How to Grow Herbs in Washington

Choose a location for your herb garden that is close to the kitchen and gets full sun. If using a planter or window box, place it directly outside of a sunny kitchen window for full sun and easy access.

Select herbs from seed packets or plant starts, depending on how soon you would like to use them. Although they are more expensive, large plant starts can be used right away. Seeds are less expensive but will take up to six weeks of growth before use.

Select a planting date that is after the last frost in your growing region. In Washington State, most locations will have a last frost date in late May. To find out your specific growing zone in Washington, check the USDA map of growing seasons (see the link below under Resources).

Dig up your garden plot, breaking up dirt clumps and evening out the soil. Add a one-inch layer of compost on top of the soil to increase the soil health and allow for adequate drainage. Mix the soil and compost together and even out the soil again. If using containers, follow the same instructions, unless you have potting soil that includes compost.

Plant the seeds and/or starts following directions on your chosen herbs for planting depth and spacing. Water the plants or seeds immediately after planting.

Water herbs as needed, making sure to keep the ground wet, but not soaked. In high-precipitation areas of Washington State, you may need to water your herbs very little. In drier zones in Eastern Washington, you may need to water every day.