The Easiest Herbs to Grow Outdoors in Pots

Herbs can be grown in any size container, but terra cotta pots are the most attractive. You can also grow these plants in plastic, wood, metal, and other containers. Just make sure that the container has drainage holes or a drip plate. Herbs should be watered only once a week. For best results, fertilize your herb plants about every two weeks to keep them lush and healthy.

Growing herbs in pots is a great way to have a fresh supply of herbs right at your doorstep. Many herbs are easy to grow in pots, and they don’t require a lot of space or specialized equipment. Here are some of the easiest herbs to grow outdoors in pots:

1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) — Basil is one of the most popular herbs for pot growing. It loves warm weather and plenty of sunlight. Just make sure it has well-draining soil and doesn’t stay too soggy.
2. Mint (Mentha) — Mint is incredibly hardy and can thrive in almost any condition. It’s a good idea to grow mint in its own pot, as it can be quite invasive.
3. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) — Chives are very low-maintenance and can be grown in pots. They produce delicate onion-flavored leaves that can be used in various dishes.
4. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) — Parsley is a biennial herb that’s easy to grow in pots. It prefers partial shade and well-draining soil.
5. Cilantro/Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) — Cilantro is a cool-weather herb that can be grown in pots. It’s relatively low-maintenance but may bolt quickly in hot weather.
6. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) — Rosemary is a hardy herb that can thrive in pots. It prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight.
7. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) — Thyme is a low-maintenance herb that does well in pots. It’s drought-tolerant and can withstand some neglect.
8. Oregano (Origanum vulgare) — Oregano is a great choice for pot growing. It likes full sun and well-draining soil.
9. Sage (Salvia officinalis) — Sage is another hardy herb that grows well in pots. It’s drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil.
10. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) — Lavender can be grown in pots, and it adds a lovely fragrance to your outdoor space. It prefers well-draining soil and lots of sunlight.
11. Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) — Tarragon can be grown in pots, and it has a distinct anise-like flavor. It prefers well-draining soil and partial to full sun.
12. Dill (Anethum graveolens) — Dill is relatively easy to grow in pots and can be used in a variety of dishes. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil.

Gardening Tips For Growing Herbs Outdoors In Pots

Growing herbs outdoors in pots can be a rewarding and relatively low-maintenance gardening activity. Here are some tips to help you successfully grow herbs in pots:

1. Choose the Right Containers — Select pots or containers with good drainage. Herbs don’t like to sit in waterlogged soil, so ensure that the containers have drainage holes at the bottom.
2. Select the Right Soil — Use a well-draining potting mix that is appropriate for herbs. You can buy a pre-made herb potting mix or create your own by mixing regular potting soil with perlite or sand to improve drainage.
3. Location Matters — Place your herb pots in a location that receives the appropriate amount of sunlight. Most herbs prefer full sun, so choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Some herbs, like mint and parsley, can tolerate partial shade.
4. Watering — Herbs generally prefer slightly moist soil. Water your herbs when the top inch of soil feels dry, but don’t let the pots sit in standing water. Overwatering can be more damaging than underwatering. Use a saucer under the pot to catch excess water and allow the pots to drain properly.
5. Pruning and Harvesting — Regularly prune and harvest your herbs to encourage bushier growth and prevent them from going to seed. Pinch or cut off the tips of the stems to promote new growth. Use the harvested herbs in your cooking.
6. Fertilize Sparingly — Herbs usually don’t need a lot of fertilizer. You can use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as it can lead to excessive growth with reduced flavor.
7. Mulch — Consider adding a layer of organic mulch like straw or compost to help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. This is especially beneficial during hot or dry periods.
8. Companion Planting — Plant herbs that complement each other’s growth requirements together in the same pot. This can create a mini herb garden in one container and promote healthier growth.
9. Pest Control — Keep an eye out for pests and address them promptly. Many herbs are naturally pest-resistant, but occasional issues can still arise. Use organic pest control methods if necessary.
10. Support for Tall Herbs — Some herbs like rosemary or tarragon can grow quite tall. Use stakes or trellises to support them if needed, so they don’t become top-heavy and tip over.
11. Winter Care — If you live in a region with cold winters, consider bringing your potted herbs indoors or providing protection when the temperature drops. Herbs like rosemary and thyme may survive the winter outdoors with some protection.
12. Repot as Needed — As your herbs grow, they may become root-bound in their pots. If you notice reduced growth or signs of stress, consider repotting them into slightly larger containers.