Can You Use Regular Dirt for Growing Herbs?

Soil

• Herbs can grow well in regular dirt, or the typical backyard garden soil, if certain conditions apply. Most herbs like a well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should have a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Although the majority of herbs grow poorly in wet soils, a few exceptions exist. Mint and lemon-grass will both flourish in wet soils. The location of the soil also plays a critical role in herb development. Most herbs needs a site that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.

Drainage

• A key aspect of site selection when planting herbs involves drainage. Since few herbs prefer moist soils, you need to provide your plants with a well-drained soil. Fortunately, you can improve a moist site by modifying the soil yourself. Dig out the area where you intend to plant the herbs to a depth of 15 to 18 inches. Apply a 3-inch layer of crushed stone to the area. Mix compost or peat moss into the removed soil and replace it on top of the crushed stone. Planting in raised beds also improves drainage.

Improving Soil

• A good soil for most herbs should contain an average amount of organic material. A soil that is too rich in nutrients causes many herbs to grow leaves that have an inferior flavor. Take a sample of your garden soil to your county extension for a soil test. The results will tell you if your soil needs improvement. Add compost, peat moss or fertilizer as necessary.

Container

• Herbs tend to grow well when planted in containers. Pure garden soil is rarely recommended as a medium for container plants, as it might contain weeds or insect larvae. You can purchase commercial mixes for your herbs that don't contain garden soil or that have sterilized any soil used in the mix to eliminate weeds, insects or other organisms. You can also mix together your own potting medium from materials such as peat moss and vermiculite.