How To Grow Herbs From Seeds Step-by-Step
Starting a garden from scratch can seem daunting, especially if you’re unsure where to start. But it doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, growing herbs from seeds is a great way to get started. Not only is it more affordable than buying plants, but you’ll also have a greater variety to choose from.
How Do You Grow Herbs From Seeds?
Choose the right herb seeds
Get your pot and soil ready
Plant the herb seeds in the soil
Water and fertilize your herbs seeds
Watch your herb garden grow
Harvest your herbs when they're ready
The process of growing herbs from seeds is not as difficult as it may seem. In fact, with a few simple steps, anyone can do it. In this article, we put together a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
How To Grow Herbs From Seeds Step-By-Step
If you're looking for a fun and easy way to add fresh herbs to your cooking, then you should consider growing them from seeds. The following steps will help you to grow fresh herbs from seeds and enjoy the process.
Choose The Right Herb Seeds
The first step is to choose the right herb seeds. There are many different types of herbs, so it's important to select the ones that you're most interested in. You can find herb seeds at your local nursery or online.
When selecting herb seeds, it's important to consider the climate where you live.
Some herbs grow well in warm climates, while others thrive in colder climates. It's also important to choose herbs that are native to your area. This will help to ensure that your plants are healthy and thrive.
Is there a difference when choosing herb seeds outdoors vs indoors?
There is not a big difference when choosing herb seeds outdoors or indoors. You can grow most herbs from seeds successfully in both environments. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when growing herbs from seeds indoors.
For example, some herbs need more light than others. If you're growing herbs indoors, make sure to place them near a window where they will get plenty of sunlight.
Another thing to keep in mind when growing herbs indoors is that you'll need to water them more frequently. This is because the air inside your home is typically drier than the outdoors.
Get Your Pot and Soil Ready
The next step is to get your pot and soil ready. You'll need a pot that's large enough to accommodate the size of your plant when it's fully grown. Fill the pot with high-quality potting soil, and make sure to moisten it before planting your herb seeds.
There are many different types of potting soil available on the market, but it's important to choose one that is specifically designed for herb seeds. The potting soil should be rich in nutrients and able to hold moisture well. It's also important to choose potting soil that is pH-neutral.
Plant The Herb Seeds In The Soil
Once you've chosen the perfect potting soil, it's time to plant your herb seeds. Plant the seeds about ½ inch deep in the soil. Make sure to space them out evenly so that each seed has enough room to grow.
It's important to keep the soil moist but not too wet. Water the plants every few days, and be sure to mist the leaves if the air in your home is dry.
Another thing you can do to prepare the soil is to add compost. This will help to enrich the soil and provide your plants with essential nutrients. You can find compost at your local nursery or online.
Water and Fertilize Your Herbs Seeds Regularly
Once your herb seeds have been planted, it's important to water and fertilize them regularly.
One way to remember to water and fertilize your herb seeds is to set a reminder on your phone or calendar. This will help to make it a habit, and you won't forget to take care of your herb plants.
There is a product you can use that will make watering and fertilizing your herb plants from seeds easier. This product is called a "self-watering globe."
A self-watering globe is an easy way to water your plants without having to remember to do it every day. It's also a great way to distribute water evenly to your plants.
Another benefit of using a self-watering globe is that it helps to prevent the soil from becoming too wet or too dry.
This is important, especially when you're growing herbs from seeds indoors. You can find self-watering globes online or at your local nursery. They come in various sizes, so be sure to choose one that's the right size for your needs.
Watch Your Herb Garden Grow
The final step is to sit back and watch your herb garden grow. It's important to keep an eye on your plants to spot any problems early on.
For example, if you see that one of your plants is wilting, it's likely that it's not getting enough water. Make sure to check the soil to see if it's too dry. If it is, water your plant immediately.
If you see that one of your plants is starting to yellow or brown, it's likely that it's not getting enough sunlight. Move your plant to a sunnier location, and make sure to check the soil to see if it's too wet.
If it is, water your plant less frequently. With a little care and attention, your herb garden from seeds will thrive. Soon, you'll be able to enjoy fresh herbs in your favorite dishes.
Harvest Your Herbs When They're Ready
Once your herbs are big and strong enough, it's time to harvest them.
Start by snipping off the tips of the herb plants. This will promote new growth and make your herbs last longer.
The best time to harvest herbs is in the morning after the dew has evaporated but before the sun gets too hot. This is when the herbs are at their peak flavor.
After you've harvested your herbs, it's important to store them properly so that they don't lose their flavor.
The best way to store fresh herbs is to put them in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. If you want to store your herbs for longer, you can dry them or freeze them. Drying herbs is easy to do, and it's a great way to preserve their flavor.
To dry herbs, tie a bunch of herbs together with string and hang them upside down in a dark, dry place. Once the herbs are completely dry, strip the leaves from the stems and store them in a glass jar.
To freeze herbs, wash and chop them, then put them in a freezer-safe container. You can also put them in ice cube trays and cover them with water or olive oil. Then, when you're ready to use them, just pop out a frozen herb cube and add it to your dish.
Pro Tips On Planting Herbs From Seeds Outdoors
Our top three most recommended herbs to grow from seed are basil, dill, and thyme. Other herbs can take a long time to germinate but are very possible to sprout at home. These include herbs like sage, cilantro, parsley, and lovage.
However, we think herbs like lavender, oregano, and mint are best grown out from plants purchased online or at your local nursery.
The reason for this distinction is that when you plant these herbs from seed, there is a ton of genetic variety inherent in those seeds.
When you plant from a purchased plant, you are getting a rooted cutting, an exact replica of the parent plant. The parent plant was one that was chosen for its beauty, aroma, flavor, plant stature and longevity in the garden.
Planting these herbs from seed, you do not get the same tried and true workhorse plant.
Growing Very Small Herbs From Seeds
Some herbs, like basil and dill, have very small seeds. If you're having trouble getting these to germinate, you can try a process called pre-germination. Use the following tips:
1. Place the seed on a moist paper towel and fold it over.
2. Put the paper towel in a zip-lock bag and place it in a warm, dark place.
3. Check on the seed daily, and when it sprouts, plant it in soil.
Conclusion
Growing herbs from seeds is a great way to get started with herb gardening. It's also a cost-effective way to get a wide variety of herbs. By following the tips in this guide, you'll be well on your way to growing a thriving herb garden from seeds.
If you're interested in learning how to grow herbs from seeds, then the Khela Herbs garden mentorship program is the perfect way to get started. This program offers step-by-step instructions and support from an expert gardener. You'll learn everything you need to know about growing herbs from seeds to harvest.
How To Grow Herbs From Seeds Related Questions
When should I plant herb seeds?
The best time to plant herb seeds is in the spring, after the last frost. You can also plant herbs in the fall, but you'll need to start them indoors so that they have a chance to germinate.
How long does it take to grow herbs from seeds?
It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for herb seeds to germinate. Once they've germinated, it will take another 2-3 months for them to reach maturity.
Is it better to plant herbs from seeds or plants?
There are benefits to both planting herbs from seeds and plants. If you plant from seeds, you'll have a wider variety of herbs to choose from. However, it takes longer for them to reach maturity. If you plant from plants, you'll be able to harvest your herbs sooner, but you'll have less variety.
What is the best pot size for growing herbs from seeds?
The best pot size for growing herbs from seeds is a 4-inch pot. This will give the roots enough room to grow without being too crowded. You will also find helpful advice in our article 15 Best Herbs To Grow In Pots. In that post, we detail the best pot size and additional tips for beginner and advanced gardeners.