How To Plant Herbs In Pots Outdoors

Growing herbs in pots outdoors is a great way to add flavor and freshness to your meals. It's also a relatively easy and inexpensive way to get started with gardening. However, there are a few essential aspects to planting herbs in pots outdoors that you'll need to keep in mind.

Choosing the Right Pot

The type of pot you choose will depend on the size of the herb plant you're growing. For small plants, such as basil or parsley, a 6-inch pot will suffice. For larger plants, such as rosemary or lavender, you'll need a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter.

Drainage

Herbs need well-drained soil to thrive. Make sure the pot you choose has drainage holes in the bottom. If the pot doesn't have drainage holes, you can drill some yourself.

Soil

The best soil for growing herbs is a well-draining potting mix. You can buy potting mix specifically designed for herbs, or you can mix your own using equal parts compost, peat moss, and perlite.

Planting

To plant your herbs, fill the pot with potting mix and make a hole in the center that is large enough to accommodate the root ball of the herb plant. Place the herb plant in the hole and backfill with potting mix, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the herb plant well.

Water and Fertilizer

Water your herbs regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize your herbs every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Sunlight

most herbs need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Place your pots in a location that receives full sun or partial shade.

Harvesting

Start harvesting herbs when they are about 6 inches tall. To harvest herbs, snip the leaves from the stem. You can also harvest the flowers of some herbs, such as lavender and rosemary.