Growing your own herbs is one of the most rewarding things you can do, even if you only have a windowsill or a tiny balcony. If you’re wondering what size pot for herbs is perfect for small spaces, you’ve come to the right place. The good news is that most herbs thrive in containers, and choosing the right pot is simpler than you might think. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from pot dimensions to material choices, ensuring your mini garden flourishes.
Getting the pot size right is the single most important factor for healthy herbs. A pot that’s too small chokes the roots and dries out in hours, while one that’s too large holds soggy soil that can cause rot. For small spaces, our goal is to find the sweet spot: a container that gives the herb room to grow without wasting precious square footage.
What Size Pot For Herbs
There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as different herbs have different root systems. However, we can break it down into simple categories. A general rule is that the pot should be at least 6-8 inches deep for most common culinary herbs. This depth allows for adequate root development and soil volume to retain moisture.
Let’s look at the specific needs for popular herbs:
For Individual Herb Plants:
* Basil, Cilantro, Parsley, Dill: These are medium-rooted herbs. They do best in pots that are at least 8-12 inches in diameter and depth. This gives them space to bush out and produce plenty of leaves.
* Thyme, Oregano, Marjoram, Savory: These are woody, spreading herbs. They can start in a 6-8 inch pot but will eventually appreciate a wider container, around 10-12 inches across, as they mature.
* Chives, Mint, Lemon Balm: These are vigorous growers with spreading roots. Especially for mint, which is invasive, a deep pot (12+ inches) is crucial to contain it. A solo pot for mint is always a good idea.
* Rosemary, Sage, Lavender: These are woody, shrub-like herbs that develop deep root systems. For long-term growth, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and depth. They can stay in smaller pots for a season but will become root-bound.
* Small Leaf Varieties (like creeping thyme, some oreganos): Perfect for very small spaces, these can grow in shallow pots or even wall planters as small as 4-6 inches deep.
For Herb Combinations (Companion Planting in One Pot):
Combining herbs in a single container saves space and creates a beautiful, lush display. The key is to pair herbs with similar needs for water and sun.
* Pot Size: Use a wide, shallow bowl-style pot or a long rectangular window box. Aim for a container that is at least 12-18 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep.
* Good Combinations:
* Mediterranean Mix: Rosemary, thyme, and oregano. They all love full sun and drier soil.
* Salad Bar Mix: Basil, parsley, and chives. They enjoy consistent moisture.
* Mint Family Box: Spearmint and peppermint together (but still keep them isolated from other herbs!).
Understanding Pot Dimensions and Drainage
When we talk about pot size, we’re refering to two things: volume (how much soil it holds) and root space. Always check both the diameter (width) and the depth. A pot that is wide but shallow is great for succulents, but not for a deep-rooted rosemary.
The non-negotiable feature for any herb pot is excellent drainage. Herbs despise wet feet. Every pot you use must have at least one hole in the bottom. If you fall in love with a container that doesn’t have a hole, you can use it as a decorative cache pot—place a plain plastic pot with drainage inside it.
How to Ensure Proper Drainage:
1. Select a pot with one or more holes in its base.
2. Add a layer of coarse material like small pebbles, broken pottery shards, or a handful of perlite over the hole. This prevents soil from washing out and blocking the drain.
3. Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. Never use garden soil, as it compacts in containers.
Choosing the Right Pot Material for Small Spaces
The material of your pot affects watering frequency, weight, and aesthetics. Here’s a quick breakdown:
* Terracotta/Clay: Classic and porous. They allow air and water to pass through the walls, which helps prevent overwatering but means you’ll need to water more often. They are heavy and can dry out roots quickly in hot sun.
* Glazed Ceramic: Less porous than terracotta, so they retain moisture longer. They come in many colors and styles but are also heavy and often more expensive.
* Plastic/Resin: Lightweight, inexpensive, and retain moisture very well. This is a great choice for balconies where weight is a concern or for herbs that like more consistent moisture. Look for UV-resistant types so they don’t fade or become brittle.
* Fabric Grow Bags: An excellent option. They provide superb air circulation (which “air-prunes” roots, preventing circling), are lightweight, and fold for storage. They do dry out faster than plastic.
* Self-Watering Pots: Fantastic for small-space gardeners who travel or tend to forget watering. They have a reservoir that supplies water to the roots from below.
For most small-space gardeners, a mix of materials works well. Use plastic for moisture-loving herbs and terracotta for Mediterranean herbs that prefer drier conditions.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Potting Your Herbs
Follow these steps to give your herbs the best start:
1. Gather Your Supplies: Your chosen pot, potting mix, a small trowel or scoop, and your herb plant or seeds.
2. Prepare the Pot: Cover the drainage hole with your chosen material (pebble, shard). Fill the pot about one-third full with pre-moistened potting mix.
3. Prepare the Plant: Gently remove the herb from its nursery pot. If the roots are tightly wound (root-bound), gently tease them apart with your fingers to encourage them to grow outward.
4. Position the Plant: Place the herb in the new pot. The top of the root ball should sit about an inch below the rim of the pot to leave room for watering.
5. Fill and Firm: Add more potting mix around the sides, gently firming it down to remove large air pockets. Don’t pack it too tightly.
6. Water Thoroughly: Give your newly potted herb a deep, slow watering until water runs freely out the drainage hole. This settles the soil around the roots.
7. Find the Right Spot: Place your pot in a location that matches the herb’s light needs (most need 6+ hours of sun).
Essential Care Tips for Herbs in Pots
Potted herbs need a bit more attention than those in the ground. Here’s how to keep them happy:
Watering: This is the most common area for error. The goal is consistent moisture, not constant sogginess.
* Check the soil daily by sticking your finger an inch deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
* Water slowly and deeply until it runs out the bottom. This encourages deep roots.
* Water in the morning is best, so leaves dry before evening.
Feeding: Potting mix nutrients get used up quickly.
* Use a balanced, water-soluble organic fertilizer (like a 5-5-5 formula) every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
* Less is often more. Over-fertilizing leads to lots of weak growth with less flavor.
Pruning and Harvesting: Regular harvesting is pruning.
* Always harvest from the top, just above a set of leaves. This encourages bushier growth.
* Never remove more than one-third of the plant at one time.
* Pinch off flower buds on leafy herbs like basil to keep the plant producing tasty leaves.
Winter Considerations: In small spaces, you can often bring pots indoors.
* Before frost, bring tender herbs like basil and rosemary inside to a sunny window.
* Hardy herbs like thyme, sage, and oregano can often stay outside in their pots if they are a bit sheltered, but their roots are more exposed to cold. Wrapping the pot in bubble wrap can provide extra insulation.
Common Problems and Simple Solutions
* Yellowing Leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering. Let the soil dry out more between waterings.
* Leggy, Sparse Growth: The plant isn’t getting enough sunlight. Move it to a brighter location and give it a trim.
* Wilting: Could be under-watering (dry soil) or overwatering (soggy soil). Check the soil moisture to diagnose.
* Small Pots Drying Out Too Fast: Group pots together to create a more humid microclimate, or place a small pot inside a slightly larger one with some mulch in between to insulate it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best pot size for growing herbs indoors?
The same size rules apply indoors. Ensure the pot has drainage and is placed on a saucer. South or west-facing windows are ideal for most herbs.
Can I use very small pots for herbs?
You can for a short while, like starting seeds or for very compact herbs. But for sustained growth, most herbs quickly outgrow tiny pots under 4 inches.
How deep should a pot be for rosemary?
Rosemary needs depth. For a plant you want to keep for years, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep, if not more.
Is it better to plant herbs in individual pots or together?
For beginners, individual pots are easier as you can cater water and sun to each plant’s needs. Grouping is great for saving space and creating displays, but requires pairing compatible herbs.
What size container for herbs like mint?
Use a deep, wide pot just for mint—at least 12 inches deep and wide. This helps manage its aggressive spreading roots.
Starting your herb garden in small spaces is all about making smart choices from the beginning. By selecting the right what size pot for herbs for each plant’s needs, ensuring good drainage, and providing basic care, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh, flavorful herbs right at your fingertips. There’s nothing quite like snipping your own basil for a pasta sauce or thyme for a roast. With these tips, your compact garden will be both productive and beautiful.