Leslie Massey
Growing herbs in pots is a great way to have fresh herbs even if you have limited space. Herbs have different requirements, so it's important to select herbs with similar needs and group them together in the same pot. For example, water-loving herbs like basil, coriander, mint, and parsley can be grouped together, while herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano prefer to be kept drier. Most herbs will perform best with reliable moisture and should be grown in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Choose large pots and containers for growing herbs to ensure they have enough space to grow and access to sufficient water and nutrients.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Space | Pots are great for small spaces, patios, balconies, and windowsills. |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained, and enriched with organic matter. |
| Sunlight | Most herbs prefer full sun, but some like parsley and mint can grow in semi-shade. |
| Watering | Most herbs need reliable moisture, but some like oregano and marjoram develop stronger flavours when grown dry. |
| Grouping | Group herbs with similar water and sunlight requirements. |
| Pot size | Choose large pots to allow for root growth. |
| Pot type | Use a premium-quality potting mix that’s suitable for edibles. |
| Fertiliser | Use a fortnightly application of seaweed extract and fertiliser to promote growth. |
| Harvesting | Regularly harvest herbs grown in pots to encourage new growth. |
| Seedlings | Use seed-raising trays and transplant when seedlings are 5-10 cm tall. |
| Cuttings | Semi-hardwood cuttings of rosemary and bay will strike if placed in a warm spot. |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right herbs
Sunlight Requirements
Most herbs prefer full sun and will thrive when positioned in a spot that receives at least half a day of direct sunlight. However, some herbs, like parsley and mint, are more versatile and can grow well in semi-shade conditions as well. Group herbs with similar sunlight requirements together in the same pot to make maintenance easier.
Watering Needs
Some herbs require more water than others. Water-loving herbs like basil, coriander, mint, and parsley need regular watering and should not be allowed to dry out. On the other hand, herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano prefer drier conditions. They can tolerate drought-like situations once they are well-established. Grouping herbs with similar moisture needs will ensure they receive the care they require.
Soil and Fertiliser Considerations
Herbs generally perform best in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. When planting in pots, use a premium-quality potting mix suitable for edibles, and consider selecting an organically certified mix or a specialised herb and vegetable blend. For herbs that prefer drier conditions, allowing them to grow a little dry can intensify their flavours as their essential oils become more concentrated.
Hard Leaf vs Soft Leaf Herbs
Herbs can be broadly categorised into two groups: hard leaf herbs and soft leaf herbs. Soft leaf herbs, such as basil, coriander, parsley, and chives, have higher water content in their leaves and softer stems. They require more frequent watering and benefit from controlled-release fertilisers or fortnightly liquid fertiliser applications. Hard leaf herbs, on the other hand, can be treated a little tougher.
Your Culinary Preferences
Consider your cooking habits and flavour preferences when choosing herbs to grow. Select herbs commonly used in the types of dishes you prepare, ensuring that you will make the most of your harvest. Growing herbs that align with your culinary preferences will encourage you to incorporate them into your meals regularly.
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Preparing the soil
Selecting the Right Pot and Location
Choose a pot that is large enough to accommodate the herb's root system and allow for its growth. A container that is at least 30 cm deep and 40 cm wide is ideal for three soft leaf herbs or two hard leaf herbs. Ensure the pot has drainage holes, and cover them with small squares of fly screen to prevent the soil from falling out. Place the pot in an area that receives adequate sunlight, as most herbs prefer full sun, with at least half a day of direct sunlight.
Choosing the Right Soil and Fertilisers
Use a premium-quality potting mix specifically designed for edibles or vegetables and herbs. You can select an organically certified mix or a specialised herb and veggie blend. If you're planting seeds, add a layer of seed-raising mix before planting the seeds. For established herbs, consider using a controlled-release fertiliser in the potting mix or applying liquid fertiliser fortnightly to promote growth. Seaweed extract, for example, can help your herbs grow strong and healthy.
Grouping Herbs with Similar Needs
Different herbs have different water and sunlight requirements. Group herbs with similar needs in the same pot. For example, water-loving herbs like basil, coriander, mint, and parsley can be planted together, while herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano prefer drier conditions. This grouping will make maintenance easier and ensure the herbs' compatibility.
Soil Preparation and Planting
Before filling the pot with potting mix, cover the drainage holes to prevent the soil from escaping. Water the herbs with a solution of eco-seaweed, allowing them to drain and ensuring the root ball is fully moist. This reduces transplant shock. Then, fill the pot with the chosen potting mix and plant your herbs. Use a dibbler or a stick to create shallow planting holes, referring to the seed pack or herb variety for the correct depth and spacing.
Post-Planting Care
After planting, water the herbs generously to settle them in, ensuring the soil is soaked all the way through. For the first two weeks, hand water them daily, and then adjust the amount according to the herb's needs. Regular harvesting will promote new growth, so be sure to pick the herbs often.
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Selecting the right pot
When selecting a pot for your herbs, it's important to consider the size, material, and drainage. Firstly, choose a pot that is large enough to accommodate the herb's root system. Herbs typically require pots that are at least 20 cm wide and deep, with larger herbs like rosemary and bay tree eventually needing containers up to 40 cm wide and deep. Avoid overcrowding your pots, as herbs need airflow and space to develop their roots.
The material of the pot is also important. Terracotta and ceramic pots are popular choices as they are durable and have a natural appearance. However, these materials can be heavy, especially when filled with soil, so consider the weight when choosing a pot, especially if you plan to move it around. Plastic pots are a lightweight alternative, but they may not be as aesthetically pleasing.
Ensure your pot has adequate drainage holes at the base. Herbs prefer moist soil, but good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Cover the drainage holes with small squares of fly screen to prevent the potting mix from falling out. You can also place a saucer under the pot to catch excess water.
Finally, consider using a premium potting mix designed for edibles or vegetables and herbs. These mixes contain the nutrients needed for quick herb growth, and all you need to add is water for the first few months. You can also add a layer of compost or organic matter to improve the soil and provide additional nutrients.
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Grouping herbs with similar needs
When planting herbs in pots, it's important to group them according to their needs. While it may be tempting to squish as many herb seedlings as possible into a single container, remember that they need room to grow. Overcrowded pots can result in weak and sick herbs that compete for sunlight and nutrients.
Herbs can be broadly divided into two main groups: soft-leaf herbs and hard-leaf herbs. Soft-leaf herbs, such as basil, coriander, parsley, and chives, need to be watered more frequently and benefit from fortnightly liquid fertiliser applications. They can be grown together in a container that is at least 30 cm deep and 40 cm wide. Hard-leaf herbs, on the other hand, can be tougher and require less water.
Some herbs have different water and sunlight requirements. For example, Mediterranean herbs like thyme, oregano, and sage will do better when planted together as they have similar needs. Similarly, water-loving herbs like basil, coriander, mint, and parsley work well together, while herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano prefer to be kept drier and should be planted together.
When planting multiple herbs into one pot, consider their water and sunlight requirements, and group them accordingly. This will ensure better results and easier maintenance.
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Maintenance and harvesting
Herbs grown in pots will generally grow very fast, especially if they are getting everything they need, so they need to be harvested often. By harvesting herbs, you are doing them a favour as they love to produce new growth. Harvest herbs by snipping leaves as needed. Regular picking will not only give you herbs for the kitchen but will also keep the plants compact and vigorous, extending their overall life.
For the first two weeks, hand water the herbs daily until they settle in and then the amount can be adjusted to suit the type of herbs in each pot. A fortnightly application of seaweed extract will help them grow strong and healthy. As a rule of thumb, most herbs will perform best with reliable moisture. Some herbs, such as coriander or basil, can respond poorly to drying out. It’s likely to send them bolting to seed, shortening their season. Herbs such as oregano or marjoram develop stronger flavours if grown a little dry as their essential oils become more concentrated.
For annual herbs, regular liquid feeding will help them stay leafy and productive. For biennial and perennial herbs, liquid feed and annually apply a suitable controlled-release fertiliser. In general, the more soft-leaf herbs are harvested, the more they should be fed. Soft-leaf herbs such as basil, coriander, parsley, and chives are all annuals. Their leaves contain quite a lot of water and their stems are soft, so this group needs to be watered more frequently and should not be allowed to dry out. Since this group is also fast-growing, they benefit from a little more food in the form of controlled-release fertiliser in the potting mix or perhaps a fortnightly application of liquid fertiliser.
When planting multiple herbs into one pot, group them according to their needs. For example, Mediterranean herbs like thyme, oregano, and sage will do better when planted together in a container as they have similar sun, water, and nutrient needs. Water-loving herbs like basil, coriander, mint, and parsley work well together. Other herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano prefer being kept drier and should be planted together.
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Frequently asked questions
Choose a pot or planter that is at least 20 cm wide and deep. For larger herbs, like rosemary, you will need a pot up to 40 cm wide and deep. Use a premium-quality potting mix that is suitable for edibles. You can select an organically certified mix or a specialised herb and veggie blend.
The best herbs to grow are the ones you will use. Consider what dishes you normally cook and what flavours you enjoy. Most herbs prefer to grow in full sun, so position them in a spot where they will receive at least half a day of direct sunlight.
Sow seeds into a seed-raising tray and allow them to grow indoors or in a protected spot before transplanting them into a pot. Use a dibbler, stick, or similar to poke shallow planting holes into the mix. Refer to the back of the seed pack for correct sowing depth and spacing.
Most herbs will perform best with reliable moisture. Water your herbs regularly, especially when they have just been planted. Always water the soil, not the foliage. For the first two weeks, hand water them daily until they settle in, and then adjust the amount according to the type of herb.
Herbs grown in pots will generally grow very fast, so they need to be harvested often. Harvesting your herbs regularly will encourage plenty of new growth and extend the overall life of the herb pot.
