How to Keep Your Herbs Alive No Matter What

Herbs are some of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow—until they suddenly start drooping, yellowing, or drying out. Whether you’re growing basil on the windowsill or rosemary in the backyard, keeping herbs happy takes more than just watering them when you remember.

Luckily, a few small changes can make a big difference in keeping your herb garden thriving. These tips work whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned green thumb. Here’s how to keep your herbs alive—no matter what.

Give Them Enough Light

Most herbs need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to grow strong and flavorful. A sunny windowsill or a setup with programmable LED lighting can work wonders for indoor herbs, offering consistent light even when natural sunlight is limited. Without enough light, they get leggy and weak fast.

Don’t Overwater

Overwatering is one of the top ways to accidentally kill herbs. Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again, and always use well-draining pots. Most herbs prefer slightly dry soil over soggy roots.

Choose the Right Container

Pots with drainage holes are a must, especially for indoor herbs. Without proper drainage, water builds up and causes root rot. Terra cotta pots are especially great because they allow soil to breathe.

Use Quality Soil

Herbs thrive in light, well-draining soil that doesn’t compact. A mix designed for vegetables or indoor plants works best—avoid heavy garden soil for container growing. Good soil helps roots stay healthy and absorb nutrients easily.

Trim Regularly

Frequent harvesting or pinching back encourages herbs to grow bushier and prevents them from flowering too soon. Once herbs flower, they can lose flavor or stop growing altogether. Don’t be afraid to give them a good snip!

Don’t Crowd Them

Herbs need airflow to prevent mold and mildew, so avoid planting them too close together. In pots, one herb per container is usually best unless they’re small varieties. Outdoors, give each plant a few inches of space to stretch.

Feed Them Lightly

Unlike vegetables, herbs don’t need heavy fertilization. Use a diluted organic liquid fertilizer once a month during active growth. Overfeeding can actually reduce the flavor and aroma of your herbs.

Know Their Preferences

Different herbs have different needs—basil loves water and warmth, while thyme and rosemary prefer drier conditions. Get to know what each herb likes to avoid common mistakes. Treating all herbs the same is a recipe for failure.

Protect Them From Cold

Many herbs are sensitive to temperature drops, especially basil, which wilts below 50°F (10°C). Bring pots inside during cold nights or use frost covers in the garden. Even a light chill can stunt growth or kill tender herbs.

Watch for Pests

Aphids, spider mites, and fungus gnats love herbs just as much as you do. Check your plants regularly and treat infestations early with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Healthy herbs are more pest-resistant, so prevention is key.

Keeping herbs alive doesn’t require a green thumb—just the right care and attention to what your plants really need. With these tips, your herbs will stay lush, flavorful, and ready to elevate every dish you cook.