There’s something really satisfying about snipping fresh herbs you grew yourself. Growing in a large backyard garden, small raised bed, patio container, sunny windowsill (or all of the above) is easier than you probably think, especially when you grow your favorites to cook, garnish and share.

Why Grow Your Own Herbs?

We already mentioned the satisfaction of growing with your own two hands, but there are quite a few reasons you’ll want to consider growing your own:

• Freshness & Flavor: Homegrown herbs travel a very short distance so they’re fresher and they taste better than store-bought options.
• Cost Savings: A small investment in seeds or starter plants can yield an ongoing supply.
• Health Benefits: Herbs are nourishing additions to our diet and many have medicinal properties, supporting digestion, immunity and overall well-being.
• Sustainability: Reduce plastic waste from packaging and lower your carbon footprint.

Best Herbs to Grow for Beginners

Start small and grow what you love. If you’re new to gardening, these varieties are some of the easiest:

• Basil: A favorite for summer dishes that thrives in warm, sunny spots.
• Mint: Perfect for teas and cocktails and best grown in containers to prevent spreading.
• Parsley: Versatile and great in soups, salads and as garnishes.
• Chives: Beautiful purple flowers, rich green ingredient and garnish and mild onion taste.
• Thyme: A hardy, minty-lemon herb that adds depth to roasts and stews.

Does It Matter Where You Grow?

No! Herbs are flexible as long as they have plenty of light, something you can find in:

• Outdoor Gardens or Raised Beds: If you have the space and light, go for it!
• Pots or Window Boxes: Perfect for apartment/city dwellers’ patio, porch or balcony.
• Indoor Herb Gardens: Even closer to the kitchen and year-round potential.

What You Need to Know to Grow

First, you can do this! Second, there are a few simple things you can do to help your herbs thrive:

• Sunlight: Most need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
• Soil: Use well-draining soil with compost for added nutrients.
• Watering: Keep soil moist but avoid overwatering—herbs don’t like soggy feet.
• Pruning: Regularly pinch off leaves to encourage bushy growth.
• Fertilizing: Use organic compost or a light liquid fertilizer every few weeks and follow instructions on the label.

How to Harvest and Store Herbs

Your main goal is to maximize freshness and flavor. Keep in mind, the closer you grow to the kitchen, the easier it will be to snip and use immediately. If you have a big harvest, stick to a few easy guidelines to get the best results:

• Harvest in the Morning: Essential oils are strongest early in the day.
• Use Sharp Scissors: Cut above leaf nodes to promote new growth.
• Store Fresh: Keep herbs in water like cut flowers or refrigerate in damp paper towels.
• Dry or Freeze: Preserve herbs for long-term use by drying or freezing them.

Ready to Get Started?

There are so many reasons to grow herbs, which is one of the best parts. Grow chamomile for your tea, lavender for summer lemonade, fragrance and drying, rosemary for cooking and garnishes and the list goes on.

Stop into Bedford Fields this spring for a vast selection of herb plants, seeds, pots, and gardening supplies. Our friendly experts are happy to help you get started and give advice along the way.