10 Of The Easiest Herbs To Grow From Seed For Beginners

Growing your own herbs is a rewarding and cost-effective way to add fresh flavors to your meals while also enhancing your garden. If you’re new to gardening, starting with easy-to-grow herbs can give you confidence and ensure success. Here are ten of the easiest herbs to grow from seed, even if you have little to no experience.

1. Basil

Basil is one of the most beginner-friendly herbs. It grows quickly from seed and thrives in warm, sunny conditions. Keep the soil moist but well-drained, and pinch off the top leaves to encourage bushier growth. Popular varieties include sweet basil, Thai basil, and lemon basil.

2. Parsley

Parsley takes a little longer to germinate (up to three weeks), but once it sprouts, it grows well in containers or garden beds. It prefers full sun to partial shade and regular watering. Both curly and flat-leaf parsley are excellent for cooking.

3. Cilantro (Coriander)

Cilantro grows rapidly from seed and prefers cooler temperatures. Sow seeds every few weeks for a continuous harvest. It does best in well-drained soil with moderate watering. The leaves (cilantro) and seeds (coriander) are both useful in cooking.

4. Chives

Chives are low-maintenance and can grow in almost any condition. They are perfect for small spaces, growing well in pots or garden beds. They prefer full sun and regular watering. Snip the leaves often to encourage fresh growth.

5. Dill

Dill is an easy herb to grow, especially for beginner gardeners. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Since dill has a deep taproot, it’s best to sow it directly in the ground rather than transplanting it. Both the leaves and seeds are great for cooking.

6. Mint

Mint is incredibly easy to grow, but it spreads aggressively. To prevent it from taking over your garden, grow it in a container. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and prefers consistently moist soil. Peppermint and spearmint are popular varieties.

7. Oregano

Oregano is a hardy herb that grows well from seed. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it requires minimal care and is drought-tolerant. The leaves add great flavor to Italian and Mediterranean dishes.

8. Thyme

Thyme is a slow-growing herb but is very easy to maintain once established. It prefers dry, well-drained soil and full sun. This aromatic herb is perfect for adding to soups, meats, and vegetables.

9. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is easy to grow and has a pleasant citrus scent. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil. It’s great for making tea, adding to dishes, or repelling mosquitoes.

10. Chamomile

Chamomile grows easily from seed and is perfect for making soothing tea. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. There are two main types: German chamomile (annual) and Roman chamomile (perennial). The flowers are harvested for their calming properties.

Final Tips for Growing Herbs from Seed

• Use quality seeds – Fresh, high-quality seeds have better germination rates.
• Provide the right conditions – Most herbs need full sun and well-drained soil.
• Water properly – Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering.
• Harvest regularly – Frequent harvesting encourages more growth.

Starting with these easy-to-grow herbs will help you build your gardening skills while enjoying fresh flavors right from your garden. Happy growing!