How to Grow Herbs in Pots: The Complete Guide

What Are the Best Herbs to Grow in Pots?

The best herbs to grow in pots are compact, versatile plants that thrive in well-drained potting soil and controlled watering conditions.

Most container-friendly herbs fall into two categories: Mediterranean herbs that prefer drier soil and leafy herbs that prefer consistent moisture.

Top Mediterranean Herbs for Containers

• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Sage
• Oregano

Fast-Growing Container Herbs

• Basil
• Mint
• Chives

These herbs grow quickly and prefer steady moisture and regular harvesting.

Mint should always be grown in its own pot because it spreads aggressively and can overtake other herbs.

Basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow in pots. For variety selection and pruning strategies, see Growing Basil in Containers.

Best Herbs for Pots: Quick Reference Table

Herb	Sunlight	Water Preference	Ideal Pot Depth
Basil	Full sun	Consistent moisture	8–10 inches
Rosemary	Full sun	Let it dry between watering	10–12 inches
Thyme	Full sun	Drought tolerant	8–10 inches
Sage	Full sun	Moderate	10 inches
Oregano	Full sun	Let dry slightly	8–10 inches
Parsley	Full to partial	Consistent moisture	8–10 inches
Mint	Partial sun	Consistent moisture	8–10 inches
Chives	Full sun	Moderate	6–8 inches

Key Distinction: Mediterranean herbs prefer drier soil. Leafy herbs like basil and parsley prefer steady moisture.

How Big Should a Pot Be for Herbs?

Most culinary herbs need pots at least 6 to 8 inches deep to support healthy root growth and proper drainage.

Larger, fast-growing herbs require more space. When in doubt, choose a slightly larger container. Herbs rarely struggle from too much root room, but they often suffer in pots that are too small.

“Root space is insurance. When roots have room to grow, moisture and nutrient balance become much easier to manage.” — Mark Bolt, VP of EarthBox^®

Herb Pot Size Guidelines

Herb pot size depends on how fast the plant grows and how large its root system becomes. Choosing the right container prevents overcrowding, improves drainage, and supports long-term growth.

Small, Slow-Growing Herbs

Best in 6–8 inch pots:

• Thyme
• Chives
• Marjoram

These herbs have compact root systems and adapt well to smaller containers.

Larger, Faster-Growing Herbs

Best in 10–12 inch pots or larger:

• Basil
• Rosemary
• Mint
• Parsley

These herbs grow quickly and need extra soil volume to prevent overcrowding and root-bound plants.

Pot Size Chart for Herbs

Growing Style	Recommended Container Size	Depth Requirement
Single herb	6–10 inch diameter	Minimum 8 inches deep
Mixed herb container	12–16 inch diameter	Minimum 8–10 inches deep
Large herb like rosemary	10–12+ inches	At least 12 inches deep

Rule: Always prioritize depth. Herbs need room for root development more than surface width.

Why Drainage Matters for Potted Herbs

Drainage holes are essential for growing herbs in pots.

Without drainage, water collects at the bottom of the container. Standing water causes root rot and weak growth.

Always choose containers with built-in drainage holes. If a pot does not have holes, drill them before planting.

Choosing the Right Pot Material

Container material directly affects how quickly soil dries, how often you need to water, and how stable moisture remains around the roots.

Some materials allow soil to breathe and dry faster. Others retain moisture longer, reducing the need for watering. Choosing the right material helps you match the pot to the herb’s natural growing conditions.

Terra Cotta

Terra cotta is porous. It allows moisture to evaporate through the pot's sides.

This makes terra cotta ideal for Mediterranean herbs such as:

• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Sage
• Oregano

These herbs prefer soil that dries slightly between watering. Faster evaporation helps prevent root rot.

The tradeoff: terra cotta dries quickly in hot weather and may require more frequent watering.

Plastic or Glazed Ceramic

Plastic and glazed pots are non-porous. They retain moisture longer and reduce evaporation.

These materials work well for herbs that prefer steady moisture, such as:

• Basil
• Parsley
• Mint

The tradeoff: poor drainage combined with moisture-retentive materials increases the risk of overwatering.

Quick Recap: Use terra cotta for Mediterranean herbs that prefer drier soil. Use plastic or glazed pots for leafy herbs that prefer steadier moisture.

Which Pot Material Is Best for Herbs?

There’s no single best material for growing herbs in pots. The right choice depends on the herb’s water preference and your climate.

Rule:

• Use breathable pots for drought-tolerant herbs.
• Use moisture-retaining pots for leafy, fast-growing herbs.

Why Depth Is More Important Than Width

Shallow pots restrict root growth and dry out quickly.

Deep containers improve:

• Root stability
• Moisture balance
• Nutrient access
• Long-term plant health

Using a container that is too small limits root development, resulting in weak, stressed plants.

Depth Rule: If you choose between a wide, shallow container and a deeper one, always choose the deeper one. Deep containers stabilize moisture and protect roots from stress.

What Is the Best Soil for Growing Herbs in Pots?

The biggest mistake gardeners make is using garden soil in containers.

Garden soil compacts in pots. Compacted soil suffocates roots and traps water.

Use this formula instead:

• 2 parts high-quality potting mix
• 1 part perlite or coarse grit

This blend improves drainage, aeration, and root oxygenation.

Most herbs prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A balanced potting mix typically falls within that range.

For a deeper dive into soil selection, read Container Gardening: The Best Soil for Containers.

Soil Rule: Never use garden soil in containers. Use potting mix with added perlite or grit to keep roots oxygenated and prevent waterlogged soil.

Do Herbs Like Deep or Shallow Pots?

Herbs prefer deep pots with proper drainage. Deep containers allow roots to spread and prevent rapid drying.

Shallow containers create inconsistent moisture and stress roots, especially during hot weather.

Growing Herbs Indoors vs Outdoors

Herbs adapt well to both environments, but light is the deciding factor.

Growing Herbs in Pots Indoors

Indoor herbs need strong, consistent light to prevent weak, stretched growth.

Place your planter in a south-facing window where it receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If natural light is limited, supplement with a full-spectrum grow light for 10-12 hours per day.

Low light causes herbs to become leggy, pale, and less flavorful.

Indoor air is often dry, especially in winter. Increase humidity by placing pots on a tray filled with pebbles and water. As the water evaporates, it raises moisture around the plant without soaking the roots.

Rotate containers every few days to promote even growth.

Best indoor performers:

• Basil
• Mint
• Parsley
• Chives

For a deeper dive into indoor lighting and placement strategies, read Growing Herbs Indoors: Essential Tips.

Growing Herbs in Pots Outdoors

Most culinary herbs need 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce strong growth and concentrated flavor.

Sunlight drives leaf production and the development of essential oils. Herbs grown in insufficient light often become leggy, pale, and less aromatic.

Place containers in the sunniest spot on your patio, balcony, or yard. Rotate pots every few days to ensure even light exposure and balanced growth.

During extreme summer heat, leafy herbs like basil and parsley may benefit from light afternoon shade to reduce stress and prevent wilting.

Perennial herbs that overwinter:

• Thyme
• Sage
• Oregano

Tender annuals:

• Basil
• Cilantro

Bring basil and rosemary indoors before the first frost.

For a breakdown of annual versus perennial herbs and how they behave in containers, read Growing Herbs: Annual vs. Perennial Varieties.

Light Rule: Indoors, light intensity drives growth and flavor more than watering does. Outdoors, full sun and heat determine how often containers dry out.

What Herbs Should Not Be Planted Together?

Herbs should be grouped by water and sunlight needs. Mixing herbs with different moisture requirements leads to root stress, poor growth, and reduced flavor.

Avoid these combinations:

• Basil with rosemary
• Parsley with thyme
• Sage with moisture-loving herbs

These pairings fail because Mediterranean herbs prefer soil that dries between watering, while leafy herbs require steady moisture.

Overwatering rosemary or thyme causes root rot. Underwatering basil or parsley reduces leaf production.

Herb Companion Grouping Chart

Group Type	Herbs	Water Preference	Sunlight
Dry Mediterranean	Thyme, Rosemary, Sage	Let the soil dry between watering	Full sun
Moist / Leafy	Basil, Parsley, Chives	Consistent moisture	Full sun to partial
Mixed Mediterranean	Oregano, Marjoram, Thyme	Moderate to dry	Full sun

Rule: Always group herbs with similar moisture needs.

How Often Should You Water Herbs in Pots?

Most potted herbs need water 2 to 3 times per week, or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.

Containers dry out faster than garden beds because air circulates on all sides of the pot. In hot, sunny, or windy weather, small containers may require daily watering.

Always check the soil before watering. Overwatering is one of the most common causes of root rot in potted herbs.

How to Water Properly

Insert your finger 1 to 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, water thoroughly until moisture drains from the bottom.

Avoid light surface watering. Deep watering encourages stronger root growth.

Water in the early morning, when possible, to reduce evaporation and allow roots to absorb moisture before midday heat.

Adjust Watering by Herb Type

Moisture-loving herbs like basil, parsley, and mint prefer consistently moist soil.

Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage prefer soil that dries between watering.

Never leave pots sitting in standing water.

“Container gardening success comes down to consistent moisture. Sudden swings from dry to soaked create stress that limits growth.” — Mark Bolt, VP of EarthBox^®

Maintaining consistent moisture can be challenging in traditional containers, especially during hot weather or when schedules vary.

Self-Watering Planters Make It Easy

Self-watering planter boxes help regulate moisture by storing water in a reservoir below the soil. Roots draw water upward as needed, which reduces sudden swings between overly dry and overly wet conditions.

For gardeners who struggle with watering consistency, a structured system such as the EarthBox^® Herb Garden Kit simplifies moisture management while still providing proper drainage and aeration.

The kit also gets you off to a fast start as it includes:

• Planter box
• Aeration screen
• Water fill tube
• Mulch/weed cover
• Peat-based potting mix
• Dolomite lime
• Fertilizer

Just pick your herbs, plant, and let the planter box do the rest.

For a more in-depth look at kits, read Herb Garden Kits: A Smarter, Easier Way to Grow.

How to Fertilize Herbs in Pots

Less is more.

Excess fertilizer, especially high nitrogen, can dilute essential oils and reduce the strong flavor that herbs are known for.

However, potted herbs benefit from occasional feeding because nutrients wash out of containers over time. Most herbs only need light feeding during active growth.

How Often Should You Fertilize Potted Herbs?

Fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks during spring and summer. Stop feeding in late fall and winter when growth slows.

Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 8-3-5 or 7-7-7.

“With culinary herbs, you’re growing for flavor, not foliage. Overfeeding can make plants look impressive but taste weaker.” — Mark Bolt, VP of EarthBox^®

Organic options are ideal for culinary herbs because they support steady growth without overwhelming nitrogen levels. Good choices include:

• Fish emulsion
• Kelp or seaweed extract
• Compost tea
• Slow-release organic granules mixed into soil at planting

Liquid fertilizers work quickly and are useful after harvesting to encourage regrowth. Always dilute liquid fertilizer to half the label strength to prevent root burn.

Yellowing leaves may indicate nitrogen deficiency. If growth slows significantly during peak season, a light feeding may help.

Fertilizing by Herb Type

Not all herbs require the same nutrient level. Matching fertilizer intensity to plant type protects both growth and flavor.

Light Herb Feeders

• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Oregano
• Sage

These Mediterranean herbs evolved in lean, rocky soils. Too much fertilizer encourages soft growth and reduces aroma. Feed sparingly.

Moderate Feeders

• Basil
• Cilantro

Leafy herbs grow quickly and produce more foliage. They benefit from slightly richer soil and occasional feeding during peak growth.

Rule: Feed leafy herbs lightly but consistently. Feed woody Mediterranean herbs minimally.

Common Herb Growing Mistakes

Even experienced gardeners make small mistakes when growing herbs in pots. Most problems stem from soil, drainage, light, or watering.

Use this guide to quickly identify common issues and correct them before they affect flavor or growth.

Mistake	What Happens	How to Fix It
Using garden soil in pots	Soil compacts and traps water	Use high-quality potting mix with added perlite
Planting mint with other herbs	Mint overtakes the container	Grow mint in its own pot
Ignoring drainage holes	Roots sit in water and rot	Use pots with drainage holes and empty saucers
Overwatering rosemary and thyme	Root rot and weak growth	Let the soil dry between watering
Not harvesting regularly	Plants become woody and unproductive	Harvest up to 30% of growth at a time
Insufficient sunlight	Leggy, pale plants with weak flavor	Provide 6–8 hours of direct sun

Regular harvesting improves production. Never remove more than 30 percent of the plant at once.

Why Container Herb Gardening Is Growing

Consumer demand for fresh herbs continues to expand. The global fresh herbs market has experienced steady growth as home cooking and plant-forward diets increase. More households now rely on container gardening due to limited yard space and convenience.

Herbs remain one of the highest-value crops per square foot for home growers. A small patio, balcony, or sunny window can produce consistent flavor year-round when the right system is in place.

Growing herbs in pots works best when soil structure, drainage, light, watering, and feeding all work together. When those elements stay balanced, herbs produce stronger growth, deeper aroma, and better flavor.

EarthBox Makes Growing Herbs in Pots Easy

For gardeners who want predictable results without constant guesswork, a structured container system can simplify the process. The EarthBox® Herb Garden Kit provides controlled watering, proper aeration, and balanced nutrition in one integrated planter.

When moisture stays consistent, and roots have room to grow, herbs thrive.

And thriving herbs are what make container gardening worth it.

FAQs: Growing Herbs in Pots

What are the best herbs to grow in pots?

The best herbs to grow in pots are compact, versatile plants that thrive in well-drained potting soil and controlled watering. Popular choices include basil, rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano, parsley, mint, and chives.

Mediterranean herbs prefer drier soil, while leafy herbs like basil and parsley prefer consistent moisture.

How often should you water herbs in pots?

Most potted herbs need watering 2 to 3 times per week, or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.

Small pots and hot weather may require more frequent watering. Always check soil moisture before watering to prevent root rot.

Do herbs need full sun?

Most culinary herbs require 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day for strong growth and concentrated flavor.

Mint and parsley tolerate partial shade, but insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced aroma.

What size pot is best for herbs?

Most herbs grow well in pots that are at least 8 to 10 inches deep.

Small herbs like thyme and chives thrive in 6 to 8-inch containers, while larger herbs such as basil and rosemary perform best in 10 to 12-inch pots or larger.

Depth is more important than width.

Can you grow multiple herbs in one container?

Yes, but only group herbs with similar water and sunlight needs.

For example:

• Thyme, rosemary, and sage grow well together.
• Basil, parsley, and chives grow well together.

Don’t plant mint with other herbs, as it spreads aggressively.

What is the hardest herb to grow in pots?

Cilantro is often considered difficult because it bolts quickly in hot weather.

Provide partial shade during extreme heat and succession plant every few weeks for continuous harvest.

Do herbs in pots need fertilizer?

Yes, but lightly.

Feed every 4 to 6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer at half-strength. Overfertilizing can dilute essential oils, reducing flavor.

Mediterranean herbs require minimal feeding, while leafy herbs like basil benefit from slightly more nutrients.

Why are my potted herbs turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nitrogen deficiency.

Check soil moisture first. Many yellowing issues result from excess water rather than a lack of nutrients.

How do you keep herbs bushy and productive?

Harvest regularly.

Remove up to 30% of the plant at once. Frequent trimming encourages branching and prevents herbs from becoming woody.

Can herbs grow indoors year-round?

Yes, if they receive sufficient light.

Place herbs in a south-facing window or use grow lights during winter. Basil, mint, parsley, and chives adapt well to indoor conditions.

What causes root rot in potted herbs?

Root rot occurs when water collects at the bottom of a container, depriving the roots of oxygen.

Use pots with drainage holes and never allow containers to sit in standing water.