Growing herbs is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to start a garden. Fresh flavors right at your fingertips, a fragrant backyard, and the satisfaction of picking your own ingredients—it doesn’t get much better than that.
Some herbs practically grow themselves, making them perfect for beginners who want a hassle-free experience. I still remember the thrill of my first successful basil plant, and trust me, it only gets better from there. These 20 easy herbs will help you build confidence and fill your garden with flavor in no time!
1. Basil
In the world of herbs, nothing screams summer like the sweet aroma of fresh basil. This fragrant delight is not just a treat for your senses but also works wonders in your kitchen, especially in a classic Caprese salad!
When it comes to growing this leafy marvel, basil loves basking in the sun. Water it deeply, but let the soil dry between watering sessions to prevent soggy roots.
2. Mint
Refreshing and invigorating, mint is a must-have for any budding gardener. This resilient herb is famous for its aromatic leaves, perfect for teas and mojitos alike.
Plant mint in a pot to keep its wandering roots in check. Give it a sunny spot and watch it flourish with just a sprinkle of water every now and then.
3. Rosemary
Picture an evergreen shrub that keeps your garden fragrant all year round—that’s rosemary for you! Its needle-like leaves are not just visually appealing but also pack a punch in roasted dishes.
To nurture rosemary, choose well-drained soil and a sunny spot. This hardy herb doesn’t need much water, making it perfect for forgetful gardeners.
4. Thyme
Tiny yet mighty, thyme is an enchanting addition to any herb garden. Its small leaves offer a burst of flavor, perfect for soups and stews.
Thyme thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Trim it regularly to encourage bushiness and keep it looking neat and tidy.
5. Parsley
Curly or flat, parsley is the unsung hero of garnishes, adding a fresh pop to countless dishes. This versatile herb is as easy to grow as it is to incorporate into your meals.
Plant parsley in a sunny or partially shaded spot with rich soil. Keep it well-watered, and you’ll have fresh sprigs ready to harvest in no time.
6. Cilantro
Love it or hate it, cilantro is a staple in many cuisines around the world. Its leafy greens add a zesty kick to salsas and curries, making it a kitchen favorite.
To grow cilantro, choose a spot with plenty of sunlight. Water it regularly, but make sure the soil drains well to keep the plant healthy.
7. Chives
With their mild onion flavor, chives are a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Not only do they spice up your dishes, but their purple flowers also add a pop of color to your garden.
Chives prefer full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. Snip them regularly to encourage new growth and keep them flourishing.
8. Oregano
Imagine having a taste of the Mediterranean right in your garden—oregano delivers just that! This aromatic herb is a pizza lover’s dream, enhancing any tomato-based dish.
Oregano thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Allow it to dry between waterings, and it will reward you with flavorful leaves.
9. Sage
Velvety leaves and a distinctly earthy aroma make sage an intriguing choice for beginner gardeners. Its culinary uses are vast, especially in hearty winter dishes.
Sage prefers a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Water sparingly, and prune regularly to maintain its shape.
10. Dill
If pickles are your passion, then dill is your best friend! This feathery herb brings a burst of flavor to salads, sauces, and, of course, pickles.
Dill enjoys full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Sow seeds directly into the ground, and thin the seedlings to encourage robust growth.
11. Lemon Balm
Fancy a hint of lemony freshness in your tea? Lemon balm, with its citrusy aroma, is a delightful addition to both gardens and kitchens.
Lemon balm thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist soil. Regular trimming will prevent it from becoming leggy and keep it lush.
12. Lavender
Dreaming of a garden that smells like a vacation in Provence? Lavender, with its iconic purple flowers, is not just stunning but also a bee’s best friend.
Grow lavender in full sun and well-drained soil. Prune after flowering to keep it bushy and encourage more blooms.
13. Tarragon
With a hint of anise, tarragon adds a unique flavor profile to your kitchen creations. Its slender leaves are a chef’s secret weapon, especially in French cuisine.
Tarragon flourishes in well-drained soil and full sun. Keep it well-trimmed, and it will reward you with fresh leaves throughout the growing season.
14. Bay Laurel
Ever fancied growing your own bay leaves for those hearty stews? Bay laurel, with its glossy leaves, is a staple in any herb garden with a culinary twist.
Bay laurel loves a sunny spot and well-drained soil. Water sparingly, and it will thrive for years as a potted plant.
15. Fennel
Looking for something exotic to grace your garden? Fennel, with its feathery foliage and aromatic bulb, offers a delightful taste reminiscent of licorice.
Fennel thrives in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. Allow it space to grow, and enjoy its crunchy bulbs and flavorful fronds.
16. Marjoram
Marjoram might just become your new kitchen favorite with its sweet and spicy flavor. Its tiny leaves make a charming garnish, elevating any dish to gourmet status.
Plant marjoram in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Pinch back the stems to encourage bushier growth and continuous harvest.
17. Coriander
Whether you call it cilantro or coriander, this herb is a dual-purpose wonder. Its leaves enhance your dishes with a fresh zing, while the seeds offer a warm, spicy flavor.
Coriander favors full sun to partial shade and rich, well-drained soil. Regular watering and harvesting encourage healthier growth and prevent bolting.
18. Chervil
Ever heard of the cousin to parsley with a hint of anise? Chervil brings a touch of elegance to your dishes, especially when used fresh.
Chervil prefers cool, shaded areas and well-drained soil. Regular watering and pinching back budding flowers maintain its delicate structure.
19. Sorrel
Tangy and slightly sour, sorrel is a surprising addition to any herb garden. Its vibrant leaves are perfect for adding a zing to salads and soups.
Sorrel loves a sunny spot with moist, well-drained soil. Regularly trim back old leaves to encourage new growth and keep the plant productive.
20. Lovage
Imagine a celery-flavored herb that can grow as tall as you—meet lovage! This towering plant is perfect for adding depth to soups and stocks.
Lovage thrives in full sun with rich, well-drained soil. Give it space to grow, and it will become a centerpiece in your herb garden.