Creating a DIY Herb Garden

There’s something wildly romantic about growing herbs. Maybe it’s the old-world kitchen vibes. Maybe it’s the feeling of plucking a sprig of rosemary like you’re starring in a movie like Practical Magic (one of my all-time favorite movies!). Or maybe it’s because herbs are the gateway drug to gardening (ask me how I know). Whatever it is, I love starting summer with a few pots of herbs on the windowsill—or, if I’m feeling generous, gifting a DIY herb garden to a friend. It’s thoughtful, affordable, and a little bit magical.

So whether you’re dreaming of fresh basil for your pasta nights or crafting the perfect summer hostess gift, here’s how to create a DIY herb garden you (or someone you love) will use all season long. While it might be too late in some areas to begin your garden from seeds, there are still baby plants available at most nurseries.

 How to Create a DIY Herb Garden Step 1: Choose Your Herbs Wisely

If you’re planting for your own kitchen, think about what you cook most often. If you’re gifting the garden, go for beginner-friendly favorites.

Easy & Versatile Herbs:

Basil – for summer salads, pasta, and pestoThyme – amazing with roasted veggies and chickenMint – great for iced tea, mojitos, and dessertsParsley – fresh and bright in everythingRosemary – earthy, fragrant, and hardyChives – perfect for eggs, potatoes, and soupsLavender – lovely in baked goods, tea, or just for scent Step 2: Pick the Perfect Container

You don’t need a big yard. herbs are happy in just about anything.

For You:

A kitchen windowsill boxA trio of terra cotta pots by the back doorA vintage teacup garden (yes, really! And I often find vintage teacups at thrift shops.)

For a Gift:

A wooden crate or berry box with mini pots insideA long ceramic planter for windowsillsSmall galvanized buckets with tags and twine

Tie it all together with a handwritten note: “Here’s to flavor, fragrance, and the slow joy of summer. ”

Step 3: Use Good Soil

Herbs like well-drained soil. Pick up a bag of organic potting mix (bonus points if it’s made for edibles). Add a little gravel or broken pottery at the bottom of each pot to prevent soggy roots. Then fill the pots 3/4 of the way with good soil. Plant your herbs, adding extra soil if necessary. Don’t pack the dirt, though. You want the soil to be dense but loose enough to absorb water, light, and air.

Step 4: Know Thy Light

Most herbs like at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. If you’re keeping them indoors, a sunny south-facing window works best. Outdoors, they’re happy on a patio, balcony, or porch. Also, check the growing directions of each herb. Some plants thrive in the high heat and humidity of mid-day, others prefer to be outside in the morning and later afternoon, but prefer to hide in the AC (like me!) at noon.

Step 5: Water With Love

Herbs don’t like soggy soil, but they don’t like to dry out, either. Keep the soil lightly moist, and water in the mornings if you can. And don’t be afraid to snip and use them! Regular trimming helps herbs grow fuller and healthier.

DIY Herb Garden Gift Kit

If you’re giving this as a gift, here’s what to include in your Herb Garden Kit:

Inside the kit:

3–4 small herb plants or seed packetsA container (box, crate, or pretty pot)Potting soil in a small bagPlant labels or wooden markersA small watering can or misterCare instructions (printed on cute cardstock!)A handwritten recipe or tea blend idea
(Like: “Mint & Honey Iced Tea” or “Rosemary Garlic Bread”)

Wrap the box in twine or ribbon and tuck in a packet of dried lavender for a final touch.

Grow Something That Loves You Back

There’s something grounding about growing herbs. Whether you’re starting a simple kitchen garden for yourself or putting together a thoughtful summer gift, you’re cultivating beauty, flavor, and care. Even if you’ve never kept a plant alive (I see you because this used to be me!), this is the easiest—and most rewarding—way to try.

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