How to Plant Herbs in Pots Outdoors

Planting herbs in pots outdoors is a great way to add some greenery to your patio, balcony or garden. Not only do they add a pop of color, but herbs also provide fresh and flavorful ingredients for your meals. Here are some tips for successfully planting herbs in pots outdoors.

Choose the Right Herbs

The first step to planting herbs in pots outdoors is to choose the right herbs. Some of the most popular herbs for outdoor gardening include basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage and mint. These herbs do well in outdoor environments and have a reputation for being easy to grow.

In addition to choosing herbs that do well outdoors, it's important to select herbs that you will actually use. Think about the types of dishes you like to cook and choose herbs that will complement those flavors. For example, if you enjoy Italian food, consider growing basil and oregano. If you enjoy tea, consider growing mint.

Select the Right Pot

The right pot is essential for successful herb gardening. When selecting a pot, choose one that has drainage holes to allow excess water to drain out. The size of the pot will depend on the size of the herb you are planting, but a pot that is at least 6-8 inches in diameter is a good starting point.

Choose a pot that is made of a sturdy material that will hold up to outdoor weather conditions. Terra cotta pots are a popular choice, but they can dry out quickly in sunny locations. Plastic pots are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other options.

Prep the Soil

Before planting your herbs, it's important to prepare the soil. Use a high-quality potting mix that is designed for outdoor gardening. This will provide your herbs with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.

Fill your pot with potting mix, leaving a few inches of space at the top. This will allow room for watering without overflowing the pot. Add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil to further enhance the growth of your herbs.

Plant Your Herbs

Now that your pot is prepped, it's time to plant your herbs. Start by removing your herbs from their original containers and gently loosening the roots. Place the herbs in the pot, making sure to leave enough space between each plant to allow for growth.

Add potting mix around the herbs to fill in any gaps and lightly tamp down the soil. Finally, water your herbs thoroughly, making sure that the soil is evenly moist throughout the pot.

Care for Your Herbs

Caring for your herbs is essential to their growth and survival. Make sure that your herbs receive enough sunlight, at least 6 hours per day. Water your herbs regularly, but be careful not to overwater. Herbs do not like to sit in water, so make sure that the soil is allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.

Add fertilizer every few weeks to keep your herbs nourished. Prune your herbs regularly to encourage new growth and prevent them from becoming too leggy. Finally, keep an eye out for pests or diseases and treat them promptly if they appear.

In Conclusion

Planting herbs in pots outdoors is a fun and rewarding way to add some greenery to your outdoor space. With the right herbs, pots, soil and care, you can enjoy fresh and flavorful herbs all season long.