Trudi’s Tips for Container Herb Gardening

Photo by Matt Montgomery on Unsplash

Want a garden but don’t have a green thumb? No problem. Container gardening is an easy way to create a beautiful display of greenery — even if you don’t have a yard. All you need is a place to fit a few pots, such as a small terrace, patio, balcony, deep windowsill, or even the front steps.

If you cook regularly, planting herbs will save you both time and money. Instead of buying a bunch of sage for a recipe and only using a couple of tablespoons, you can harvest your herbs right out of the pot anytime you need it — and never waste a leaf. 

Herbs are one of the easiest things to grow. San Francisco’s many microclimates can provide full sun or partial shade, so your garden always looks lush. Grab a 6-pack of seedlings at the grocery store or a local nursery, such as Sloat Garden Center, Clement Nursery, or Flora Grubb. 

My favorite annual herbs to grow are parsley, cilantro, basil, and dill. For perennial herbs, try mint, chives, and tarragon. Don’t be afraid to mix and match herbs in larger pots, adding interest with various heights, textures, and shades of green. 

Choose 8"-30" glazed ceramic, terracotta, fiberglass, or plastic pots with drainage holes. I like using nylon mesh screens or a few layers of cheesecloth at the bottom to ensure proper drainage while preventing the soil from escaping when watering. 

Use rich, organic potting soil, which is readily available at garden centers. You can also find it in big box stores and nurseries throughout the spring season. 

Water your plants 1-2x per week. The frequency varies depending on the weekly weather, your neighborhood, pot size, and placement. Just remember that you’re aiming for slightly moist but never soggy soil. 

And voilà! Snip your herbs as needed. They’re perfect for morning omelets, lunchtime salads, pre-dinner cocktails, evening pastas, and more. Bon appétit!