Jordan Freytag + photo

Jordan Freytag

Aug 25
2 min read
bubble 0

“What’s the big deal with fresh herbs?” Some folks say. “I can get a plethora of the same herbs (and more) at my local grocery or specialty foods store.” Yes, this is true. There are more dried-herb options at stores, and it seems to be much easier for the consumer. But have you considered just how long those herbs have been dried when their being manufactured—not to mention how long they’ve been sitting on the shelf in your local store. Not only do they lose their pungent flavor and aroma in the drying process, they lose their nutritional value as well. This becomes even more apparent when we consider the hot containers they sit in and the jostling they experience when being shipped. Enjoying fresh herbs year-round is a lot easier than one might think and a lot tastier. Here are some basics so you can get started.

Light

As long as you have a window that lets in sunlight or a grow light, you’re ready to start your herb garden no matter what time of year it is! If you are using natural light, avoid a window that faces north, as not enough sun will reach your plants.

Water

Herbs thrive when given good drainage, so provide a saucer or a drain pan depending on your container. And if you live in dry climate, avoid clay pots because they tend to dry-out the soil more rapidly than other containers (try these planters instead). Keep the soil moist. It should feel kind of spongy but not soggy.

Heat

Herbs are like people as far as their temperature preference. They prefer an average temperature of 70 degrees. So, be sure to move the growing container away from the window on a particularly cold night and during the autumn and winter months.

Seeds

Some herbs can be trickier than others so we’ve come up with a list of what we think are the five best herbs to begin with:

Cilantro – Slow Bolt

Basil – Italian Large Leaf

Parsley – Dark Green Italian Flat-leaf

Oregano - Italian

Sage – Broad Leaved

Our Recommended Picks

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

0 Comments

No Comments yet! Be the first to start a conversation

  1. Seed Inoculant Guide: Benefits for Legumes and Soil Healthinoculated pea cover crop

    Seed Inoculant Guide: Benefits for Legumes and Soil Health

    Written By Lara Wadsworth It is common knowledge these days that healthy soil is critical for healthy plants. While Mother Nature is very good at taking care of her own, yet if you have gardened or farmed for any length of time, you know that sometimes...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2025-09-16
    4 min read
    bubble 0
  2. Improve Your Cardiovascular Health with Microgreensheart-shaped bowl of microgreens

    Improve Your Cardiovascular Health with Microgreens

    Written By Lara Wadsworth Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide. This deadly disease is sweeping across America at an alarming rate. However, much of it ties back to lifestyle factors we can control, such as diet and exercise. Few ...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2025-09-16
    6 min read
    bubble 0
  3. September Planting Guide By Zonegardener wearing gloves holding a peony root

    September Planting Guide By Zone

    Written By Lara Wadsworth September gardening brings cooler air, shifting light, and new opportunities for planting and harvesting. Whether you’re in Zone 3 racing frost or Zone 10 just starting winter crops, here’s what to plant this month. Understand...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2025-09-03
    10 min read
    bubble 0
  4. True Leaf Market

    Microgreens Grow Lights Guide: Best Options for Beginners & Pros

    Written By Lara Wadsworth Microgreens are one of the easiest and most rewarding indoor crops to grow. They are easily grown by anyone in any situation, and they are absolutely packed with nutrition and flavor. You can harvest them in 2 weeks or less, w...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2025-09-03
    7 min read
    bubble 1