10 Best Herbs to Plant in Your Fall Garden

As summer fades into autumn, the chill in the air signals a seasonal shift. While this transition may mark the end for some plants, fall offers a fresh start and new planting possibilities. Herbs happen to be perfectly suited for planting in fall gardens and containers.

Many culinary herbs actually thrive in the cooler weather and moist soil of autumn Planting herbs in the fall gives them time to establish deep roots before going dormant for winter Then they return vigorously the following spring.

Below are 10 of the best hardy, aromatic herbs to plant in fall for bountiful harvests.

Why Fall is an Ideal Time to Plant Herbs

Here are some key reasons fall herb gardening makes sense

• Cooler temperatures prevent bolting that happens in hot summers Plants like cilantro will last much longer.

• Lower water needs reduce maintenance. Many herbs are drought-tolerant.

• Ample moisture supports good establishment before the dry winter months.

• Herbs planted in fall avoid diseases and pests common in spring and summer.

• Perennial herbs develop strong root systems through fall and winter that power growth in spring.

• Flavorful harvests are possible well into late fall and winter in some climates.

Best Herbs for Fall Planting

Here are 10 of the top culinary herbs for fall gardens:

1. Parsley

A cold-tolerant biennial, parsley flourishes in the cool conditions of fall and early winter in many regions. The flat-leaf and curly-leaf varieties both overwinter well with some protection. Parsley’s versatility and easy care make it a prime contender for fall herb gardens.

2. Cilantro

Cilantro bolts quickly in summer heat but grows happily in fall. Plant cilantro seeds or transplants in fall for abundant harvests of fresh leaves and seeds to use in a variety of dishes. The plants grow rapidly and will produce all season.

3. Dill

Ideal for cooler weather, dill is another annual herb that can be directly sown in fall. Expect it to self-seed for the following year. Use dill’s feathery foliage to flavor pickles, salads, fish, and more. Its flowers also attract beneficial pollinators.

4. Chervil

Delicate, fern-like chervil thrives in fall and winter. Sow seeds or plant seedlings in fall and grow this French herb under cloches or in a cold frame for harvests even in cold months. Chervil adds a light anise flavor to soups, eggs, vegetables, and herb butter.

5. Chives

Chives are a perennial herb that can be easily divided and replanted in fall. The grassy leaves add onion punctuation to dishes all season long. Chive’s purple blooms are also gorgeous. Plant chives in fall borders or containers.

6. Thyme

Fragrant thyme makes an excellent fall-planted perennial herb. Among winter’s hardiest herbs, thyme stays evergreen in some regions. Tuck thyme plants along walkways and in rock gardens. The leaves and stems have concentrated flavor for seasoning meats, vegetables, and more.

7. Sage

Sage is another aromatic, woody perennial that overwinters well in many areas. Plant sage transplants in fall near the edges of garden beds and harvest judiciously. Sage adds its distinctive flavor to stuffing, sausages, marinades, and other savory dishes.

8. Lavender

Famous for its calming fragrance, lavender is a Mediterranean herb that appreciates fall planting in most regions. Give this perennial excellent drainage and plant where its trailing flowers can be enjoyed. Harvest lavender for sachets, teas, and culinary uses.

9. Rosemary

Another southern European native, rosemary’s pine-like scent is perfect for fall dishes. An attractive shrub in warmer zones, rosemary can be overwintered indoors in colder climates. Clip rosemary to flavor lamb, chicken, soups, and more.

10. Oregano

Plant oregano transplants in fall for an early spring burst of growth. This herbaceous perennial is a staple of Greek and Italian cuisine, lending its robust flavor to pizzas, pastas, marinades, and dressings. Common and Greek oregano are best for kitchen use.

Fall Herb Garden Care Tips

Follow these tips for success with fall-planted herbs:

• Select a sunny, well-draining spot. Herbs need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.

• Prepare soil by mixing in 1-2 inches of compost or manure. Most herbs thrive in average garden soil.

• Plant fall herbs 4-6 weeks before your average first frost date. Check herb tags for specific timing.

• Space plants according to mature size, usually 10-18 inches apart depending on variety.

• Water transplants regularly the first month, then reduce to weekly watering depending on rainfall.

• Mulch newly planted herbs with 2-3 inches of shredded leaves or straw to protect from hard freezes.

• Harvest herbs often and fully. Consistent pruning encourages lush new growth.

Best Herbs for Fall Containers

If space is limited, focus on herbs well-suited to fall container growing:

• Parsley – Choose compact curly varieties perfect for pots.

• Thyme – Trailing types look lovely draping over container edges.

• Oregano – Plant the hardy Greek oregano for best cold tolerance in pots.

• Chives – Easy to grow, chives add color and flavor to containers.

• Sage – Dwarf varieties of garden sage grow well in patio pots.

• Lavender – Plant English lavender for great aroma and flowers in fall pots.

Use quality potting mix and allow for good drainage by adding pebbles to the bottom of containers beneath the soil layer. Keep pots near the house or garage for easier frost protection.

Expanding Your Fall Herb Garden

Once you’ve mastered the basics with these hardy herbs, try venturing into more tender varieties to grow in protected spaces:

• Pot up rosemary and bay laurel to overwinter indoors near sunny windows.

• Grow basils, lemon balm, or mints in a sunny cold frame or polytunnel.

• Plant dill, cilantro, and chervil in portable cold frames to move around the yard.

• Try overwintering French tarragon indoors under grow lights.

• Grow heat-loving cumin and Mexican oregano in a heated greenhouse or sunroom.

The possibilities are endless for finding the right herbs to spice up your fall garden. With the right selections and care, you can enjoy homegrown flavor all season long.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fall Herb Gardening

What is the best fertilizer for herbs in the fall?

Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers in fall that can spur tender new growth. Opt for low-nitrogen or balanced organic fertilizers. Well-aged compost and manure also provide sufficient nutrition without excess nitrogen.

Can you harvest herbs in winter?

Some hardy herbs like parsley, sage, thyme, and chives can be harvested fresh in winter in regions with milder climates. Elsewhere, plan to grow herbs in protected areas and dry abundant leaves in fall for winter use.

How do you prepare an herb garden for winter?

Trim back any dead or damaged growth on perennial herbs in fall. Mulch with 2-3 inches of straw or leaves after the ground freezes. Pot up and bring sensitive herbs like rosemary indoors before the first frost.

What herbs should be brought indoors for winter?

Tender perennial herbs like rosemary, bay, lemon verbena, scented geraniums, and semi-hardy lavenders are good candidates to pot up and overwinter inside. Position them near sunny, south-facing windows.

Can you plant herbs too late in fall?

In regions with very short growing seasons, it’s best to plant herbs by early September at the latest to allow at least 6 weeks of growth before freezing weather arrives. Adjust timing accordingly for your local conditions.

Whether you love cooking flavorful dishes or simply enjoy caring for attractive plants, fall is the perfect time to plant herbs. With the right selections and care, your fall herb garden will provide months of rewards.