Cool weather herbs to grow outside in the fall and autumn

As the crisp air of fall and autumn descends, it’s the perfect time to transform your garden into a haven for cool-weather herbs. These resilient and flavorful plants not only withstand the cooler temperatures but also add a burst of freshness to your culinary creations. Here are eight cool-weather herbs to consider growing outside during the fall and autumn months:

1. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Parsley thrives in cooler temperatures and can endure light frosts. This versatile herb adds a bright flavor and vibrant color to dishes. You can choose between flat-leaf (Italian) or curly varieties, which are excellent for garnishes, soups, and sauces.
2. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum): Chives are a hardy perennial herb that continues to flourish in cooler weather. Their mild onion flavor complements a variety of dishes. Snip the slender leaves into salads, omelets, and creamy soups to enjoy their delicate taste.
3. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum): Cilantro can handle cool temperatures and actually bolts (goes to seed) more slowly in the fall, giving you a longer harvest window. Use its leaves in salsas, curries, and as a zesty garnish. As a bonus, the seeds (coriander) can also be harvested for culinary use.
4. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): Thyme is a hardy herb that thrives in cooler weather. Its aromatic leaves add depth to roasted vegetables, stews, and meat dishes. Thyme varieties like English and French can withstand light frosts and continue to grow during fall.
5. Sage (Salvia officinalis): Sage is another cool-weather herb that develops a richer flavor as the temperature drops. Its earthy and slightly peppery taste complements savory dishes. Try using sage leaves to infuse flavor into butters or as a seasoning for roasted meats.
6. Oregano (Origanum vulgare): Oregano is well-suited for cooler weather and can even tolerate light frost. Its strong flavor enhances pasta sauces, pizzas, and Mediterranean dishes. This herb is also a great option for drying to preserve its intense taste.
7. Dill (Anethum graveolens): Dill grows well in fall gardens and provides a refreshing, tangy flavor. The feathery leaves are perfect for flavoring seafood, pickles, and dips. Allow some plants to go to seed, and you’ll have dill seeds that can be used in breads and spice blends.
8. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Lemon balm is a cold-hardy herb that offers a citrusy and minty aroma. Its leaves can be used to make calming teas, add flavor to desserts, or infuse oils and vinegars. Lemon balm is a delightful addition to your fall herb garden.

Provide well-draining soil, adequate sunlight, and occasional watering to ensure the success of your cool weather herb garden. With these flavorful and resilient herbs, your fall and autumn culinary creations are bound to impress with their freshness and taste.