How to Grow Herbs in Patio Pots and Containers: Beautiful, Useful, and Easy!

When it comes to summer container gardening, flowers often steal the show — but herbs deserve a starring role too. Whether you’re working with a small balcony or a full outdoor space, herbs are a practical, beautiful, and rewarding addition to any patio or container garden.

Here’s why you’ll want to mix them in — and how to do it well.

Top 5 Reasons to Add Herbs to Planters

1. They’re multi-purpose beauties. Herbs bring more than just flavor to your meals — they offer gorgeous textures, soft movement, and lovely scents to your container arrangements. Think of trailing thyme cascading over the edge of a pot, a lush clump of parsley adding a fresh green contrast, or lavender waving gently in the breeze.

2. They’re surprisingly ornamental. Many herbs are naturally attractive. Basil adds height and rich green leaves; rosemary offers structure and a piney aroma; sage has soft, silvery foliage that pairs beautifully with flowers and ornamental grasses. Bonus: several herbs, like chives and mint, produce charming flowers that attract pollinators.

3. They’re fun for the senses and sustainable. Planting herbs close to your kitchen means easy access — just snip and sprinkle! It’s a sustainable (and delicious) way to reduce food waste, cut down on store-bought plastic packaging, and connect more deeply with your food.

4. They support pollinators and beneficial insects. When allowed to flower, herbs like oregano, dill, sage, and thyme become powerful pollinator magnets. Including them in your planters supports local bees and butterflies while still looking beautiful.

5. They help repel unwanted pests! Certain herbs — like basil, mint,lavender and rosemary — naturally deter pests like mosquitoes, aphids, and whiteflies. Tucking them into your patio planters not only benefits your other plants but helps make outdoor lounging more pleasant.

How to Plant Herbs in Patio and Container Gardens

Adding herbs to your planters doesn’t have to be complicated — in fact, it’s one of the simplest ways to boost both beauty and function. Here are a few of my favorite tips to help you get started.

• Pair herbs with flowers and foliage that have similar growing needs. Most herbs like full sun and well-drained soil — perfect companions for sun-loving annuals like petunias, calibrachoa, dahlias, and many more.

• Consider your kitchen habits and grow what you’ll actually use! Love summer cocktails? Add mint. Grill often? Go for rosemary or thyme. Make lots of salads? Parsley and basil are your friends. The combinations and personalization are endless.

• Choose the right container, herbs can be planted directly into mixed planters, or tucked into their own pots nearby to swap in and out as needed. Just ensure good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix. For thirsty herbs like basil or cilantro, keep them closer to a water source or blend them with moisture-loving flowers. Be aware that herbs such as Lemon Balm and Mint will take over most spaces!

• Harvest regularly; regular trimming helps herbs stay full and productive. Snip from the top to encourage bushier growth — and don’t be afraid to use them daily!

Final Thoughts

Including herbs in your patio planters is an easy way to blend beauty with function. Whether you're adding flavour to your meals, supporting local pollinators, or just enjoying the sensory joy of brushing past fragrant basil on your way out the door, herbs bring everyday magic to outdoor living.

Need help choosing the right herbs or want to see some combos in action? Come visit us at Old Farm Garden Centre — we’d love to help you build your perfect summer planter.