Getting your timing right is the first step to a thriving herb garden in Georgia. Knowing when to plant herbs in Georgia makes all the difference between a bountiful harvest and a disappointing one. Our state’s unique climate, with its hot summers and generally mild winters, offers a long growing season. But it also requires a smart planting schedule.
This guide breaks down the optimal planting times for your favorite herbs. We’ll cover both cool-season and warm-season varieties. You’ll learn how to use Georgia’s planting zones to your advantage. Let’s get your garden planned.
When to Plant Herbs in Georgia – Optimal Planting Times for
Georgia spans USDA Hardiness Zones 6b through 9a. This means north Georgia experiences colder winters than the coastal plains. Your specific location will fine-tune your calendar. Most herbs fall into two categories: cool-season and warm-season. Planting them at the correct time is crucial for strong growth.
Cool-Season Herbs: Plant for Spring and Fall
Cool-season herbs prefer milder temperatures. They can bolt (flower and go to seed) quickly in the summer heat. In Georgia, you have two main planting windows for these: early spring and early fall.
- Parsley: Plant seeds or transplants 2-4 weeks before the last spring frost. For a fall crop, plant in late August or early September.
- Cilantro: Sow seeds directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in spring. For a continuous harvest, plant successive batches every 2-3 weeks until late spring. Start again in early fall.
- Dill: Direct sow after the last frost date. It has a taproot and doesn’t transplant well. Plant again in early fall.
- Chives: Plant divisions or starts in early spring. They are perennial and will come back year after year.
- Mint: Plant in spring after the last frost. It’s a vigorous perennial; consider confining it to a pot.
The ideal soil temperature for these herbs is between 55°F and 70°F. You can get a head start by starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost.
Warm-Season Herbs: Wait for the Heat
These herbs originate from Mediterranean climates. They love full sun and well-drained soil. They will not tolerate frost and grow poorly in cool, wet soil.
- Basil: This is a true summer herb. Plant seeds or transplants at least 2 weeks after the last frost, when nights are consistently above 50°F. Soil should be warm.
- Oregano: Plant transplants in mid to late spring. It’s a hardy perennial once established.
- Rosemary: Plant transplants in spring. Choose a protected, sunny spot with excellent drainage. It is a tender perennial that may need winter protection in north Georgia.
- Thyme: Plant in spring after the last frost. It’s another reliable perennial.
- Sage: Plant in spring. It is perennial and drought-tolerant once its established.
- Lavender: Plant in spring to ensure it establishes before winter. Drainage is critical for its survival.
Never plant warm-season herbs while there’s still a chance of a late frost. Patience pays off with stronger, healthier plants.
Your Georgia Herb Planting Calendar
This calendar provides a general framework. Adjust dates based on whether you’re in north, central, or south Georgia.
Early Spring (Late February – April)
- Start seeds indoors for warm-season herbs like basil and oregano.
- Direct sow cool-season herb seeds (cilantro, dill, parsley) as soil becomes workable.
- Plant perennial herb transplants (chives, mint, thyme) as soon as the ground thaws.
Late Spring (May – Early June)
- After all danger of frost has passed, transplant warm-season herbs outdoors.
- Direct sow basil seeds if you prefer.
- Harvest cool-season herbs regularly to delay bolting.
Summer (June – August)
- Focus on harvesting and maintaining warm-season herbs.
- Pinch back basil regularly to encourage bushiness and prevent flowering.
- Water deeply during dry spells, but allow soil to dry between waterings for Mediterranean herbs.
Early Fall (September – October)
- This is a second prime planting time. Sow seeds for cool-season herbs like cilantro, dill, and parsley.
- Transplant starter plants of parsley and cilantro for a faster harvest.
- You can take cuttings from tender perennials like rosemary to overwinter indoors.
Late Fall/Winter (November – February)
- Mulch perennial herbs like oregano, thyme, and sage to protect their roots.
- In colder zones, consider covering rosemary with frost cloth.
- Plan next year’s garden and order seeds.
Step-by-Step: Planting Your Herbs Successfully
- Choose the Right Spot: Most herbs need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Good drainage is non-negotiable.
- Prepare the Soil: Georgia clay soil needs amending. Work in 3-4 inches of compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can dilute flavor.
- Plant at the Correct Depth: For seeds, follow packet instructions. For transplants, plant at the same depth they were in their pot. Exceptions like tomatoes do not apply here.
- Water Wisely: Water thoroughly after planting. Then, let the soil guide you. Water when the top inch feels dry. Overwatering is a common mistake.
- Mulch: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch (like straw or pine bark) to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from plant stems to prevent rot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Planting Too Early: Tender herbs hit by a late frost will struggle or die. Wait for reliably warm soil.
- Overcrowding: Give plants room for air circulation. This prevents fungal diseases, which can be a problem in Georgia’s humidity.
- Overwatering: Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano prefer drier conditions. Soggy soil leads to root rot.
- Ignoring Perennials: Herbs like oregano, thyme, and sage come back yearly. Plant them in a permanent spot where they won’t be disturbed.
FAQ: Georgia Herb Gardening
What herbs can I grow year-round in Georgia?
Many perennial herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, and mint can grow year-round, especially in central and south Georgia. In north Georgia, provide winter protection for rosemary. You can also grow herbs like parsley and cilantro in a sunny windowsill during winter.
When is the best time to plant basil in Georgia?
The best time to plant basil is in late spring, typically from early May onward. Ensure nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F. Planting to early in cool soil will stunt its growth.
Can I plant herbs in July in Georgia?
July is generally to hot for starting most herbs from seed. However, you can plant well-established transplants of warm-season herbs if you water them diligently. It’s better to focus on harvesting and wait for the fall planting window.
How do I protect my herbs from Georgia’s summer heat?
Provide afternoon shade for some herbs if possible. Mulch heavily to keep roots cool and conserve moisture. Water deeply in the morning so plants are hydrated before the peak heat. Container herbs may need watering twice a day in peak summer.
What are the easiest herbs to grow for beginners in Georgia?
Start with basil, mint, oregano, chives, and thyme. These are relatively forgiving, adapt well to Georgia’s climate, and provide a quick return for your effort. They are also less fussy about soil conditions than some others.
By aligning your gardening tasks with Georgia’s seasons, you set yourself up for success. Remember the simple rule: cool-season herbs in spring and fall, warm-season herbs after the frost. Pay attention to your local weather patterns and your soil’s condition. With this schedule, you’ll enjoy fresh flavors from your garden for most of the year. There’s nothing quite like adding homegrown herbs to your favorite dishes.