Growing Herbs from Seed: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If you want a simple and rewarding way to get started with gardening, growing herbs from seed is a great choice. Starting herbs from seeds lets you save money, enjoy more variety, and control exactly how your plants are grown, right from the beginning. Herbs grown from seed often adapt better to your environment and can give you a fresh supply of flavor for your kitchen all season long.

You don’t need much space, and many herbs can be grown in pots or small garden beds. Even if you’re new to gardening, certain herbs like basil, parsley, dill, and chives are easy to grow and are perfect for beginners. Understanding the basic steps for sowing, caring for seedlings, and creating ideal growing conditions will help you succeed and enjoy healthy, lush herbs.

Key Takeaways

• Growing herbs from seed is affordable and gives you more options.
• You can start seeds indoors or sow them directly outside.
• Knowing how to care for seedlings helps you grow strong, healthy herbs.

Benefits of Growing Herbs from Seed

Starting your herb garden from seeds helps you save money, choose interesting varieties, and gives more control over how your plants are grown. Growing herbs from seeds also brings a special sense of accomplishment when you harvest what you have tended from the start.

Cost Savings and Variety

Buying mature herb plants is more expensive than starting from packets of seeds. You can usually buy a package of seeds for the price of a single potted herb at the store. This makes it possible to start many plants without going over your budget.

Seeds also open up more choices. You are not limited to what local stores carry. You can find seeds for unusual or rare herbs, or even unique flavors of common herbs. Want purple basil or lemon verbena? They’re much easier to find as seeds than as starter plants.

When you grow from seed, you can plant herbs anywhere, including in pots on your windowsill or out in the garden. This flexibility allows you to build a diverse and interesting herb garden that fits your space and needs. For details on saving money and unique plant options, visit this guide on starting herbs from seed.

Healthier and Stronger Plants

You control every step of your herbs’ growth, from selecting organic soil to deciding on fertilizer and water. This reduces your risk of accidentally introducing pests or diseases that sometimes come with store-bought plants. Healthy soil and careful watering help your herbs grow strong roots.

You can also avoid chemicals by choosing organic seeds and natural plant treatments. Since you start with seeds at home, you cut out harmful pesticides that are often used in commercial plant nurseries.

Starting your own plants makes it easier to watch out for problems like damping off, aphids, or spider mites. When you spot these early, you can solve them with simple home remedies such as a mix of liquid dish soap and vegetable oil, helping your herbs stay healthy longer. More information on growing healthy herbs can be found in this beginner’s guide to growing herbs from seed.

Satisfaction of Growing from Scratch

Planting herbs from seed lets you experience every stage—from tiny sprout to mature plant. There is a real sense of pride in harvesting herbs you’ve nurtured yourself, especially when you can use them in your kitchen.

Growing herbs from seeds helps you learn valuable gardening skills, such as how to germinate seeds, care for seedlings, and manage growing plants. This hands-on process teaches patience and responsibility.

You will notice the fresh fragrance and taste that comes from homegrown herbs. When you share meals with friends or family using your own harvest, you truly get to share the results of your hard work and dedication. For tips on making your herb garden successful from start to finish, see this simple guide to growing a herb garden from seed.

Choosing the Right Herb Seeds

The types of herb seeds you choose and how well they suit your conditions will affect how easily you can grow healthy plants. It’s important to consider your local climate, seed information, and which herbs are easiest to start from seed.

Selecting Varieties for Your Region

Your local climate and growing environment play a big role in herb growth. Some herbs, like basil and lemon balm, need warm weather and full sun to do well. If you live in a cooler area, look for cold-tolerant options such as chives, parsley, and sage. Dill and cilantro can handle light frost but dislike heat.

Always check your growing zone before picking seeds. Your region’s frost dates will tell you when to start seeds indoors or outside. Many seed companies offer varieties bred for certain climates, which can give you better results. Take note of humidity, since herbs like oregano and thyme thrive in drier conditions.

Best Herbs to Grow from Seed

Some herbs have high germination rates and are easier for beginners. Basil, dill, parsley, and cilantro sprout quickly and are forgiving if conditions aren’t perfect. Oregano and thyme are also popular choices because they’re hardy and mature into robust plants.

Chives are easy to grow from seed and adapt well indoors or outside. Mint can take longer to germinate but spreads vigorously once established, so it’s often best grown in a container. For something different, try borage for edible flowers or fennel for both culinary and ornamental use. If you want more ideas, you can find a chart of easy herbs in this beginner’s guide.

Understanding Seed Packets

Herb seed packets contain details that help you succeed. Look for key information such as germination temperature, planting depth, and whether seeds should be started indoors or sown directly. Most packets include days to germination, days to maturity, and special notes.

Pay attention to advice on light needs—some seeds, like basil, need light to sprout and should not be covered very deeply. Look for harvest tips and if thinning is required, like with cilantro or parsley. Good packets sometimes suggest specific uses, such as tea or cooking. This helps you plan your garden for both taste and success.

Planning Your Herb Garden

Picking the right spot and style for your herb garden makes a big difference in how your plants grow. Your choices also shape how easy it is to care for the garden and use your herbs for cooking or home remedies.

Garden Bed vs. Containers

You can plant herbs directly in the ground or choose containers. Garden beds work well for larger spaces and let roots spread out, which often leads to stronger, bigger plants. They need decent soil that drains well, and you may need to improve your soil before planting.

Containers are better when you have limited space or poor soil. You can move pots to sunnier spots or bring them indoors during cold weather. Containers also help control aggressive herbs like mint, which can quickly take over a garden bed. When using pots, pick one with drainage holes and use a loose, fertile potting mix.

You might also mix both methods. Plant herbs that need more space, like rosemary or sage, in the ground, while keeping smaller or fast-spreading ones in pots. This makes maintenance easier and helps you customize growing conditions for different herbs.

Designing for Culinary and Medicinal Use

Think about what herbs you use most in your meals or remedies and plan your garden around those. For a culinary herb focus, choose popular plants like basil, parsley, oregano, thyme, and chives. Group herbs together by use, or by water and sunlight needs.

If you want medicinal herbs, you might pick chamomile, calendula, or lemon balm. Some herbs, like mint, are useful both in the kitchen and as home remedies. Place high-use herbs close to the house, such as near your kitchen door, for quick snipping when cooking. Less-used or larger medicinal plants can go farther back in the garden.

Label each plant as you sow seeds or transplant seedlings, using weatherproof tags. This helps keep track of varieties, especially if you add new species later. Regularly update a simple chart or list of your herb locations and their uses.

Space and Sunlight Requirements

Herbs need the right amount of space and light to thrive. Most culinary herbs, such as basil, oregano, and thyme, need full sun, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Pick a spot that isn’t shaded by trees or buildings.

For spacing, check the package or a reliable guide for each herb’s requirements. For example, basil seedlings should be spaced about 8-12 inches apart, while smaller herbs like chives need less room. Crowded herbs have more disease problems and give lower yields.

If you only get partial sun, choose herbs that tolerate some shade, like parsley and mint. Make a quick table or sketch to lay out your garden and plan spacing before you plant anything. This helps avoid moving established plants later and supports a healthier garden from day one. For more tips on placing herbs and their light needs, you can read comprehensive guides at Gardening Chores.

Understanding Germination and Growth Requirements

Growing herbs from seeds needs careful attention to soil, moisture, temperature, and timing. Each herb has its own needs, so understanding these basics helps you grow healthy and productive plants.

Soil Preparation and Composition

For best results, start herb seeds in a fine, loose soil mix. Use seed-starting or potting mix because these are light and allow small roots to grow easily. Avoid heavy garden soil because it can compact and limit seedling growth.

The soil should be well-draining so herb seeds do not sit in water and rot. Mixing in a little perlite, sand, or vermiculite helps improve drainage. Herbs do best in soil that is not too rich; too much fertilizer can cause lush leaves but weak flavor.

Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You may test your soil and adjust with lime if it is too acidic. If growing outdoors, clear away weeds and loosen the soil. Indoors, use clean trays or pots to keep young plants safe from disease.

Temperature and Moisture Needs

Seed germination works best when both temperature and moisture are just right. Most herb seeds, like basil and parsley, sprout well at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C).

Keep the soil slightly damp but never soggy. Check every day and water with a spray bottle so you do not disturb tiny seeds. Some herbs, such as rosemary and lavender, like it a bit drier, so do not overwater. If growing seeds inside, placing a clear cover on trays can help keep moisture steady.

Getting enough sunlight is also important once seedlings appear. Herb seedlings will need at least 6-8 hours of light, or you can use grow lights if natural light is low. You can learn more about light and growing herbs from seeds at the Beginner’s No-Fail Guide.

Germination Timelines

How long your fresh herbs take to sprout can vary by species:

Fast germinators like basil and cilantro will pop up in about a week, while slower herbs such as parsley, rosemary, and lavender need up to three weeks. Be patient and keep soil conditions steady.

If seeds take longer than expected, check that you are meeting their temperature and moisture needs. For more germination tips and timelines, see this complete guide on herb seed growth.

Starting Herbs from Seed Indoors

Growing herbs from seed indoors lets you start your garden any time of year. You can control temperature, light, and watering for successful germination and healthy seedlings.

Supply List and Tools Needed

Gathering the right materials before you start will make the process smoother and help your herbs thrive. You will need:

• Seed trays or shallow containers with drainage holes
• High-quality seed starting mix (avoid using yard soil)
• Herb seeds such as basil, parsley, chives, cilantro, or thyme
• Plant labels or markers to keep track of your varieties
• Spray bottle for gentle watering
• Clear plastic lids or plastic wrap to trap moisture
• Grow lights if you do not have a sunny window
• Small fan for air circulation if possible

Using clean containers helps prevent mold and disease. Choose a sterile seed starting mix for consistent moisture and drainage. If you want more details, you can find a list of possible herbs and more tool tips at Gardening Know How.

Step-by-Step Sowing Process

Begin by filling your trays with damp seed starting mix. Press the seeds lightly onto the surface or cover them with a thin layer of soil. Most herb seeds only need to be buried about twice their thickness.

Water gently with a spray bottle to avoid moving the seeds. Cover the tray with a clear lid or plastic wrap to keep the surface moist until the seeds sprout.

Place the trays in a warm spot. Most herb seeds germinate best at 65-75°F (18-24°C). Once you see green sprouts, remove the cover and give seedlings room to breathe. Consistently moist, but not soggy, soil leads to healthy roots.

Thin seedlings as needed so they have room to grow. When your seedlings have grown their first true leaves, you can increase air flow and prepare to provide more light. More details and beginner mistakes to avoid can be found in this beginner’s guide to growing herbs from seed.

Using Grow Lights for Seedlings

Herb seedlings need plenty of light to prevent them from growing long and spindly. Most windows do not provide enough direct sunlight, especially in winter.

Using grow lights will help your herbs develop sturdy stems and healthy leaves. Place the lights 2-4 inches above the seedlings and keep them on for about 12-16 hours each day.

Choose LED or fluorescent lights labeled for plant growth. Adjust the height of your lights as the plants grow to keep them close but not touching the leaves.

Check the soil moisture daily and rotate trays to keep growth even. For specific tips on selecting and using grow lights, see this indoor herb garden guide.

Planting Herb Seeds Outdoors

Planting herb seeds outdoors starts with using the right method for sowing, knowing the correct time based on frost dates, and selecting a site where herbs can thrive. Paying attention to these main points gives your herbs the best start possible for a successful harvest.

Direct Sowing Techniques

Direct sowing involves planting seeds straight into your garden soil rather than starting them indoors. This method is suitable for herbs like dill, cilantro, basil, and chives. Use a rake to loosen the top 8-10 inches of soil.

Draw shallow rows about 1/8 inch deep for small seeds or up to 1/4 inch for larger ones. Space seeds according to the instructions on the packet—usually 1-2 inches apart. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of fine soil.

Gently water the rows with a watering can using a rose attachment. Keeping the soil moist but not soggy is key during germination. Mark your rows with labels or stakes so you remember where each herb is planted. For a detailed step-by-step, see these direct sowing methods and tips.

Timing and Understanding the Frost Date

Knowing your area’s last spring frost date is crucial. Most herb seeds should be planted outdoors after this date to avoid frost damage, especially for tender varieties like basil or dill. Some hardy herbs, like parsley or chives, can tolerate cooler soil and can be sown 2-4 weeks before the final frost.

Check the directions on each seed packet for the recommended sowing time. If you do not know your frost date, look it up online or ask at a local garden center. Waiting until the days are consistently warm gives your seeds a better chance to sprout, making timing essential for healthy seedlings. More details are available in this guide about when and how to start herb seeds outdoors.

Soil and Site Selection

Choose a spot with at least 4-6 hours of full sunlight daily, as most herbs need plenty of sunshine. Select soil that drains well and is free of rocks or weeds. Heavy clay or sandy soils can be improved by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure.

Perform a simple drainage test: dig a small hole, fill it with water, and check that it drains within a few hours. Herbs prefer slightly alkaline to neutral soil, so test the pH if possible. Avoid planting in low spots where water collects, which can lead to root rot.

Before sowing, clear the area of any debris and work the soil until it’s crumbly and even. Detailed information about preparing your soil and site can be found in this outdoor herb planting guide.

Caring for Herb Seedlings

Young herb seedlings need close attention for healthy growth. You will need to give them the right amount of water, thin out crowded plants, and watch for diseases like damping off. Successful care at this stage sets up your herbs for strong development.

Watering and Feeding Practices

Watering is key for young herbs. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Letting the dirt dry out too much can stop seedling growth, but overwatering can cause roots to rot.

Use a gentle spray or a watering can with a fine nozzle. This stops seedlings from getting knocked over. Aim for the soil to feel damp if you touch it, but not muddy.

For feeding, start with a diluted liquid fertilizer when seedlings develop their first true leaves. Choose a balanced fertilizer and mix it at half the recommended strength. Feed once every two weeks.

Check seedling trays for good drainage. Poor drainage and pooling water make root problems more likely. Place trays on a rack or use trays with holes to keep roots healthy. For more tips, visit this guide to starting herbs from seed.

Thinning and Transplanting

Thinning is necessary if too many seeds germinate in one spot. Crowded seedlings compete for light, water, and nutrients. Thin out extra seedlings when they have two or three sets of true leaves.

Snip weaker plants at soil level using clean scissors. Leave the healthiest and strongest seedlings spaced about 2 inches apart. This spacing stops herbs from getting leggy and encourages bushier growth.

Once seedlings are a few inches tall and have stable roots, you can transplant them. Harden them off by putting them outside in shade for a few hours each day for about a week. After they adjust, move them to their permanent garden or container home.

Preventing Damping Off

Damping off is a fungal disease that kills herb seedlings suddenly. You may see young stems shrivel at the base, or entire trays of seedlings collapse overnight.

To prevent damping off, always use fresh, sterile seed starting mix. Clean your pots and trays with hot water and mild soap before planting. Good airflow around your seedlings also helps prevent this disease.

Avoid overwatering and let the soil surface dry slightly between waterings. Remove and discard any sick-looking seedlings right away. Provide bright light to keep seedlings growing strong. More on this problem can be found in this detailed care guide.

Growing Conditions for Popular Herbs

Different herbs have unique needs when it comes to sunlight, water, soil, and spacing. Paying attention to these growing conditions can improve the health, yield, and flavor of your plants.

Basil

Basil prefers warm temperatures and full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you live in a hot climate, some light afternoon shade can help prevent wilting.

Plant basil in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Keep the soil moist but do not let it become soggy, as basil is prone to root rot if left in standing water.

It’s best to space plants 8–12 inches apart so air can circulate. Pinch back the tops to encourage bushier growth. You can sow seeds outdoors after the last frost or start them indoors a few weeks before. Learn more about planting and care tips for basil grown from seed.

Parsley

Parsley grows best in cooler temperatures and can tolerate part shade but will thrive in a sunny spot. It needs about 4–6 hours of sunlight each day.

The soil should be rich, well-draining, and kept constantly moist but not waterlogged. Adding compost or organic matter will boost growth. Parsley seeds take longer to germinate—sometimes up to 3 weeks. Soaking the seeds overnight can help speed things up.

Sow parsley seeds in rows about 6–8 inches apart. Parsley has a long taproot, so plant it somewhere it can grow without disturbance. Consistent, light watering is important for healthy leaf production. For more tips, check the guide on growing parsley from seed.

Mint

Mint is a vigorous grower and spreads quickly, so it’s best planted in containers to prevent it from taking over your garden. It thrives in part shade to full sun, but too much direct sun in hot climates can scorch the leaves.

Mint prefers moist, well-drained soil. The ideal pH range is 6.0 to 7.0. Water mint regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but never soggy. Fertilize lightly once or twice during the growing season for best results.

Space plants or containers about 12–18 inches apart to let them spread. Trim mint often to encourage fresh, tender growth. Growing in pots can help you manage its aggressive roots and make harvesting easier.

Oregano

Oregano grows best in full sun and needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for strong flavor development. It is tolerant of poor, dry soils as long as there is good drainage.

Aim for a soil pH of 6.0 to 8.0. Oregano does not need frequent watering; let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. Too much water can dull the taste and lead to root problems.

Plant oregano seeds or seedlings 12–18 inches apart. Regularly pinch or cut stems to encourage full, bushy plants and more flavorful leaves. Find more tips for growing oregano from seed at home.

Light and Sun Requirements for Herb Growth

Herbs need the right amount of light to grow strong and healthy. Both the type of light and the number of hours each day matter for flavor, size, and overall plant health.

Full Sun vs. Partial Shade

Most common herbs like basil, rosemary, thyme, and oregano do best in full sun, which means at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. This sunlight increases essential oil production, making the leaves more flavorful for cooking.

Some herbs, such as parsley, mint, and chives, can also grow in partial shade. These plants need only 3 to 6 hours of direct sunlight. Herbs grown in partial shade may have larger, more tender leaves, but some flavor may be reduced.

To help you decide where to place each herb, see the table below:

Giving too little light can lead to weak, leggy plants and poor flavor.

You can read a detailed guide to herb light requirements at How Much Sun Do Herbs Need?.

Adjusting for Indoor and Outdoor Locations

If you are growing herbs outdoors, choose a sunny area that gets plenty of direct light. Avoid spots shaded by buildings or trees. Move pots during the year if needed to catch the changing sun angle.

Indoors, place pots near a south-facing window to get the most sunlight. Herbs inside usually need more hours of light, about 8 to 12 hours a day, because window glass and walls reduce intensity. This is where grow lights can help.

Many herbs like basil will not grow well if the light is too weak. Consider using LED grow lights and place them about 6 to 12 inches above the plants for best results.

Rotate your pots every few days to make sure all sides get light. For more on light requirements indoors, check Herbs Light Requirements Guide: Natural vs Artificial Light.

Harvesting and Using Fresh Herbs

Harvesting fresh herbs at the right time keeps plants healthy and gives you the best flavor. With simple care, you can use these herbs in your kitchen or save them for later.

When and How to Harvest

Pick your herbs early in the morning after the dew dries, but before the sun gets hot. This timing helps preserve their natural oils—which are responsible for each herb’s flavor and aroma. Wait until your plant is big enough to handle a trim. Most herbs can be harvested once they reach about 6 inches tall.

For annual herbs like basil or cilantro, cut just above a leaf pair. This encourages bushier growth. On perennial herbs, such as chives or rosemary, trim a few inches from the tips rather than cutting too far down the stem. You should avoid harvesting more than a third of the plant at one time so the herb can keep growing.

Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Clean tools help prevent disease. More harvesting tips here.

Preserving Herb Flavor

To preserve flavor, use fresh herbs soon after harvesting. If you need to store them, wrap soft herbs (like parsley or basil) in a damp paper towel and place them inside a loose plastic bag in the fridge. Woody herbs (like rosemary and thyme) can often be stored upright in a glass of water.

For long-term storage, consider drying or freezing. Hang small bunches upside down in a warm, dry place until the leaves are crisp. You can also chop herbs and freeze them in ice cube trays with water or oil. This helps preserve flavor for months.

Try to harvest before your herbs flower, since leaves tend to lose flavor after flowering.

Maximizing Culinary Uses

Fresh herbs can transform everyday meals. Add chopped parsley or basil just before serving to keep their bright flavor. Use woody herbs like rosemary or thyme early in cooking so their flavors have time to blend. Fresh chives, dill, and cilantro work well as garnishes for eggs, salads, and soups.

You can make herb butters, pestos, or herbal teas for more ways to enjoy your harvest. If you have extra, blend herbs with oil to create a paste and freeze it for later use. For other ideas, check out these herb cooking tips.

Use the freshest leaves, rinse them in cool water, and pat dry before adding to recipes for the best taste and aroma.

Troubleshooting and Advanced Tips

Growing herbs from seed brings unique challenges, from managing pests to stretching the harvest into cooler months. Paying attention to common pitfalls and adopting proven techniques keeps your herb garden thriving with less stress.

Common Problems and Solutions

If your herb seeds are not sprouting, always start by checking seed viability. Place a few seeds between two damp paper towels in a warm, dark spot. If they do not germinate in a few days, you may need fresh seeds. Details on this process are provided at checking seed viability.

Moisture and temperature are critical. Seeds need evenly damp but not soggy soil, and most herb varieties sprout best at 65-75°F (18-24°C). Too much water can cause rot, while too little can dry seeds out. Using a spray bottle helps maintain even moisture.

Light is another problem. Basil, parsley, and dill germinate best with strong light, so keep trays near a bright window or under grow lights. If seedlings get long and spindly, they need more light. For soil, use a well-draining mix with compost to encourage strong roots.

Quick Tips:

• Use sterile soil to avoid damping-off disease.
• If seedlings wilt or fall over at the base, cut back on watering and increase airflow.
• Always label your trays to track what you plant and when.

Extending the Growing Season

To harvest herbs for longer, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost. Move seedlings outside once nighttime temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C).

Cold frames, cloches, or row covers allow you to keep herbs growing even when nights turn cool. These tools trap heat and protect plants from frost. Portable greenhouses or placing pots inside on cool nights are also helpful.

Herbs like parsley and chives can handle cool weather and keep producing after others stop. For tender herbs like basil, pinch back the stems to encourage bushy growth and delay flowering. Keep snipping leaves regularly—this prevents plants from going to seed too soon and keeps flavors fresh. If extreme cold is expected, bring containers indoors or wrap them for extra warmth.

Sustaining a Productive Herb Garden

Regular maintenance keeps your herb garden healthy and harvests bountiful. Water deeply but less often to help roots grow strong, and fertilize lightly every few weeks using compost or a balanced organic fertilizer.

Keep cutting your herbs. Harvesting small amounts often—especially for basil, mint, and cilantro—keeps plants compact and productive. Always remove flower buds as soon as you see them unless you want to collect seed. Flowering tends to reduce both leaf production and flavor.

Watch for pests like aphids or whiteflies. Remove them by hand or wash plants gently with water if needed. If soil looks exhausted partway through the season, add a thin layer of compost on top and water it in.

Keep an eye out for symptoms of disease such as yellowing leaves or fuzzy stems. Prune damaged plant parts and ensure good spacing for airflow. For more on maintaining healthy soil, visit improving potting mix drainage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Germinating herb seeds and growing healthy plants takes the right methods, patience, and attention to detail. Picking easy-to-grow options, choosing the correct potting mix, and understanding light and temperature are all important steps.

What are the best practices for starting herbs from seed indoors?

Use a high-quality seed starting mix that is light and drains well. Plant your herb seeds in small containers or starter trays. Make sure the soil stays moist but not soggy.

Provide at least 6-8 hours of sunlight, either from a window or a grow light. Keep seeds warm, ideally between 70-75°F. Label your containers to track which herbs you are growing. For more step-by-step guidance, see these tips for starting herbs from seed.

How long should I expect to wait before my herb seeds germinate?

Most herb seeds germinate within 7 to 14 days if the temperature and moisture are right. Some herbs like basil or cilantro sprout quickly, while others like parsley can take longer—sometimes up to 21 days.

If your seeds take longer, check that the soil is warm and kept evenly moist.

What is the most successful method for growing herbs in pots from seed?

Choose a container with drainage holes and fill it with moist seed starter mix. Plant 2-3 seeds in each pot, at the depth suggested on the seed packet. Place the pots in a bright spot.

Mist the surface with water to keep it damp but not wet. Thin the seedlings so only the strongest remain. Find more details about growing herbs from seed in pots online.

Which herbs are known to be the easiest to grow from seed for beginners?

Basil, cilantro, dill, and chives are all good choices for new gardeners. These herbs germinate quickly and are not fussy about soil or care.

Parsley and mint are also popular, but