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Herb garden in pots ideas


Herb planter ideas – ways to grow in containers and pots

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Are you looking for herb planter ideas? Whether you want to grow herbs inside on your window sill or you want ideas for growing and displaying herbs in containers in the garden, we've got plenty of inspiration.

Used in cooking and for infusing hot drinks, as well as for their aroma and for medicinal purposes, herbs have so many benefits so it’s worth growing your own and the great thing is, you don’t need a large garden to grow them – most herbs grow well in containers which are perfect for small gardens, patio areas or inside on window sills. From hanging baskets to old wheelbarrows, almost any container is suitable provided it has drainage holes; the options are endless, so why not let your imagination run riot. 

See: Kitchen garden ideas – easy ways to get started

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Whatever you choose, it is useful to position container grown herbs near a back door, or close to the house, so that they are easy to access for harvesting. It is also important to include grit in your compost when planting herbs into containers.

In his monthly blog gardening expert Monty Don shares his tips for growing herbs stating that, 'if the water does not flow almost immediately through the pot that they are in then the drainage is not good enough. If you are planting herbs in a container mix general purpose peat-free compost with at least an equal measure of grit or sharpsand.'

1. Grow herbs in a strawberry planter 

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Strawberry planters make brilliant planters for growing herbs, particularly low growers such as oregano, thyme or mint. Large pots with several pockets, the containers allow an array of different herbs in one place. It’s recommended to opt for terracotta as terracotta is a porous material which allows air and moisture to pass through easily resulting in healthier plants. 

See: Herb garden ideas – for indoors and outdoors

2.

Create an attractive display by arranging potted herbs on staggered shelves 

(Image credit: Future / Tim Young)

If you’re short of patio space then try arranging potted herbs on a plant stand such as the Aldsworth design Garden Trading. Using an array of pot styles, from traditional terracotta, to colorful glazed and galvanised metal designs, will help add bring variety and interest.

See: Planning a kitchen garden – from designing a layout to picking plants

3. Save space by creating hanging herb planters

(Image credit: Future / Oliver Gordon )

Planting herbs in an array of outdoor planters and suspending them is a brilliant way to maximise floor space on a small patio or balcony area. Lightweight plastic containers or old tin cans would work well, or you could even use an old colander – perfect with its readymade drainage holes.

4. Use potted herbs to create a fragrant escape

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Ornamental as well as practical, potted herbs in a range of heights can be arranged on a patio area to create a pretty feature, but they also great for adding fragrance to a garden seating area.

See: Companion planting – your ultimate guide

5. Use recycled tins as herb planters for an eye-catching display 

(Image credit: Future / Tim Young)

Saving up old tomato tins with retro labels and repurposing them as herb planters is a great way to cut down on your waste but also to create a fun display with a Mediterranean twist. Simply drill holes in the bottoms for drainage. 

6. Use reclaimed vessels as herb planters 

(Image credit: Future / Judith Everitt)

Offering a rustic, weathered patina from years of use, reclaimed metal containers such as farm troughs, old galvanised baths and dolly tubs – historically used for washing clothes – make characterful planters for herbs. 

7. Arrange potted herbs on an old crate for a rustic display

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Old creates can be easily picked up from flea markets will bring vintage charm to a patio space and can be easily moved indoors or throughout the garden.

8. Opt for a window box herb planter

(Image credit: Getty Images)

You don't need a garden to grow herbs; most can be grown inside in individual pots on a window sill or in a window box by a sunny window. Growing herbs on the kitchen window sill is really convenient for cooking. 

9. Maximise space by thinking vertically

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Make the most of a small garden by using every inch of space. Consider fixing planters to garden walls and clustering potted herbs on old chairs to help make extra space for more pots on the ground. Growing herbs at different levels will also add decorative interest, too.

10. Add vintage charm by displaying herbs in enamelware 

(Image credit: Future)

Displaying shop bought herbs in colorful vintage enamel cups and teapots is a great way to disguise unsightly plastic pots – just make sure they are left sitting in water. 

Is it better to plant herbs in pots or in the ground?

Most herbs can be grown in the ground or in containers. Sometimes, it is preferable to grow certain herbs in containers. Growing slightly tender herbs such as myrtle, lemon verbena and scented geraniums in pots or containers is preferable to borders because it means they can easily be moved indoors during winter months. It is also recommended to grow invasive plants such as mint in containers to help control its growth and prevent them from taking over.

One thing to remember when growing herbs in containers rather than in the ground is that herbs in containers is that in hot weather they can be quick to dry out, be sure to keep an eye on them and to keep them well watered.

What herbs can be planted together?

Many herbs can be planted together provided they like the same growing conditions and have the same irrigation needs. Many herbs are Mediterranean in origin – such as rosemary, thyme and oregano, – and so all thrive in sunny conditions and free –draining soil and work well when planted together. Herbs such as parsley and basil on the other hand will require more constant moisture.  

Pippa is Content Editor on Homes & Gardens online contributing to Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors print issues. A graduate of Art History and formerly Style Editor at Period Living, she is passionate about architecture, creating decorating content, interior styling and writing about craft and historic homes. She enjoys searching out beautiful images and the latest trends to share with the Homes & Gardens audience. A keen gardener, when she’s not writing you’ll find her growing flowers on her village allotment for styling projects.

Ideas for Growing Herbs in Pots

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By: James A. Baggett 
No space for an herb garden? Grow herbs in a container garden instead! These herbs in pots are perfect for growing outdoors on your deck, patio or in windowboxes.

Herbs look good, smell good and are good for you. So why wouldn’t you want to keep them close at hand to enjoy at your convenience? You don’t need a large garden to have access to fresh herbs; simply plant herbs in pots or a fragrant — and functional — addition to your home and garden. Imagine a summer morning: You walk right outside your kitchen door to a sunny patio full of containers, snip a few sprigs of flat-leaf parsley and return to the kitchen to flavor your scrambled eggs. Scroll through my tips for growing delicious herbs in your garden, and take a look at some herb container recipes below.

See more Container Gardening ideas

Grow herbs in pots outdoors

Growing herbs in containers really is a no-brainer. Most herbs can flourish on your deck, patio, balcony or windowsill. All they require is a sunny spot and containers large enough for the plants to grow.

Herbs for shadier spots

And if you don’t have a sunny spot, these herbs grow best in partial sun:

Check out these 5 easy-to-grow herbs

Herb container tips

See our vegetable garden plan with curb appeal

Sage, basil & spearmint herb container

A) Sage (Salvia officinalis and S. officinalis ‘Berggarten Variegated’)
Type Perennial Foliage Textured strongly aromatic leaves used fresh and dried as a culinary seasoning Light Full sun Size 24 to 30 in. tall and wide Hardiness Cold-hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8

B) Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Type Tender perennial (usually grown as an annual) Foliage Aromatic leaves used fresh or dried to flavor foods Light Full sun Size 18 to 24 in. tall and wide Hardiness Cold-hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11

C) Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
Type Perennial Foliage Dark green leaves have strong peppermint fragrance and taste Light Full sun Size 1 to 2 ft. tall and wide Hardiness Cold-hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9

Mint advice

Basil, sage, oregano, kale & rosemary herb container

A) Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Heirloom Salad Leaf’)
Type Tender perennial (usually grown as an annual) Foliage Aromatic, crinkled 4-in. leaves used fresh or dried to flavor foods Light Full sun Size 12 to 18 in. tall, 10 to 16 in. wide Hardiness Cold-hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11

B) Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Type Perennial Foliage Textured gray-green leaves are strongly aromatic and used fresh or dried in cooking as a seasoning Light Full sun Size 24 to 30 in. tall and wide Hardiness Cold-hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8

C) Greek oregano (Origanum vulgare hirtum)
Type Perennial Foliage Aromatic rounded leaves used fresh or dried in many dishes Light Full sun Size 6 to 9 in. tall, 12 to 18 in. wide Hardiness Cold-hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9

D) Ornamental kale (Brassica oleracea)
Type Annual Foliage Grown for attractive foliage, not as a vegetable Light Full sun Size 12 to 18 in. tall and wide Hardiness Cold-hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11

E) Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Type Perennial Foliage Evergreen shrub with intensely fragrant gray-green needlelike leaves used in toiletries and sachets and for flavoring foods Light Full sun Size 2 to 6 ft. tall, 2 to 4 ft. wide Hardiness Cold-hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10

Basil advice

See more articles on growing Vegetables

Published: May 7, 2019

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Top 10 Herb Garden Ideas • inTrends

For those interested in gardening, I would suggest starting with a simple herb garden. Even in the smallest apartment there are pots for herbs.

Anna Getty

Isn't it great to cook with fresh herbs? Any time a recipe calls for lemon balm, parsley, or chives, you simply head to your kitchen garden and gather what you need. Each dish will become more fragrant, and you will enjoy the fresh smell of growing herbs. nine0006

It is not necessary to plant a full-fledged garden, you can get by with a small indoor garden that will fit on your windowsill. Here are some ideas on how to start growing your own plants for culinary purposes.

Backyard garden ideas

Some herbs grow by themselves around the house. These are plants that calmly endure the change of seasons and cold weather. These include lavender and rosemary. They grow on their own, reaching several feet in size. If you are planning a backyard garden, consider the size of the herbs you will be planting. Higher ones are better placed further away, and lower ones are closer. This will make harvesting easier. Herbaceous plants are very beautiful, why not plant them so that you get a real garden. nine0006

Some perennials, such as lemon verbena, bloom beautifully throughout spring and summer. Therefore, you can organize a small place to relax, to which a brick or paved path leads. Then you can sit outside and enjoy the natural aroma. It would be nice to put small elegant plates with the name of each species. Anyone who will admire your plantings will know what exactly you grow.

Balcony or rooftop garden

Even if you don't have a backyard, you can make a man-made vegetable garden inside. Hang planters on the railing, for example. Group the plants according to how much sun they like and what kind of soil they prefer. If you have enough floor space, set up a rack for a few pots. There are high greenery racks with individual stands for each pot. nine0006

On the balcony it is most convenient to arrange flowers vertically. Try to store materials at the bottom to leave as much room as possible for plants on top.

Place the tray slightly on its side against the wall. Use cross beams for planting small herbs. Additional wooden pieces may be needed to keep the soil from crumbling. You can buy a trough or bath on a stand, fill it with soil and plant your favorite spices.

Container garden

Container gardens are great because you can change the size depending on the space available and the amount of herbs you want to grow. Let's say you have a few small clay pots that fit in your hands and a few large ceramic pots with tall herbs. Not all pots need to be the same size. Small herbs grow, transplant them into a larger container, and plant new ones in their place.

Place some of the pots on tiered stands so they look great. Remember that we care not only about beauty, but also about ensuring that each plant receives a sufficient amount of light. You may have to arrange everything on the same level, even if it does not look so great. nine0006

Creative flower pots for the garden

Of course, you can use ordinary flower pots for growing, but there are many other ways that you can try. You can create an indoor garden by hanging pots outside the kitchen window, or you can set up a hanging garden inside. Hang small pots on kitchen shelving or on a pole placed in a corner or near a window.

If your kitchen has open shelves, why not place a row of stone jars on one of them to hold houseplants. It will breathe life into your kitchen and add some simple décor. In addition, fresh herbs will always be at your fingertips. You can even label each jar so you know which species grows where. nine0006

If you want to set up an outdoor herb garden, try building a spiral. Such a unique option looks like a winding pyramid. You can place the plants in a spiral from bottom to top. What is good about this design? One side of the pyramid is dry, the other is wet. Some areas get more light, others remain in the shade. This gives you the opportunity to grow a wide variety of varieties.

Creative gardeners use wheelbarrows, an old grill, a vintage chest of drawers, or barrels cut in half to grow. nine0006

Pallet garden idea

The use of pallets in design is very popular and there is a reason for that. They are easy to put on their side, thereby closing the voids, turning them into an ideal place for growing small herbaceous plants. It is necessary to cover the bottom of the voids so that the soil does not fall through. Pallets are great because you can customize them to fit your space. You can paint them, decorate them or just leave them wooden.

Most people install pallets on the ground, although it costs nothing to mount it on a wall. If you don't want to plant your herbs directly in the tray, you can hang pots on it. Small round pots or long rectangular boxes with hooks can be attached to the pallet beam. This design is convenient because it allows you to easily transplant herbs without damaging neighboring ones. Seeds can be germinated indoors, and when they grow up, they can be transferred to a hanging pot. nine0006

Herb Garden Ideas

If your backyard garden is already well-decorated, consider splicing it up with halved wine barrels. Cover them with earth and plant one or two types of herbs inside. It will add color to your garden and diversify the table with fresh herbs.

If there is room on the wall, a hanger with multiple pockets can be installed. You can save on this if you use an old shoe rack. It is better to buy a special installation. Fill all the pockets with soil and plant some grass in each. This idea is great because the sprouts don't interfere with each other, they don't steal nutrients. If a plant outgrows its pocket, it is easy to remove it without damaging the neighbors. nine0006

Raised Bed Herb Garden Ideas

A raised bed is our definition of a mound that is several feet above ground level. This type of beds is used for growing vegetables, it is great for grass. The beds themselves can be made less wide, because the grass does not need much space.

You can also use a raised bed with legs. Many gardeners really appreciate this method of growing because it allows you to care for plants without bending over or squatting. Look for beds with a shelf underneath for extra storage space for your gardening tools. nine0006

Small Herb Garden Ideas

Each plant only needs about 8 inches of soil to grow, so multiple herbs can be planted in a tiny space. To ensure success, you need to choose companion plants that help and enrich each other. In this case, you will get more greens for cooking.

The ideal mini-garden is a garden in a basket. You will have a handle in the center and compartments on the sides. Suitable for any toolbox. You can easily transfer the crop from the place where they grew to the kitchen. You do not have to endlessly walk back and forth to bring the right spice. nine0006

Vertical Growing Ideas

Herbs do not need deep root systems. Why not create a blooming vertical garden? This will allow you to grow a large number of plants in a tiny area. The easiest way is to use flower stands. It can be a stand alone or one that rests on a wall. There are several levels available that start at the ground and go up 150-180 cm.

If you have a big enough space, why not divide it up with a vertical structure. It will be a free-standing wall that can be approached from different sides. When the plants grow, they will turn into a screen and will drown out the sound. Another common solution is a three-dimensional pyramid-shaped stand with flat sides or a rounded cone shape. Here the base is always wider than the top. nine0006

Planter idea

Herbs are great because they are small so there is no problem growing them indoors. You can have one container of your favorite and most used spices, or you can have an entire indoor vegetable garden.

Ikea has some handy kitchen solutions that are great for potted plants. You need to install a crossbar on the wall of the kitchen where sunlight regularly hits, then hang containers on it, plant a sprout in each. You can mount several of these crossbars, one above the other. nine0006

Another interesting idea is to install floating shelves on the wall and hang small pots on them. Don't be afraid to use pots of different sizes. Basil and oregano grow luxuriantly if they are to your liking they should be placed in larger pots, small ones are good for garlic, thyme or mint.

Creative ideas for growing fresh herbs indoors.

Living grass in interior design is no longer a rarity. Traditional flower pots and flowerpots on the windows have become boring, and designers offer a number of creative ideas that will help green the premises or even become the founders of eco-design. nine0006

Fresh grass in the interior is not only a trend step, but also increased environmental cleanliness, aesthetics and benefits for the body.

You can create an entire carpeted lawn by purchasing a special PE foam base with cells in which grass is planted. With a competent combination with furniture elements and other accessories, greenery will look amazing - this is how the line between nature and housing is blurred.

Live grass can be used to decorate a wall. Grass is planted in special boxes or pots that are attached to the wall. For these purposes, pots are also suitable. It is important to grow spicy herbs in the kitchen - thus, there will be fresh herbs on the table all year round. nine0006

Design tables with built-in lawns are on the rise. When buying such a table, it is important to properly care for the grass. To do this, the table is installed by the window or high-quality artificial lighting is provided, regular watering of the plants should be observed.

Ceramic pots in the shape of animals or people are great for growing fresh grass. This is a creative design solution that will bring a stream of lightness and freshness to the interior. Greenery looks as ecological as possible in wooden boxes, wicker baskets and metal planters lined with drainage. nine0006

In interior design, you can create oases of wildlife by tying bunches of live grass with coarse thread and placing them anywhere you like. Unfortunately, this option is short-lived, will not last long - the grass will wither, and will not look aesthetically pleasing. By the same principle, you can tie a pot or jar into which grass is planted with twine. The last option is designed for long-term beauty in the house.

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