Do herbs grow better in pots or ground?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Several factors must be weighed when deciding between container gardening and in-ground herb gardening - your herbs. Containers give you control of invasive herbs like mint, and planting in the ground allows companions to enjoy the same space. While I grow rosemary in containers and basil in a garden bed, your decision will involve factors such as drainage, space, and maintenance.
Gardening in containers tends to be advantageous in more specific situations. When using pots, it is possible to avoid the invasive roots of certain plants and create your own custom soil mix. They also work very well for Mediterranean herbs that have a prime drainage need. I grow rosemary in terracotta pots with a bit of sandy soil. The herbs are growing in perfect conditions, while keeping the invasive roots away.
Soil Preparation
- Mix 2:1 potting soil to perlite for drainage
- Add sand for Mediterranean herbs
- Include compost for moisture retention
Pot Selection
- Terracotta for drought-tolerant herbs
- Plastic for moisture-lovers
- Minimum 12" depth for taproots
Placement Strategies
- Group pots by water needs
- Rotate pots for even sun exposure
- Elevate for better air circulation
Planting in the soil benefits your companion plants the most. For example, herbs such as chives and parsley form a natural partnership in their roots. Setting basil in the earth allows for consistent soil moisture, as it receives no rainwater in a container. The herb beds are where I plant moisture-loving herbs together. The roots of the plant's partner build a stronger ecosystem in the kitchen garden beds.
Soil amendment will give you a successful ground planting experience. If you are working with clay soil, all amendments should be incorporated into the planting hole to help with drainage. You can use sand to amend your Mediterranean herbs sections. I tend to make separate compartments in my garden beds. Each herb is assigned to the specific condition it addresses.
Think about growth habits before making a decision. For example, what are root depth, root spread, and water needs? Mint needs containment; parsley can grow in open ground. I would plant taproot herbs such as dill directly in the soil. Choices you make now are likely to prevent problems in the future.
Hybrid strategies allow for flexibility. Establish aggressive herbs using pots that are buried in your garden beds. Then use the technique of ground planting for compatible herb pairs in proximity. For example, my mint is growing in a sunk container, next to my in-ground basil. You receive all the benefits of both planting techniques.
Read the full article: 16 Herb Companion Planting Pairs Revealed
