Growing your own herbs can be a fulfilling and practical hobby, especially when space is limited. Whether you’re an apartment dweller or simply lack a large garden, container gardening offers a fantastic solution. Not only does it bring the joy of fresh, flavorful herbs to your kitchen, it also adds a touch of greenery to your living space (and maybe even offers a host plant for butterflies). In this blog, we’ll explore how easy it is to grow herbs in containers, particularly for those living in San Antonio, Texas, and provide tips on choosing the right containers and potting mixes.

 

Container gardening is versatile and can be adapted to fit just about any space. Whether it’s a sunny windowsill, a small balcony, or a cozy corner on your patio, we’re sure you’ve got some space for at least one little herb pot, but we bet you won’t stop at one.

Herbs in containers

Best Herbs for Container Gardening in San Antonio

San Antonio’s climate is characterized by hot summers and usually mild winters, making it ideal for a variety of herbs. When you grow herbs in containers, you’re also able to protect plants easily when inclement or freezing weather is predicted. Simply pick up the pots and move them indoors. Here are some herbs that you can grow in containers during the cooler months. Remember though, that any new plantings can be susceptible to damage from a freeze. (But you’re going to bring them inside if that happens, right?)

 

 

  1. Cilantro: You either love it, or it tastes like soap to you. Best grown in cooler months, it appreciates the well-drained conditions of a container.
  2. Borage: Beautiful true-blue flowers appear in abundance on this herb. On a sunny day, the pollinators will be grateful that you have planted this one.
  3. Thyme: A hardy herb that flourishes in sunny, dry spots, perfect for a container garden.
  4. Oregano: I can’t tell you how many times my oregano has withstood freezing temps, only to greet me again when it warmed up.
  5. Rosemary: A very aromatic herb that once established can go on to live 15 plus years if the right growing requirements are met.
  6. Dill: A tangy flavored herb that lends it’s name to describe pickles. Dill is a host plant for Black Swallowtail butterflies.
  7. Winter Savory: The taste of fresh peppercorn is found in this herb’s foliage. A great addition to soups, stews, stuffings and marinades.
  8. Nasturtiums: This herb also lends a peppery flavor, and the gorgeous and vibrant flowers it produces are edible too.

 

Please check out this other blog that has spring and summer herbs that are suitable for containers as well.

Herbs in containers

Choosing the Right Containers for Herbs

 

When selecting containers for your herbs, consider the following:

 

  • Size: Opt for containers that are at least 6-12 inches deep to accommodate root growth. Larger pots are better for herbs like rosemary that require more space. While smaller pots are suitable for thymes.
  • Material: Clay pots are attractive and provide good drainage, while plastic pots are lightweight and retain moisture better. Consider your climate and watering habits when choosing.
  • Drainage: Ensure containers have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

 

Importance of Quality Potting Mixes for Herbs in Containers

 

A high-quality potting mix is crucial for successful herb growth. Unlike garden soil, potting mixes are designed to provide excellent drainage and aeration, ensuring your herbs’ roots receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen. Look for mixes that contain materials like peat moss, vermiculite, or perlite, which improve soil structure and water retention.

Pots of herbs

Final Container Herb Tips

  • Location: Place your containers in a spot that receives 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, adjusting based on the specific needs of each herb.
  • Watering: Herbs in containers generally require more frequent watering than those in the ground. Check soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry.
  • Feeding: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to keep your herbs healthy and productive. Plants that are in containers can’t send roots out very far in search of nutrients, so you’ll have to provide it for them.

 

Growing herbs in containers is an accessible and enjoyable way to bring more flavor and greenery into your life, even when space is at a premium. With the right selection of herbs, containers, and potting mixes, anyone can create a thriving herb garden right at home. Happy gardening!

~The Happy Gardener, Lisa Mulroy