Growing herbs at home is a simple yet rewarding way to enhance your meals with fresh flavors and gain access to a host of health benefits. In this blog, we’ll cover five must-grow herbs—basil, cilantro, parsley, thyme, and oregano—detailing how to care for them and the unique health advantages they offer.

1. Basil:

Basil thrives in full sunlight, so choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth. Make sure to regularly pinch off the top leaves of the plants to encourage bushier growth and prevent them from flowering too early. If basil flowers too early, it can negatively affect the plant’s growth and flavor. This also helps maintain a steady supply of fresh leaves for harvesting. Also perfect as a potted herb for indoors.

Heath Benefits:

–Anti-inflammatory: Contains eugenol, which can help reduce inflammation.

–Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants that protect the body from free radical damage.

–Digestive Health: Can aid digestion and reduce bloating.

2. Cilantro:

Love it or hate it, Cilantro is making the list. Cilantro is a versatile herb with a distinct citrusy and fresh flavor. Use the leaves (cilantro) as well as the seeds (coriander). Put cilantro in a location that receives partial to full sunlight, especially in cooler climates. In hot regions, cilantro benefits from partial shade to prevent it from bolting (producing flowers) too quickly. Cilantro has a relatively short growing season and tends to bolt quickly in warm weather. To ensure a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.

Health Benefits:

–Detoxification: Helps the body eliminate heavy metals.

–Antimicrobial: Contains dodecenal, which has antibacterial properties.

–Digestive Aid: Can reduce bloating and discomfort.

3. Parsley:

Parsley is a versatile herb with a fresh and slightly peppery flavor. It freezes well and the stems can be used in broths too. Parsley will do well in a location that receives partial to full sunlight. To ensure a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season. Regularly harvest the outer parsley leaves to encourage bushy growth and prevent the plants from bolting prematurely.

Health Benefits:

–Rich in Vitamins: High in vitamins A, C, and K.

–Bone Health: Contains vitamin K, which is essential for bone health.

–Antioxidants: Provides a good amount of antioxidants like flavonoids.

4. Thyme:

Place in a location that receives full sunlight, they thrives in bright, sunny conditions. Trim plants regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent them from becoming leggy. Pinch off the tips of the stems to promote branching and encourage new growth.

Health Benefits:

–Respiratory Health: Can help alleviate symptoms of bronchitis and coughs.

–Antimicrobial: Contains thymol, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties.

–Skin Health: Can be used to treat acne and other skin conditions.

5. Oregano:

Oregano handles very much the same way as thyme. Full sun for optimal growth. Trim regularly for optimal growth and to keep them from getting leggy.

Health Benefits:

–Immune Boosting: High in antioxidants that boost the immune system.

–Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds that reduce inflammation.

–Digestive Health: Can aid in digestion and help treat gastrointestinal disorders.

If you’re still not convinced to start a herb garden after reading this article, and you need more enticing, maybe this will do. Herbs thrive in smaller spaces and are ideal for urban dwellers or those with limited room. Whether on a windowsill, balcony, or kitchen counter, herbs flourish in compact environments, bringing the joy of gardening to homes of all sizes. This accessibility transforms any space into a fragrant and flavorful haven, ready to enhance culinary creations with a simple reach for fresh, home-grown herbs. Grow these 5 Must Grow Herbs and enjoy a beautiful and flavorful kitchen.

Start growing today and savor the freshness of nature at your fingertips! x

Please note: All herb links are clickable and available to purchase

If you’re considering starting a garden this season check out our blog post: Best Seedling Picks for Zone 7a: Kickstart your Garden Indoors