How to Start a Raised Bed Herb Garden — Meadowlark Journal (2024)

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Imagine having a range of herbs like fragrant rosemary and sweet basil at your disposal.

Starting a raised bed herb garden is a great way to bring fresh flavors into your kitchen and greenery into your outdoor space.

Perfect for small urban spaces, this guide will show you how to create and maintain a herb garden that fits your space and lifestyle.

With a focus on simplicity and effectiveness, we'll cover everything from choosing the right herbs to the basics of care and maintenance.

Get ready to enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own herbs, adding a personal touch to your meals and your home.

Want to learn more about starting an herb garden? Check out my guides:

• Edible Beauty: The 10 Best Flowering Herbs

• Herbs That Can Be Planted Together: The Best Combinations

• How to Propagate Rosemary: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Herbs That Actually Grow Well in Shade

Why Choose a Raised Bed Herb Garden?

Elevated Ease and Accessibility

One of the main advantages of raised bed gardening is the ease of access.

These beds are elevated, making it easier to plant, tend, and harvest herbs without the strain of bending over or kneeling on the ground.

This is particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or back pain.

Customizable Soil Quality

In a raised bed, you have full control over the soil quality.

This is a huge advantage, as you can tailor the soil to suit the specific needs of your herbs, ensuring they get the ideal mix of nutrients, drainage, and pH balance.

Unlike in-ground gardens, where you are at the mercy of the existing soil conditions, raised beds allow you to create the perfect environment for your herbs from the start.

Improved Drainage and Root Health

Raised beds offer better drainage compared to traditional garden beds.

This is crucial for herbs, as most prefer well-draining soil and are prone to root rot in overly wet conditions.

The elevated nature of raised beds allows for excess water to drain away more easily, promoting healthier root development and, in turn, more robust plants.

Check out my guide What to Put on the Bottom of a Raised Garden Bed.

Reduced Weed and Pest Problems

Raised beds are generally easier to manage in terms of weeds and pests.

The elevation tends to deter some ground pests, and with the soil being brought in, you have less chance of weed seeds being present initially.

Additionally, it's easier to spot and address any weed or pest issues before they become major problems.

Extended Growing Season

The soil in raised beds warms up faster in the spring than ground soil, allowing you to start planting earlier in the season.

Additionally, in the autumn, the soil stays warm longer, extending the growing season.

This is particularly advantageous for herbs, as you can enjoy fresh flavors for a more significant part of the year.

Aesthetic Appeal and Space Efficiency

Raised beds can be both functional and decorative.

They add structure and beauty to your garden, and their contained nature makes them an excellent choice for small spaces, including urban gardens and balconies.

You can design your raised beds to fit your aesthetic and space requirements, making them a stylish addition to your home garden.

Expand your herb garden with easy propagation. Check out my guides to learn how:

• Propagate Oregano: How to Multiply Your Herbs

• How to Propagate Basil Like a Pro

• How to Propagate Rosemary: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Growing Mint from Cuttings: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Planning Your Herb Garden

Choosing the Right Location

Sunlight is Key: Herbs thrive in sunlight.

Select a spot in your yard or on your balcony that receives a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day.

More sunlight often translates to more flavorful herbs, as the oils that give herbs their aroma and taste are produced more abundantly in full sun.

A south-facing or west-facing location will be best.

Don’t worry if you only have a shady spot, check out my guide Herbs That Actually Grow Well in Shade.

Accessibility for Regular Care: Your herb garden should be easily accessible.

This is not just for the ease of watering and harvesting, but also for the regular enjoyment and interaction with your plants.

A location that you pass by daily is ideal, as you're more likely to notice if your herbs need attention.

Understanding Your Herbs' Needs

Herb Preferences: Different herbs have different needs in terms of sunlight, water, and space.

For instance, Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, thyme, and lavender prefer drier conditions and lots of sun, whereas herbs like parsley and mint prefer more moisture and can tolerate partial shade.

Understanding these needs is crucial for planning a garden that will thrive.

For the best herb planting combinations, check out my guide Herbs That Can Be Planted Together: The Best Combinations.

Here is the thyme I recommend growing:

Seasonality and Lifespan:

Consider the growing habits of your chosen herbs.

Perennials like sage, mint, and oregano will come back year after year, while annuals like basil and cilantro will need to be replanted each season.

This will affect how you plan your garden layout and succession planting.

Here is the sage I recommend growing:

Raised Bed Herb Garden Layout

Maximizing Space:

In a raised bed, space can be optimized by planting herbs closely but not too tightly.

This close planting can help reduce weed growth and moisture loss from the soil.

Consider using companion planting principles to enhance growth and flavor, like planting basil near tomatoes.

To learn more about growing basil, check out my guide The Best Basil Companion Plants.

Here is the basil I recommend growing:

Consider Growth Habits and Height:

Plan your layout by considering the height and spread of each herb.

Taller herbs like dill or fennel should be placed where they won’t shade smaller, low-growing herbs like thyme and oregano.

Allow enough space for spreading herbs like mint, or consider containing them in separate pots to prevent them from taking over the garden.

Here is the mint I recommend growing:

Timing and Succession Planting

Start with Hardy Herbs:

If you’re new to herb gardening, start with hardy, easy-to-grow herbs like rosemary, thyme, and chives.

These are more forgiving and can give you a sense of success early on.

Succession Planting:

For a continual supply, practice succession planting.

This involves planting new herbs at intervals so that as one batch begins to wane, another is coming into its prime. This is particularly useful for fast-growing, short-lived herbs like cilantro and dill.

Incorporating Aesthetics and Functionality

Visual Appeal:

While functionality is key, don’t forget about the aesthetic aspect.

Arrange herbs not only by their needs but also by their appearance. Mixing various textures, colors, and heights can make your raised bed not only a source of flavors for your kitchen but also a focal point of beauty in your garden.

Building or Buying Your Raised Bed

Considerations for Choosing Your Raised Bed

Materials Matter:

When building or buying a raised bed, the material is a crucial factor.

Popular options include untreated wood (like cedar or redwood), metal, and even durable plastics or composite materials.

Each material has its pros and cons in terms of durability, cost, and environmental impact. For instance, untreated wood is natural and looks great but may not last as long as metal or composite materials.

Size and Shape: Standard beds are usually 3-4 feet wide (to allow easy access to the center from either side) and can be as long as you like. However, for a herb garden, a smaller bed might be sufficient.

My Recommended Raised Garden Beds for Herbs:

Preparing Your Raised Bed

Location and Assembly:

Once you’ve built or bought your raised bed, place it in the chosen location before filling it.

Ensure it's level and stable. If you’re concerned about pests like gophers, place a wire mesh at the bottom before adding soil.

Check out my guide What to Put on the Bottom of a Raised Garden Bed.

Soil and Compost:

Fill your raised bed with a mix of high-quality topsoil, compost, and if necessary, perlite or vermiculite for additional drainage.

The quality of your soil is crucial for the success of your herb garden, so don't skimp on this step.

Here is the compost I recommend for raised beds:

Accessibility and Ergonomics

Height Considerations:

If bending or kneeling is a concern, consider a taller raised bed or even a raised bed on legs. These can be particularly helpful for those with mobility issues or for older gardeners.

Whether you choose to build or buy your raised bed, ensure it meets your specific needs in terms of size, material, and design.

A well-planned raised bed can significantly enhance your herb gardening experience, making it more enjoyable and less labor-intensive.

Soil and Planting

Choosing the Right Soil Mix

Essential Soil Qualities:

Herbs generally prefer well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter.

The ideal soil mix for a raised bed herb garden should be light and airy to allow roots to breathe and grow freely while retaining enough moisture to keep the herbs hydrated.

Creating the Perfect Mix:

A good starting point is to mix equal parts of high-quality potting soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite.

This combination ensures good drainage, aeration, and a steady supply of nutrients. If you can get your hands on composted manure, it's a great addition for extra nutrients.

Here is the potting soil and perlite I recommend:

Balancing pH Levels

Importance of pH:

Most herbs prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically between 6.0 and 7.0.

You can easily test your soil's pH with a home testing kit. If your soil is too acidic, adding lime can help balance it out. If it's too alkaline, incorporating sulfur can lower the pH.

Here is the soil pH meter I recommend:

Planting Your Herbs

Timing:

The best time to plant your herbs is after the danger of frost has passed in the spring.

For perennial herbs, you can also plant in early fall, giving them time to establish roots before winter.

Spacing:

Proper spacing is crucial for the health and growth of your herbs. Overcrowding can lead to competition for light, water, and nutrients.

Generally, small herbs like thyme and oregano should be spaced about 8 to 10 inches apart, while larger herbs like rosemary and sage need about 18 to 24 inches. Always refer to the specific requirements of each herb, as some, like mint, can be quite invasive.

Planting Depth:

Plant each herb at the same depth it was in its nursery pot. This helps prevent the stem from rotting or the roots from being exposed.

Watering and Mulching

Watering Techniques:

Water your herbs when the top inch of soil feels dry. It's better to water deeply and less frequently than to water a little bit every day.

This encourages deeper root growth and helps the plants become more drought-tolerant.

For more watering tips, check out my guide How to Use Watering Globes. Watering your herbs is a great way to use rain water that has been collected in a water butt.

Mulching:

Apply a layer of organic mulch like straw or wood chips around the herbs.

This helps retain moisture, keeps the soil cool, and reduces the growth of weeds. Check out my guide The Best Alternatives to Traditional Mulch for Your Garden.

Fertilization

Light Feeding:

Herbs don't usually require a lot of fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can lead to lush foliage but less intense flavor.

If you feel your herbs need a boost, use a half-strength liquid organic fertilizer once in the growing season.

Here is the one I recommend:

Consider Companion Planting

Benefits:

Companion planting can improve the health and flavor of your herbs.

For example, planting basil near tomatoes can enhance the flavor of both plants. Similarly, planting chives or garlic near roses can help deter pests.

Check out my guides on companion planting with herbs: Lavender Companion Plants: Enhancing Your Herb Garden and Mint to Be Together: Choosing Companion Plants for Mint.

Planting from Seeds or Seedlings

Starting from Seeds:

Many herbs like basil, cilantro, and dill can be easily grown from seeds. Sow the seeds directly into the raised bed according to the packet instructions. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination.

For more watering tips, check out my guide How Often to Water Seedlings.

Using Seedlings:

For beginners or for herbs that take longer to grow, like rosemary and thyme, it's often easier to start with seedlings. This also gives you a head start on the growing season.

By paying attention to these soil and planting details, you'll create a thriving raised bed herb garden that will provide fresh, flavorful herbs for your kitchen. Remember, the foundation of a successful garden lies in the quality of its soil and the care you put into planting and nurturing your herbs.

Equip your urban green space with my recommend top tier tools.

Gardening Tips and Maintenance

Pruning and Harvesting

Encouraging Growth:

Regular pruning not only keeps your herbs looking tidy but also encourages new growth.

For leafy herbs like basil and mint, pinch off the tips to promote bushier growth. Always prune with clean, sharp scissors or pruners.

Check out my guide How to Prune Dill.

Harvesting Techniques:

Harvest herbs in the morning, when their essential oils are most concentrated.

Don't remove more than one-third of the plant at a time. This ensures the plant has enough foliage to continue growing healthily.

Managing Pests and Diseases

Natural Pest Control:

Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and spider mites. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs, or use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Avoid chemical pesticides, as they can affect the flavor and safety of your herbs.

Here is the insecticidal soap I recommend:

Disease Prevention:

Good air circulation is crucial for preventing fungal diseases. Space your plants properly and prune regularly to ensure air can move freely around each plant.

Winter Care for Perennials

Protecting Through Winter:

In colder climates, some perennial herbs like rosemary may need protection in the winter. Mulching around the base of the plants or covering them with a frost blanket can help them survive the cold.

Here is the frost blanket I recommend:

Refreshing the Soil Annually

Soil Maintenance:

Over time, soil in raised beds can become compacted and depleted of nutrients.

Each spring, refresh your herb bed by gently turning the soil and adding fresh compost. This rejuvenates the soil, ensuring your herbs have the nutrients they need to grow.

Check out my guide Does Potting Soil Go Bad? Know the Warning Signs.

Keeping Records

Gardening Journal:

Keep a gardening journal to record what you plant, when you plant, and how your herbs grow throughout the season. This can be a valuable tool for learning and improving your gardening skills over time.

By following these gardening tips and maintenance practices, you'll be well on your way to nurturing a healthy, productive, and beautiful herb garden.

FAQs

Can I start a raised bed herb garden on a balcony?

Yes, you can definitely start a raised bed herb garden on a balcony.

The key is to ensure that your balcony receives adequate sunlight – herbs generally need about six hours of direct sunlight daily.

Choose a raised bed or container that fits your balcony space comfortably and ensure it has proper drainage. Additionally, consider the weight of your raised bed, especially when filled with soil and water, to ensure your balcony can safely support it.

How deep should my raised bed be for herbs?

A depth of 12-18 inches is ideal for most herbs.

This depth provides enough space for the roots of most herbs to grow freely and access the nutrients and water they need.

However, some herbs with shallower root systems, like cilantro and basil, can thrive in slightly less depth, while deep-rooted herbs like rosemary and sage may benefit from a bit more depth if possible.

What are the best herbs to grow together in a raised bed?

When grouping herbs together, it's important to consider their water and sunlight needs.

Herbs that thrive together often have similar requirements. For example, Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano prefer less water and more sunlight and can be planted together.

Similarly, moisture-loving herbs like mint, parsley, and cilantro can be grouped. Be cautious with invasive herbs like mint, which might need to be planted in separate containers to prevent them from taking over the bed.

How do I protect my herb garden from pests?

To protect your herb garden from pests, start with healthy soil and plants, as they are less likely to attract pests.

Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that feed on common pests.

Use natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat infestations. Encourage birds in your garden, as they can also help control pests. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests or disease and take action early to prevent spread.

Is it better to start herbs from seeds or seedlings?

Whether to start from seeds or seedlings depends on your experience level and the specific herb.

Seeds are more cost-effective and offer a wider variety of choices, but they require more time and care to germinate and grow.

Seedlings are easier for beginners and provide a head start on the growing season. Some herbs, like basil and cilantro, are easy to grow from seeds, while others, such as rosemary and mint, are often easier to start from seedlings or cuttings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, raised garden beds offer a versatile and rewarding way to dive into the world of growing herbs and flowers.

Whether you've planted aromatic lemon balm, robust oregano, or fragrant sage, the joy of nurturing your own herb gardens is unmatched. These elevated spaces not only make gardening more accessible but also turn it into an art form, blending the lush greenery of herbs with the vibrant hues of flowers.

As you watch your raised garden flourish, you'll appreciate the fresh, home-grown flavors that herbs like oregano and sage add to your meals. Remember, each raised bed is a canvas for your creativity and a step towards a greener, more sustainable lifestyle.

Want to learn more about sustainable gardening? Check out my guides:

• Edible Beauty: The 10 Best Flowering Herbs

• A Simple Recipe for Rich Compost Tea

• Garden Gold: Composting Orange Peels

• How to Start Composting in a Tumbler