Fresh herbs can transform your meals, and the good news is, you don't need to wait long to enjoy them! Many herbs grow fast and thrive in spring, making them ideal for kitchen gardens. Plant them in pots, window boxes, or garden beds; you'll enjoy a quick and rewarding harvest. This gallery rounds up flavorful herbs that shoot up fast and add instant freshness to your dishes. These speedy growers are beginner-friendly, low-maintenance, and super rewarding.
Why Grow Quick Herbs in Spring?
Spring offers ideal weather conditions: mild temperatures, good rainfall, and extended daylight. Quick-growing herbs let you enjoy fresh flavors without a long wait. They also encourage kitchen creativity, reduce store trips, and support pollinators early in the season. Many are perfect for small spaces, and you'll often see growth in just a few weeks. Plus, they make your garden look alive and smell amazing! Starting now means you’ll have plenty to harvest by summer. Explore these tastiest herbs you can plant this spring!
1. Basil
Basil thrives in warm weather and is one of the fastest-growing herbs once spring heats up. When planted in a sunny location with rich, well-draining soil, you can expect to harvest leaves in 3 to 4 weeks. Its sweet, slightly spicy flavor shines in salads, tomato sauces, and homemade pesto. Regularly snipping the top leaves encourages bushier growth and prevents early flowering. Explore varieties like Genovese for classic Italian flavor, Thai basil for a licorice twist, or Lemon basil for a citrusy zing.
2. Cilantro
Cilantro is a cool-weather herb that grows fast in spring and can be harvested in 3 to 4 weeks. Its bright, citrusy flavor is essential in salsas, tacos, and various Asian and Indian dishes. Cilantro thrives in partial sun and moist soil but tends to bolt quickly as temperatures rise, so early harvesting is key. The leaves (cilantro) and seeds (coriander) are prized in the kitchen, offering different flavor profiles. To enjoy a continuous supply, sow seeds in intervals every couple of weeks.
3. Dill
Dill is a cool-season herb that grows rapidly in early spring, making it a top pick for speedy harvests. In about 4 weeks, you can start snipping its delicate, fern-like leaves to flavor fish, dips, and homemade pickles. Dill prefers full sun and well-draining soil, which doesn’t require much fuss to thrive. Beyond its culinary uses, dill is a natural magnet for pollinators and beneficial bugs like ladybugs. Letting a few plants flower rewards you with aromatic seeds for pickling or saving.
4. Chives
Chives are hardy perennials that bounce back early each spring with minimal effort. Their slender green shoots deliver a gentle onion flavor that enhances eggs, soups, potatoes, and dips. You can start harvesting in 3 to 4 weeks by snipping the leaves at the base, encouraging more growth. Chive flowers, with their purple pom-pom shape, are pretty and edible. These blooms attract pollinators, making them useful as well as ornamental.
5. Parsley
Parsley grows quickly in spring's cool, moist soils, making it a rewarding herb to plant early in the season. You can start harvesting in about 4 to 5 weeks, especially if you choose fast-sprouting flat-leaf varieties. Its bright, slightly peppery flavor adds a fresh touch to soups, sauces, salads, and more. Whether curly or flat-leaf, both types are versatile and tasty. Frequent cutting encourages bushier growth and a longer harvest season.
6. Mint
Mint is a vigorous grower that can quickly take over garden beds if not contained. It prefers moist, partly shaded areas and produces usable sprigs in three weeks. Its refreshing taste makes it a favorite in teas, desserts, and summer salads. Because it spreads via underground runners, planting it in a pot is a smart way to keep it under control. There are many varieties to explore, from classic spearmint to bold peppermint and even unique chocolate mint.
7. Arugula
Though often grouped with leafy greens, Arugula behaves like a fast-growing herb in spring gardens. It thrives in cool weather and matures quickly, with tender leaves ready for harvest in 3 to 4 weeks. The peppery bite it adds stands out in salads, sandwiches, and even homemade pestos. Arugula prefers full sun to partial shade and consistent moisture for best growth. Harvesting outer leaves often encourages continual production.
8. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a fast-growing herb that fills your garden with a light, citrusy fragrance. It thrives in partial shade and moist soil and is typically ready to harvest within 4 to 5 weeks. This herb is a favorite in calming teas, fruit salads, and refreshing marinades. It spreads quickly like mint, so keeping it in a container helps manage its growth. Lemon balm also attracts helpful pollinators like bees and butterflies.
9. Oregano
Oregano thrives in sunny spots and quickly bursts into growth once spring arrives. You can begin harvesting sprigs in about 4 weeks, making it one of the earliest herbs to enjoy. Its bold, earthy flavor is perfect for pasta, grilled meats, and Mediterranean dishes. It prefers well-drained soil and doesn't need much water, making it an easy-care option. Oregano is a perennial that comes back stronger each year with regular pruning. Frequent snipping also helps the plant stay full and bushy.
10. Thyme
Thyme is a small-leafed herb that thrives in warm spring weather and starts producing within 4 to 6 weeks. It offers a delicate, earthy flavor that beautifully enhances soups, roasts, and stews. Plant it in a sunny, well-drained spot, and it will grow steadily with little fuss. Pruning it regularly keeps it bushy and productive. Thyme is also drought-tolerant and perfect for container gardens. As a bonus, it draws pollinators, making it tasty and beneficial to your garden.
11. Sorrel
Sorrel brings a zesty, lemony brightness to your garden and kitchen, and it grows quickly in the spring chill. Its tender young leaves are ready in about 4 weeks and pack a punch in soups, sauces, and fresh salads. It thrives in full sun to part shade and loves consistently moist soil. Regularly harvesting the outer leaves keeps it productive and full. Sorrel is a perennial in many zones, making it a gift that keeps giving.
12. Tarragon
French tarragon quickly establishes in spring and has a sweet, licorice flavor. Harvest begins around 4 to 6 weeks after planting. It pairs well with chicken, fish, and egg dishes. Plant in full sun with good drainage. Prune regularly to encourage more leaves. It’s a lovely, fragrant addition to any herb garden.
13. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are eye-catching and edible, making them a double win for any garden. Their round leaves and bright blooms offer a peppery, mustard-like flavor that's great in salads and on top of dishes. The seeds germinate quickly, and plants mature in 4 to 5 weeks. They're low-maintenance, thriving even in poor soil and full sun. You can eat the leaves and flowers, adding a gourmet touch to meals.
14. Fenugreek
Fenugreek grows quickly and is a staple in many Indian and Middle Eastern recipes. It has a unique, slightly sweet, maple-like flavor adds depth to curries and stir-fries. You can harvest the tender leaves in 3 to 4 weeks for use as microgreens or in salads. It prefers full sun and light, well-drained soil. Sow seeds thickly and cut the greens while still young and soft. Bonus: Fenugreek helps improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen!
15. Watercress
Watercress grows fast in spring and prefers damp, shady spots, making it perfect for cool corners of your garden. It can be ready to harvest in just about 3 weeks, especially when kept consistently moist. The leaves offer a sharp, peppery bite that enhances sandwiches, salads, and soups. Pick the younger leaves for the best texture and flavor. This herb is nutrient-rich and packed with antioxidants.
16. Marjoram
Marjoram grows fast once it warms up, and is ready to harvest in about 4 to 6 weeks. It tastes sweet and slightly citrusy, perfect for soups and meats. It prefers full sun and light soil. Prune often to keep it from getting woody. Marjoram also blends well with oregano in dishes.
17. Borage
Borage is a fast-growing annual with edible cucumber-flavored leaves and flowers. It sprouts quickly and blooms in 4 to 6 weeks. Use it in drinks, salads, or as a garnish. It attracts pollinators and enriches the soil. Give it sun and space to spread. It adds color and freshness to gardens.
18. Fennel
Fennel shoots up quickly in spring and offers two tasty parts: feathery fronds and crisp bulbs. For a mild licorice flavor perfect for seafood and salads, you can harvest the fronds in about 4 to 5 weeks. It needs full sun and well-draining soil to thrive. Keep trimming the fronds to boost more growth. You can harvest the bulb for roasting or sautéing as it matures. Letting a few plants bloom invites pollinators and adds beauty to your garden.
19. Lovage
Lovage is a robust spring herb that grows quickly and delivers a bold, celery-like flavor. Its leaves are ready for harvest in about 4 to 5 weeks and can elevate soups, stews, and stocks with a rich, savory note. For best growth, plant Lovage in moist, nutrient-rich soil and a sunny to partly shaded location. This herb can grow tall, up to six feet, so give it plenty of room or support. It’s a great perennial addition for gardeners wanting a flavorful yet under-the-radar herb.
20. Chamomile
Chamomile grows quickly in spring, adding beauty and calm to your garden. You can begin harvesting flowers in 4 to 6 weeks. These small white blooms are used in herbal teas and natural remedies. Grow it in full sun and well-drained soil for best results. It also attracts beneficial insects like bees. Snip flowers regularly to encourage blooming.
Practical Tips for Growing Fast Herbs
Want quick success? Start with quality seeds or healthy seedlings and use nutrient-rich, well-draining soil; position sun-loving herbs in the brightest part of your garden or balcony. Keep soil evenly moist, especially for young plants, but avoid waterlogging. Group herbs with similar light and water needs to simplify care. Don’t overcrowd; give plants room to breathe and grow. Add mulch around herbs to retain moisture and keep weeds down.
Easy Maintenance for Bigger Harvests
Maintaining herbs is simple with a few regular habits. Snip leaves often to encourage new growth and prevent flowering, which can reduce flavor. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves promptly. Fertilize lightly with compost or an organic liquid feed every few weeks. Watch for pests like aphids or caterpillars and treat them early. Rotate potted herbs occasionally for even sunlight exposure. With just a little attention, your herbs will thrive all spring and beyond!
Quick Flavor for Spring
Spring is the perfect season for your herb garden, especially with fast growers offering quick rewards. These herbs are ideal for adding instant freshness, color, and flavor to your meals. Whether you're a gardening rookie or a seasoned pro, they're fun to grow. With so many options, from leafy greens to edible flowering favorites, your kitchen and garden will feel vibrant in no time. Just a little care brings weeks of delicious payoff. Happy growing and happy harvesting!