Top 10 Herbs to Grow from Seeds at Home

Basil

Basil is a versatile herb used in a variety of dishes, especially in Italian cuisine. It’s easy to grow and has a wonderful aroma.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Sow basil seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost date.
• Temperature: Basil prefers warm temperatures; keep seedlings in a sunny spot or under grow lights.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 12–18 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Pinch off the tops regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering.

Parsley

Parsley is a popular garnish and an essential ingredient in many recipes. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Soak seeds overnight before sowing to speed up germination.
• Temperature: Parsley can tolerate cooler temperatures and is frost-resistant.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Cut the outer leaves at the base for continual harvests.

Cilantro (Coriander)

Cilantro is beloved in many cuisines, from Mexican to Indian. Its leaves and seeds (coriander) are both edible.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Directly sow seeds outdoors after the last frost.
• Temperature: Prefers cooler weather; plant in early spring or fall.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Regularly trim leaves to prevent bolting.

Mint

Mint is a hardy perennial with a refreshing flavor, perfect for teas, desserts, and savory dishes.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost.
• Temperature: Mint thrives in various conditions but prefers partial shade.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Harvest leaves regularly to keep plants bushy.

Thyme

Thyme is a low-maintenance herb that adds a subtle flavor to many dishes. It’s also attractive as a ground cover.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
• Temperature: Thyme prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Snip stems just before the plant flowers for the best flavor.

Oregano

Oregano is a must-have for pizza and pasta lovers. It’s easy to grow and can be used fresh or dried.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
• Temperature: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 12–18 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Harvest leaves as needed, cutting stems back to encourage new growth.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that enhances meats, breads, and vegetables. It’s also an attractive ornamental plant.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Start seeds indoors 10–12 weeks before the last frost; rosemary has a slow germination rate.
• Temperature: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 24 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Sage

Sage is a robust herb with earthy flavors, ideal for stuffing, sausages, and teas. It’s also known for its medicinal properties.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
• Temperature: Sage prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 24 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Harvest leaves before flowering for the best taste.

Dill

Dill is great for pickling and adding a fresh flavor to salads and seafood. Both its leaves and seeds are usable.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Directly sow seeds outdoors after the last frost.
• Temperature: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Cut leaves as needed and allow some plants to go to seed.

Chives

Chives have a mild onion flavor and are excellent in salads, soups, and garnishes. Their purple flowers are also edible.

Growing Tips

• Sowing: Sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
• Temperature: Prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart.
• Harvesting: Snip leaves as needed, cutting back to about 1 inch above the soil.

These ten herbs are easy to grow from seeds and can vastly enhance your culinary repertoire. By following these tips and providing the right conditions, you'll enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh herbs right from your home garden.