Early spring is one of the best times to start growing herbs outdoors. The soil begins to warm, sunlight sticks around longer, and rain helps keep young plants from drying out. For beginners and experienced gardeners alike, herbs are a great starting point. They don’t need a ton of space, they’re useful in the kitchen, and many are low-maintenance. Some can even handle chilly nights without trouble.
This article explains which herbs are best to plant outdoors in early spring, how to care for them, and what to expect as they grow. It also shares tips on starting herbs from seed or transplant, whether you’re planting in the ground or using containers.
Why Plant Herbs in Early Spring?
Early spring offers cool temperatures and natural moisture. Most cold-hardy herbs do well in this season because they don’t mind the chill and they get a head start on the growing season. Starting herbs early gives them more time to grow strong before summer heat sets in.
Plus, by planting early, you avoid the rush of late spring pests and give your plants more time to mature before harvest.
Hardy Herbs for Early Spring
Some herbs are better suited for cold weather than others. These are the top choices for outdoor planting in early spring.
1. Chives
Chives are one of the earliest herbs to emerge after winter. They’re tough, survive snow, and come back every year. Their mild onion flavor is great for eggs, salads, and soups. Plant them directly in the garden or a deep pot. They need full sun and well-drained soil.
2. Parsley
Parsley is a biennial, meaning it grows leaves in the first year and flowers the second. It handles cold weather well and can be planted outdoors once the ground can be worked. Flat-leaf parsley is popular for cooking, while curly parsley adds visual appeal.
3. Thyme
Thyme is a low-growing perennial with tiny leaves that pack a strong flavor. It prefers sun and dry soil. Once it gets established, thyme needs little care and can survive tough weather. Great for roasted meats and vegetables.
4. Oregano
Oregano is a cousin of mint and grows in clumps or spreads. It loves full sun and tolerates rocky or poor soil. Hardy varieties like Greek oregano can survive in colder areas if protected during freezes. Use it in tomato sauces or pizza.
5. Sage
Sage is another hardy herb that comes back year after year. It has soft, gray-green leaves and a strong flavor. Plant sage in a sunny spot with good drainage. Prune it lightly in spring to encourage new growth.
6. Mint
Mint is easy to grow but needs to be contained—it spreads quickly and can take over a garden bed. Plant it in pots if you want to keep it under control. It handles cool temperatures and thrives in part sun to full sun.
7. Chamomile
Chamomile has delicate flowers that look like small daisies. It’s known for its calming effects, especially when brewed into tea. German chamomile is annual and fast-growing; Roman chamomile is a perennial ground cover. Both can be planted early.
8. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is in the mint family and shares its love for cooler weather. It smells citrusy and works well in tea or desserts. This plant grows best in rich soil and part sun. It will spread over time if left unchecked.
9. Cilantro
Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures and bolts quickly in the heat. That makes spring an ideal time to grow it. Sow the seeds directly into garden beds and keep the soil moist. It grows fast and is great for salsas and curries.
Tips for Planting Herbs in Early Spring
Know Your Frost Dates
The last frost date in your area is a key factor. Hardy herbs can go in the ground a few weeks before the last frost. Less hardy ones should wait until the risk of frost is mostly gone.
Pick the Right Spot
Most herbs prefer full sun—at least 6 hours a day. Choose a spot that drains well. If your soil is heavy, mix in compost or plant in raised beds.
Use Containers for Flexibility
Containers are helpful if you’re unsure about soil quality or want to move plants inside if a cold snap hits. Make sure pots have drainage holes and don’t let them dry out.
Start Seeds Indoors for a Head Start
You can get a head start by sowing seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting them outside. Use seed trays or small pots with seed-starting mix. Keep them near a sunny window or under a grow light.
Transplant Carefully
Wait until seedlings have a few sets of true leaves before transplanting. Harden them off by putting them outside for a few hours a day, increasing the time gradually over a week. This helps them adjust to outdoor conditions.
Soil and Fertilizer Basics
Herbs don’t need heavy feeding. Most grow fine in average soil with compost mixed in. If you’re using pots, a balanced potting mix works well.
Use a light fertilizer—like diluted fish emulsion or compost tea—about once a month after herbs have grown a few inches. Avoid over-fertilizing; too much can reduce flavor.
Mulch helps keep soil moist and stops weeds. Use straw, shredded bark, or even grass clippings. Just don’t pile it against plant stems.
Watering Guidelines
Newly planted herbs need regular water until they’re established. Aim to keep the soil lightly moist, not soggy. Once mature, many herbs (like thyme, sage, and oregano) prefer to dry out a bit between waterings.
Herbs in containers dry out faster than those in the ground. Check pots daily during dry spells.
Common Problems and How to Handle Them
- Cold snaps – Cover young herbs with a frost cloth or plastic sheet supported by stakes. Don’t let the covering touch the plants directly.
- Pests – Aphids and slugs are common. Blast aphids off with water. Use crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth to deter slugs.
- Overwatering – Yellowing leaves or mushy stems can mean too much water. Let soil dry out before watering again.
Harvesting Your Herbs
Most herbs can be picked once the plant has several inches of growth. Use clean scissors or pinch with your fingers. Don’t take more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Regular harvesting encourages more growth. Flowering often makes herbs bitter or slows leaf production, so pinch off buds unless you want seeds.
Herbs That Don’t Like Early Spring
Not all herbs handle cold. Wait to plant these until the weather is warm:
- Basil – It hates cold. Even a light frost can kill it.
- Lemongrass – Needs consistent heat to thrive.
- Stevia – Prefers warm soil and steady sunlight.
- Rosemary – Can tolerate mild cold but often suffers in frost unless well protected or grown in a container that can be brought inside.
Good Combinations
You can group herbs in the same container or garden bed, but pair them wisely:
- Mediterranean herbs like thyme, oregano, rosemary, and sage like dry soil and full sun.
- Moisture-loving herbs like parsley, cilantro, and chives prefer richer, more consistent moisture.
Avoid planting mint with others unless it’s in its own pot.
What to Do After Spring
Some herbs will thrive through summer and into fall. Others bolt or go dormant once it gets hot. Keep harvesting, trim back woody stems, and keep an eye on plant health.
In late summer, you can start new rounds of cool-season herbs like cilantro or parsley for fall use.
For perennials like thyme and sage, prune lightly and mulch in fall to protect the roots over winter.
Final Thoughts
Early spring is a smart time to plant hardy herbs. They’re dependable, easy to grow, and give you fresh flavor long before summer veggies are ready. Choose herbs that match your growing conditions and climate, and you’ll have a healthy, useful garden without a lot of fuss.
Whether you’re growing in a raised bed, a few pots on the patio, or straight in the soil, herbs can add life and flavor to your garden and your meals. Just start with the basics, keep your expectations realistic, and learn from each season.
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