Soil for Growing Herbs

Soil Types

• Most herbs do best in well-drained soil. If your natural soil is heavy clay, cracked pea gravel or a coarse compost mix can improve drainage so the roots of the herbs do not drown in too much moisture. A layer of crushed stone placed at a depth of about 18 inches beneath the herb bed also will improve drainage in heavy soils. For sandy soils, a bit of rich compost will improve water retention just enough to make herbs comfortable. A soil pH level between 6 and 7 is generally best for an herb garden.

Amendments

• Herbs need little, if any, fertilizer to do well. Slow-release fertilizer pellets can be added to new container herbs to get them established. A little organic matter such as compost can help. Herbs typically respond poorly to manure. A mulch of 1 to 2 inches of composted bark will keep down weeds and warm the soil. For herbs that are especially sensitive to moisture, a mulch of gravel can protect the roots from too much moisture.

Location

• Most herbs prefer about six hours of direct sunlight. Many tolerate partial shade but most do poorly in total shade. In sunny climates, herbs can be grown year round in windowsills provided they get enough sunlight. Herbs are a popular choice for container gardening, where they do well in two parts well-drained potting soil mixed with one part coarse sand.

Watering

• Herbs are very sensitive to overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings; the plants should never be drenched. Established herbs growing outdoors will require very little watering if you live in an area with occasional rains. Established herbs indoors will benefit from an occasional misting and light watering when the soil becomes dry.