Starting your first urban herb garden can be both exciting and rewarding. If you're new to gardening, selecting the right herbs is crucial for success. Here are five remarkably easy-to-grow herbs that thrive in planter boxes and require minimal maintenance.
Basil is a fantastic starter herb that grows quickly from seeds or seedlings. It loves warm weather and plenty of sunlight. Regular harvesting actually encourages more growth, making it perfect for frequent use in kitchens. Keep the soil moist but well-drained, and you'll have fresh basil throughout the growing season.
Mint might be the most forgiving herb for beginners. It grows so vigorously that you might want to plant it in its own container to prevent it from taking over your entire planter box. Mint prefers partial shade and consistently moist soil. The refreshing leaves are perfect for teas, cocktails, and garnishes.
Rosemary is a hardy perennial that tolerates dry conditions remarkably well. This aromatic herb prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It grows slowly but steadily, providing you with flavorful needles year-round in milder climates. Rosemary's upright growth habit makes it ideal for the back of your planter boxes.
Chives are possibly the easiest herb to grow, thriving in both sun and partial shade. These onion-flavored greens produce beautiful edible flowers and regrow quickly after cutting. They're cold-tolerant and will return year after year, making them a reliable addition to your urban garden.
Thyme is a low-growing herb that's remarkably drought-tolerant once established. It spreads beautifully in containers, creating attractive ground cover. Thyme prefers full sun and well-draining soil. Its tiny leaves pack intense flavor, perfect for roasted vegetables and meats.
When planting these herbs in your urban planter boxes, ensure they have adequate drainage holes and quality potting mix. Most herbs prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, though some tolerate partial shade. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and harvest regularly to promote bushier growth. With these simple herbs, you'll enjoy fresh flavors right from your balcony or windowsill throughout the growing season.