How to Start Herbs From Seed

Overview

Herbs make a great addition to any garden. Fresh herbs can add fragrance to your yard as well as flavor dishes you make in the kitchen. When dried, your herbs can be used for months in meals, teas and sachets in drawers and closets. Whether you plan to grow annual or perennial herbs, start them from seed in your home six to eight months before the last spring frost for your area, and have them ready for transplanting outdoors when warm weather arrives.

Step 1

Place the base of your seed tray in a sunny window where it can rest flat without being disturbed for a few months. A south-facing window is best, but if that isn't available you may want to set up a grow light just above your seed tray for best results.

Step 2

Place the seedling pots into the base of the tray and be sure they are resting flatly on the bottom. Add enough soil to each pot to fill it up to the top edge of the rim.

Step 3

Check on the seed packets to see how deep your seeds need to be planted, which can vary depending on the type of herb you're growing. Set a few of the same type of seeds into the center of each pot according to the depth on the packet.

Step 4

Write the name of the herb you are planting on a plant marker as you plant the seeds. Stick the labeled plant marker down into the soil of your pot to clearly tell you what each pot should have in it.

Step 5

Add an inch of water to the seed tray and wait while the soil in the pots draws the water up. If all of the water is absorbed and the top layer of soil in the pots doesn't look moist, add more water in 1-inch increments until all the pots appear wet and the water is all gone.

Step 6

Close the seed tray by setting the clear plastic lid over the tray. Leave the tray alone, adding water only when needed, until the seedlings have reached the lid. Once the seedlings have reached the lid, remove it and set it aside.

Step 7

Keep adding water when needed to the seed tray to maintain a moist soil in all of the pots. Once the threat of frost has passed you should be able to plant your herbs outdoors or transfer them to a more permanent container.