Herb container gardens are a wonderful way to grow fresh herbs, even if you don’t have yard space.
With some creative container ideas, you can take advantage of herbs’ compact growth and have a portable, low-maintenance garden.
This article will provide outlines and herb container garden ideas to inspire you to plant an herb garden.
Getting Started with Herb Container Gardening
Herb container gardening has several benefits over traditional in-ground gardens. For one, containers allow you to customize where you place your herb garden.
You can follow the sun throughout the day or move pots indoors before frost. Containers also conserve space in small yards for other plantings.
With the right herb varieties and containers, you’ll be harvesting home-grown herbs in no time.
Popular Herbs for Containers
Some of the top herbs suitable for container gardening include:
| Herb | Description |
|---|---|
| Basil | Aromatic leaves add flavor to foods; try Genovese or Thai varieties. |
| Chives | Mild onion flavor; snips add flavor with few leaves. |
| Cilantro | Essential herb for Mexican and Asian cooking. |
| Mint | A variety of flavors, like peppermint or spearmint, spread quickly. |
| Oregano | Woody herbs add flavor to Italian and Greek dishes. |
| Parsley | Dark, curly or flat leaf varieties are crucial to many recipes. |
| Rosemary | Woody herbs pair well with meats and vegetables. |
| Sage | Aromatic herbs are commonly used in poultry or stuffing recipes. |
| Tarragon | Licorice-flavored leaf enlivens seafood, eggs and vinegars. |
| Thyme | Robust flavored herb, perfect for soups, stews and roasted meats. |
Container Sizing for Herbs
The container you choose will depend on the type of herbs you want to grow. As a general rule, most herb plants only need containers 8–12 inches wide.
However, some fast-spreading herbs like mint and rosemary will appreciate larger 12-inch pots that allow for more root growth.
Taller containers also provide better drainage and air circulation around the roots. Common container materials like terra cotta, plastic, and metal all work well for herbs.
Dwarf Herb Varieties
For compact container gardens or hanging baskets, look for dwarf cultivars of popular herbs. Some great options include:
- ‘Piccolo’ basil
- ‘Minima’ thyme
- ‘Santos’ mint
- ‘Compacta’ oregano
Their smaller stature makes them well-suited to tighter spaces without compromising flavor.
Unique Herb Container Garden Ideas
Whether you have a balcony, patio or windowsill, there are diverse ways to arrange herb plants creatively in containers. Here are a few inspirations for herb container garden ideas:
Hanging Herb Gardens
A hanging basket, window box or wall planter is perfect for herbs on a balcony or patio. Trailing herbs like thyme, oregano and dwarf vines supply flavor and visual appeal. Be sure to choose varieties that are not prone to wind or water stress.
Window Herb Gardens
Take advantage of a sunny windowsill to grow potted herbs indoors year-round. Snip leaves as needed for cooking without going outside. Mini parsley, chives and basil are great options.
Stacked Herb Towers
Add visual interest and maximize space by stacking different sized terra cotta or plastic pots vertically. Make sure the top soils can dry out between waterings. Some tower-friendly herbs include mini rosemary, thyme, oregano and parsley.
Porch Herb Shelves
Attach narrow boards or ready-made plant shelves underneath an overhang so your front porch provides ample sun. Group pots of rosemary, sage and winter tarragon within easy reach of the kitchen door.
Herb Wheels
Upcycle an old wagon wheel, tire or wooden dowel into a circular herb planter. Sow the wheel with a mix of edible flowers, basil and petite mustards for a whimsical accent piece.
Tips for Planting and Caring for Herb Container Gardens
Now that you have some ideas for attractive herb container displays, the next step is planting and maintaining your mini herb patch. A few basics will help your herb plants thrive:
Potting Mix for Herbs
Use a soilless, nutrient-rich potting mix specifically formulated for containers and edibles. It should drain well while retaining enough moisture.
Planting and Spacing Herbs
Fill your container 2/3 full with moistened soil, gently pressing soil around roots. Leave 4-6 inches between small plants and 8–12 inches for larger varieties.
Watering Herb Gardens
Check the soil daily and water thoroughly when the top inch feels dry. Herbs prefer consistent moisture over infrequent deep watering. Drip irrigation keeps the soil evenly moist.
Fertilizing Herb Containers
During the growing season, fertilize container herbs monthly with a balanced, water-soluble plant food meant for edible gardens. Follow label instructions for best results.
Harvesting Herbs
For sustained production, only harvest leaves or stems as needed rather than whole stems at once. Cut just above-leaf joints or just under flowers. Harvest in the morning after dew for maximum essential oils.
Winter Care and Indoor Herbs
Before fall frosts, move tender herbs like basil, cilantro and parsley indoors to a bright, draft-free spot. Hardier herbs can spend winter in an unheated garage or similar protected area. Water only when soil is dry.
Pruning Herbs
Periodic pruning throughout the season encourages bushier growth. Simply trim back tall stems or entire plants by a quarter to a third after harvests or flowering. This maintains an attractive shape and stimulates new growth.