Spring is the perfect time to start an herb garden! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, growing fresh herbs at home is a great way to enhance your meals. With vibrant, aromatic plants, you can have a supply of homegrown herbs ready to use in your favorite dishes. In this guide, you'll discover 11 of the best herbs to grow in spring for a flavorful kitchen.
1. Basil
Basil is one of the most popular herbs for growing in the spring. Known for its bright green leaves and sweet, peppery flavor, it pairs perfectly with tomato dishes, pastas, and salads. Basil thrives in warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight, so it's perfect for spring planting. Make sure to pinch back the flowers to keep the leaves fresh and flavorful. With a little care, you'll have a fresh supply of basil for your meals all season long.
2. Mint
Mint is another herb that does well in spring, growing quickly and easily in a variety of conditions. Its fresh, cooling flavor is perfect for summer drinks, teas, and desserts, but it can also add a unique twist to savory dishes. Mint tends to spread out in the garden, so it's best to plant it in a container or a controlled space. With regular watering and indirect sunlight, mint can be a prolific herb that adds a refreshing note to your kitchen creations.
3. Parsley
Parsley is a must-have herb for every kitchen, known for its mild flavor and versatile use in dishes ranging from soups to sauces. It can thrive in both the sun and partial shade, making it easy to grow in any garden or window box. Spring is the ideal time to plant parsley; it prefers cool weather. Whether you use it to garnish your meals or as a primary ingredient in recipes like tabbouleh, parsley will quickly become an indispensable herb.
4. Rosemary
Rosemary is a hearty herb that loves the spring sun. Known for its strong, pine-like fragrance, rosemary is commonly used in Mediterranean cooking. Its sturdy, needle-like leaves add depth to roasted meats, potatoes, and vegetables. Rosemary is drought-tolerant, so you don’t have to worry about frequent watering. However, it thrives best in well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight.
5. Thyme
Thyme is another herb that flourishes in spring weather. With its tiny, aromatic leaves, thyme is great for adding a mild, earthy flavor to meat, poultry, and vegetable dishes. It also works well in soups, stews, and sauces. Thyme does well in full sun; once established, it requires minimal care. It’s best to trim thyme back regularly to encourage fresh growth, and you can easily dry it for use throughout the year.
6. Oregano
Oregano is a staple herb in Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Its strong, savory flavor pairs beautifully with pizza, pasta, and grilled meats. Oregano thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making spring the perfect season to plant it. It grows well in containers, so you can easily grow it on a balcony or windowsill if space is limited.
7. Chives
Chives are one of the easiest herbs to grow, and they’re a great addition to any spring garden. With their delicate, onion-flavored stalks, chives can be used in a variety of dishes, from scrambled eggs to baked potatoes. Chives grow best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They don’t require much maintenance, and you can even grow them in pots on a windowsill.
8. Sage
Sage is an aromatic herb that adds a savory, slightly peppery taste to dishes. It’s a great complement to pork, poultry, and hearty winter stews, though it can also work well in spring and summer recipes. Sage prefers well-drained soil and full sun, making it a great herb to plant in the spring. Once established, it's a low-maintenance plant, and its leathery leaves give it a unique texture.
9. Dill
Dill is a fast-growing herb that’s perfect for the spring garden. Known for its feathery leaves and tangy flavor, dill is often used in pickling recipes, but it can also be used in salads, sauces, and fish dishes. Dill loves full sun and well-drained soil, and it can be easily grown in containers. The fresh, aromatic leaves of dill can bring a fresh, crisp flavor to a wide range of dishes, making it a great herb to keep on hand during spring.
10. Cilantro
Cilantro is a bold, citrusy herb that’s essential in many Latin dishes. From tacos to guacamole, cilantro adds a fresh, zesty flavor that makes meals pop. However, cilantro can be a bit finicky, as it prefers cooler weather and can bolt quickly in hot temperatures. Spring is the best time to plant cilantro, as it thrives in mild conditions. Cilantro can be grown in full sun or partial shade, and regular harvesting will keep the plant producing fresh leaves throughout the season.
11. Tarragon
Tarragon is a delicate herb with a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor. It’s frequently used in French cuisine, particularly in sauces, salads, and with chicken or fish. Tarragon prefers full sun and well-drained soil, so spring is the perfect time to plant it. It can grow in a variety of conditions, but it’s best to give it plenty of space to spread. Tarragon’s mild, herbaceous flavor makes it a great addition to lighter spring and summer dishes.
Fresh Herbs for Your Spring Garden
Planting herbs in the spring is a rewarding way to enhance your meals with fresh, flavorful ingredients. From basil and mint to thyme and rosemary, these 11 herbs will bring a range of tastes and aromas to your kitchen. Growing herbs at home is easy and fun for beginner and experienced gardeners. Start planting today, and soon, you’ll enjoy the freshest, most flavorful herbs in all your dishes!