How to Start a Low-Maintenance Herb Garden For the Summer

Growing your own herb garden is a rewarding and simple way to enhance your cooking, save money, and add greenery to your space. With summer’s warm weather and abundant sunlight, it’s the perfect season to start a low-maintenance herb garden. Whether you have a spacious backyard or just a tiny balcony, these five easy-to-grow herbs will thrive with minimal effort.

1. Basil

Basil is a staple in many kitchens and a summer favorite for its vibrant flavor and versatility. Whether you're making fresh pesto, adding it to pasta, or using it in salads, basil is a must-have herb.

How to Grow:

- Sunlight: Full sun (6–8 hours per day)

- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy

- Soil: Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil

- Maintenance: Pinch off flowers as they appear to encourage leaf growth

Basil thrives in warm temperatures, so plant it after the last frost. You can grow it in pots or directly in the ground. Harvest leaves regularly to keep the plant healthy and productive.

2. Mint

Mint is a fast-growing herb that adds a refreshing touch to drinks, desserts, and even savory dishes. It’s one of the easiest herbs to grow, but it can quickly take over a garden if not contained.

How to Grow:

- Sunlight: Partial to full sun

- Watering: Keep soil consistently damp

- Soil: Well-draining with organic matter

- Maintenance: Prune regularly to prevent spreading

For a low-maintenance approach, grow mint in containers to keep it from overtaking other plants. It’s a great choice for beginner gardeners who want a hardy herb that requires little attention.

3. Rosemary

Rosemary is a drought-tolerant herb that adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to meats, roasted vegetables, and breads. It’s a perennial in warmer climates, meaning it can return year after year with little maintenance.

How to Grow:

- Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6 hours per day)

- Watering: Let the soil dry between waterings

- Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil

- Maintenance: Trim occasionally to encourage growth

Rosemary prefers drier conditions, so be careful not to overwater it. If you live in a colder climate, consider growing it in a pot so you can bring it indoors during winter.

4. Thyme

Thyme is a resilient herb that requires minimal watering and care. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a hassle-free herb that pairs well with a variety of dishes, from roasted meats to soups and stews.

How to Grow:

- Sunlight: Full sun

- Watering: Water sparingly; allow soil to dry between waterings

- Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soil

- Maintenance: Trim back after flowering to encourage new growth

Thyme thrives in poor soil and doesn’t require much feeding, making it perfect for a low-maintenance summer herb garden. Plus, it attracts pollinators like bees, which can benefit your entire garden.

5. Chives

Chives are mild, onion-flavored herbs that are incredibly easy to grow. They’re perfect for garnishing salads, eggs, and soups and can thrive in almost any condition.

How to Grow:

- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade

- Watering: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged

- Soil: Well-draining soil with organic matter

- Maintenance: Trim flowers to encourage leaf growth

Chives are perennials, meaning they will return year after year with little intervention. They also deter pests, making them a great companion plant for other herbs and vegetables.

Final Tips for a Low-Maintenance Herb Garden

- Use Containers: Growing herbs in pots or raised beds makes it easier to control their environment and prevent weeds.

- Choose the Right Soil: Well-draining soil is essential for healthy herbs.

- Mulch to Retain Moisture: A layer of mulch can help keep the soil moist and reduce watering needs.

- Group Herbs by Water Needs: Place drought-tolerant herbs (like rosemary and thyme) together and moisture-loving herbs (like basil and mint) in a separate area.

You can enjoy fresh, homegrown flavors all summer long with minimal effort by choosing these five easy-care herbs and following these simple tips. Happy gardening!