor soil; check often but water sparingly.
Grow herbs together
Group herbs with similar moisture needs for easier care.
Try compact varieties
Herbs from the Urban Garden line are ideal for small pots, balconies, and patios.
Quick Fixes for Healthy, Flavorful Herbs
Leggy, stretched herbs
Yellowing leaves
Insufficient light – move plants to a sunnier spot.
Weak flavor
Herbs bolting (flowering too early)
Slow growth
Herb Growing FAQs
Shop Urban Garden Seeds
Recommended Seeds for Herb Gardens
Liberty Garden – Easy, dependable herbs
Page Premium – Wide selection for cooking and flavor exploration
Heirloom Seeds – Exceptional aroma and traditional herb varieties
Organic Seeds – Grow herbs naturally and chemical-free
Urban Garden – Compact herbs perfect for containers and kitchens
