The Best Herbs to Grow in a Patio Garden

Basil

A sun-loving annual herb, basil thrives in moist soil and grows up to 2 feet tall, making it an ideal companion plant in larger containers alongside herbs like parsley and thyme.

Chives

These perennial grassy herbs, known for their edible leaves and pink-purple blooms, prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them a great addition to container gardens.

Cilantro

Also called coriander, cilantro is an annual herb that grows well in sun or partial shade, requiring deep containers due to its long taproot, with some varieties reaching up to 2 feet tall.

Tarragon

This French herb, with a bold flavor, thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, reaching heights of up to 3 feet and tolerating drought, making it suitable for Zones 5-9 as a perennial.

Lavender

A perennial shrub that flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil, lavender requires minimal water and fertilizer, growing up to 2 feet tall and hardy in Zones 5-10.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, a perennial herb hardy in Zones 3-10, spreads easily and grows well in partial shade to full sun, thriving in moist, rich soil up to 2 feet tall.

Lemon Verbena

This tropical shrub, suitable for Zones 9-10, prefers full sun and well-drained soil, reaching heights of up to 3 feet when grown in containers as an annual.

Marjoram

Similar to oregano but with a milder flavor, marjoram grows well in full sun and well-drained soil, reaching heights of up to 2 feet and perennial in Zones 8-10, suitable for container gardening in colder climates.