Starting an urban herb garden is exciting, but a common question is: how many planter boxes do you actually need? The answer isn't one-size-fits-all; it depends on your goals, space, and the herbs you choose. For a decent, kitchen-ready garden that provides regular harvests, a setup of 3-5 medium-sized planter boxes is an excellent starting point.
First, consider your herbs. Some, like mint and oregano, are vigorous spreaders and need their own dedicated box to prevent them from overwhelming others. Compact herbs like thyme, cilantro, and parsley can share a wider, rectangular planter. Basil also enjoys space but can be planted with companions like chives. A good rule is to allocate one small to medium box (approx. 24" long) for each aggressive grower, and use larger boxes (36" or longer) for thoughtful combinations.
Next, assess your space and layout. A sunny balcony or patio can accommodate several boxes. For a basic garden, aim for: one box for mint, one for basil, and one or two shared boxes for a mix of parsley, cilantro, thyme, oregano, and chives. This 3-4 box setup gives you variety. If space is limited, use taller, vertical planters or railing boxes to increase capacity without using more floor space.
Finally, think about your consumption. A "decent" garden should supply fresh herbs for weekly cooking. Starting with 3-5 boxes allows you to experiment and see your herbs thrive. Remember to ensure each box has proper drainage and use high-quality potting mix. You can always add more boxes later as your green thumb grows. Happy planting