Simple Herbs to Grow: Tips for Containers, Raised Beds & Garden Plots
Herbs are the perfect place to start if you’re new to gardening. They’re generally low-maintenance, rewarding, and can be grown in almost any space—whether you have a full garden, a raised bed, or just a sunny patio. This summer, I had great success with a few tried-and-true favorites: rosemary, oregano, basil, mint, thyme, and parsley.
Why Herbs Are Perfect for Beginners
Herbs grow quickly, smell amazing, and add instant flavor to your meals. They don’t require a lot of space, and most can handle a little neglect (though some do have specific needs).
My Favorite Easy-to-Grow Herbs
Rosemary
A fragrant, evergreen herb that thrives in full sun. Did I mention that rosemary is probably my favorite herb on the planet? I have always had a lot of success with rosemary here in Georgia, but this summer it seemed to struggle a bit because we had so much rain. Rosemary prefers well-drained soil and doesn’t like to sit in soggy dirt, so it’s perfect for pots or raised beds with good drainage.
Oregano
Oregano is a hardy perennial that tolerates heat and dry conditions. It can spread easily, so keep it contained in a pot if you don’t want it taking over your garden. I learned this the hard way. I did not realize it would spread as rapidly as it did. Lesson learned.
Basil
Basil loves warmth and sunlight. It needs consistent moisture but doesn’t like waterlogged soil. Unlike the rosemary that always thrives, I have always struggled to keep basil watered enough to keep it alive. While my rosemary disliked the amount of rain we had this summer, my basil loved it. I had so much basil, I was able to dry it, make basil salt, and even make some pesto.
Mint
Mint grows like crazy, which can be both a blessing and a curse. I highly recommend planting it in a pot to prevent it from overtaking your garden. I grew mine in the bed this summer and was able to keep it contained. Mint likes regular watering but can handle partial shade.
Thyme
Thyme is drought-tolerant and perfect for sunny, dry spots. It’s low-maintenance and works well in both raised beds and garden plots.
Parsley
Parsley is a biennial herb that prefers consistent moisture and partial sun. It’s easy to grow in containers or garden beds and can be harvested throughout the season.
Growing Herbs in Different Spaces
Containers
Containers are ideal for herbs with spreading roots or for gardeners with limited space. Make sure your pots have drainage holes, and choose the right size for the herb.
Raised Beds
Raised beds offer excellent drainage and soil control. Herbs like rosemary, oregano, and thyme do well here, especially if your garden soil isn’t ideal.
Garden Plots
If you have a garden plot, most herbs will thrive as long as you pay attention to spacing, sun, and water. Consider grouping herbs with similar watering needs together for easier care.
Understanding Watering Needs
One of the biggest lessons I learned this summer is that herbs have very different watering needs. Drought-tolerant herbs like rosemary and thyme need minimal water, while basil and parsley like more consistent moisture. Paying attention to these needs will make your garden much happier—and your harvests tastier!
Quick Tips for Year-Round Herb Success
- Start with easy herbs and add new varieties as you gain confidence.
- Consider companion planting—herbs can help repel pests and attract pollinators.
- Regularly trim herbs to encourage growth and prevent them from flowering too soon.
- Rotate pots or beds for sunlight and drainage needs.
Herbs are not only beautiful but also practical and forgiving, making them perfect for beginner gardeners. Start small, pay attention to each plant’s needs, and enjoy fresh, homegrown flavor all season long.
