March marks the perfect time to start your herb garden, whether you’re growing indoors or preparing an outdoor space. With longer days and milder temperatures, this month offers ideal conditions to plant aromatic and flavorful herbs like basil, dill, and chives. Whether you have a small windowsill or a full backyard garden, growing herbs is a rewarding way to add freshness to your meals while embracing sustainable gardening.

Why Start Your Herb Garden in March?

March is a transition month, meaning you can take advantage of both indoor and outdoor planting opportunities. In colder climates, starting herbs indoors allows you to get a head start before transplanting them outside once the weather warms. In warmer regions, you can plant many herbs directly in garden beds or containers.

Best Herbs to Plant in March

1. Basil – A Fragrant Favorite

• Best for: Indoors and outdoors in warm climates
• Growing Tips: Basil thrives in well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Start it indoors in small pots, and once the risk of frost is gone, transplant it outdoors for a bountiful summer harvest. Keep the soil moist and pinch off flowers to encourage leaf growth.

2. Dill – The Versatile Culinary Herb

• Best for: Direct outdoor sowing in mild temperatures
• Growing Tips: Dill prefers full sun and grows best when sown directly into garden soil or deep containers. It doesn’t transplant well, so choose a permanent spot. Its feathery leaves add flavor to dishes, and its yellow flowers attract beneficial pollinators.

3. Chives – A Hardy and Low-Maintenance Choice

• Best for: Indoors and outdoors in various climates
• Growing Tips: Chives are resilient and can tolerate cooler temperatures, making them perfect for March planting. They grow well in pots or garden beds and require minimal care. Regularly snipping the leaves encourages new growth.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Herb Gardening

Indoor Herb Gardening:

• Use small containers with drainage holes.
• Place pots near a sunny window (south-facing is best).
• Water when the soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering.
• Rotate plants occasionally to ensure even growth.

Outdoor Herb Gardening:

• Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
• Plant herbs in raised beds or containers if soil quality is poor.
• Keep an eye on weather changes—cover young plants if frost is still a risk.
• Mulch around herbs to retain moisture and prevent weeds.

Final Tips for a Thriving Herb Garden

• Start small with a few easy-to-grow herbs before expanding.
• Label your plants to keep track of different varieties.
• Harvest herbs regularly to promote continued growth.
• Enjoy fresh, homegrown flavors in your cooking all season long!

By starting your herb garden in March, you set yourself up for months of fresh, homegrown herbs to enhance your meals and bring nature into your home. Whether you grow them in pots, garden beds, or even a kitchen windowsill, these easy-to-grow herbs will provide fresh flavors and vibrant greenery all season long.