How to Water Herb Plants

Plant your herbs in sections according to how much water they need. Do research before you plant them. For example, if you plant rosemary, lavender and echinacea, they do not require a lot of water. However mint and basil, which require the soil to stay consistently moist, should be planted separately from the others.

Water each section separately using a 3-gallon watering can. Herbs, even varieties that need a lot of moisture, can still die if they are overwatered. Sprinklers are not recommended for watering herbs. Sprinklers can be set and forgotten. They simply add too much water to the ground and may cause the roots to become too saturated. Using a watering can is recommended. Evenly pour water over the herbs. Go over the herbs that need additional water one extra time.

Water herbs using a hand sprayer instead of a watering can if you choose. The rule of thumb when watering herbs with a hand sprayer is 5 minutes per section and an additional 2 minutes for herbs that need more water.

Cut back on watering if your herbs do not thrive, if they look wilted,or if algae appears around the soil. Learning to water your herbs with a green thumb often takes practice. Remember that if the weather is extremely hot (85 degrees or hotter), herbs should be watered every two days, especially if they're in direct sunlight (which may kill certain herbs, so always read growing instructions).