Top Ten Herbs to Plant This Spring

April is the perfect time to plant fresh herbs. Image by Kaboompics.com.

If you haven't already started planting this season, April is the perfect month to kick off your herb garden. The first official full month of Spring brings longer days, warming temperatures, and the last frost dates finally behind us (in most regions). Whether you’re working with a full garden bed or just a sunny windowsill, these ten top herbs are perfect to plant in April and will bring fresh flavor to your kitchen all season long.

1. Basil

A true warm-weather favorite, basil is a must-have in any spring herb garden. We go through several plants every season. Start it indoors if you're still expecting chilly nights, or plant directly outdoors once the soil is warm. Genovese, lemon, and Thai basil are great varieties to experiment with. Just make sure it gets plenty of sun and regular watering. We also love purple basil varieties for a fun take on a summer heirloom Caprese salad.

2. Mint

Mint is nearly foolproof and grows like wildfire- so much so that it's best grown in containers to keep it from overtaking your garden. It loves partial sun and moist soil. From spearmint to peppermint to chocolate mint, this herb is ideal for teas, desserts, and summer cocktails.

3. Chives

Chives are among the earliest herbs to emerge in spring and can handle a light frost, making April a great time to plant. Their mild onion flavor is perfect for eggs, potatoes, and salads. Bonus: their purple blossoms are edible and attract pollinators. Beautiful in a salad with fresh lettuce!

4. Thyme

A hardy perennial, thyme thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Its woody stems and tiny leaves pack big flavor, and it’s a low-maintenance addition to both kitchen gardens and ornamental borders. It also pairs well with rosemary in both recipes and growing conditions.

5. Rosemary

This Mediterranean herb prefers full sun and sandy, well-drained soil. In warmer climates, it can grow into a shrub; in cooler zones, consider growing it in a pot you can bring inside over winter. Rosemary’s piney flavor is perfect for meats, breads, and infused oils. I also love to add a sprig to a dirty martini with blue cheese-stuffed olives.

6. Italian Parsley

Unlike its curly cousin, flat-leaf parsley (also known as Italian parsley) has a robust flavor and is favored by chefs. It thrives in spring’s cool temperatures and does well in both beds and containers. Trim from the outside of the plant and enjoy it all season long. It’s also a great source of vitamins A, C, and K.

7. Dill

Dill grows quickly and loves cooler spring weather. It's perfect for pickling, fresh fish dishes, and potato salads. Plant it in a sunny spot and harvest regularly to keep it from bolting too early. It also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and pollinators.

8. Tarragon

A bit finicky, tarragon can be tricky to grow from seed, so it’s best to start with a transplant if possible. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. With its subtle anise flavor, tarragon is perfect for French-inspired sauces and poultry dishes. Grow it if you’re up for a mild gardening challenge with flavorful rewards.

9. Cilantro

Cilantro can be a polarizing herb- people either love it or hate it. We absolutely love it in our family and use it in everything from salsas to soups. But here’s the twist: even if you're not a fan of the leafy green, let it bolt and you’ll be rewarded with coriander seeds. Plant it early in the season, as it prefers cooler temps and tends to bolt in heat.

10. Oregano

Rounding out the top ten, oregano is a resilient, sun-loving herb that thrives in April planting. Its pungent, earthy flavor is perfect for Mediterranean dishes and pizza sauces. Like thyme, it’s a perennial in many climates and a reliable performer year after year.

Most herbs love full sun and well-drained soil. Water consistently, harvest often, and pinch back flowers to encourage more leafy growth. Whether you’re growing in pots, raised beds, or right in the ground, these ten herbs will elevate your cooking- and your garden- through spring and beyond.