Herbs for Container Gardens
Growing Herbs in Containers
Growing herbs in containers is an easy way to enjoy fresh flavor right from your garden. Nearly any herb can grow in a pot, but some varieties perform especially well in containers and stay compact without spreading aggressively.
A few herbs, like lemon balm, catnip and mint, tend to spread quickly and are best grown in their own separate containers.
Great Herbs for Container Gardens
- Arugula
- Basil varieties (Aussie Sweetie, Spicy Globe, Siam Queen)
- Bay Leaf
- Burnet
- Calendula
- Chamomile
- Chives
- Citrosia
- Curry Plant
- Lavender (Munstead)
- Lemongrass
- Marjoram (Sweet and Golden)
- Marigold (Tangerine Gem)
- Sweet Myrtle
- Nasturtium
- Oregano (Greek and Cuban)
- Curled Parsley
- Passion Vine
- Patchouli
- Rosemary (ARP and Prostrate)
- Dwarf Sage
- Winter Savory
- Thyme (French, Lemon and Silver)
These herbs are excellent choices for patios, decks, windowsills or small garden spaces. Many also pair well together, allowing you to create attractive and useful mixed herb planters.
Herbs That Tolerate Partial Shade
- Anise Hyssop
- Lady’s Mantle
- Calendula
- Catnip
- Chamomile
- Chives
- Germander
- Hyssop
- Horseradish
- Lemon Balm
- Lovage
- Mint
- Pennyroyal Mint
- Parsley
- Perilla
- Rue
- Rosemary
- Salad Burnet
- Saponaria
- Sorrel
- Sweet Woodruff
- Sage
- Tansy
- French Tarragon
- Valerian
Tips for Success
Most container herbs prefer well-drained soil and consistent watering. Be sure containers have drainage holes and avoid letting herbs sit in standing water. Harvesting herbs regularly encourages fuller growth and keeps plants healthy.
Container herb gardens are a simple way to add fragrance, beauty and fresh ingredients to your home. With the right plant choices, you can enjoy a thriving herb garden almost anywhere.