- Basil
Basil is an absolute must-have for any herb garden, particularly those on balconies. It’s compact, smells delectable, and will grow in almost any size container so long as it has full sun and adequate drainage. Not to mention, it’s incredibly beneficial in Italian and Thai cuisine, offering a subtle yet distinct flavor that can’t be obtained from dried varieties. One tip for cultivating this aromatic herb is to prune it regularly to maintain a bushy growth habit and to prevent it from going into seed, which can trace back to its flavor.
- Mint
If you’re in search of an herb that’s hardy, versatile, and easy to grow, mint is your best ally. While there are several varieties, spearmint and peppermint are among the most popular and simple to cultivate. The invigorating scent and flavor of mint can be put to use in cocktails, iced teas, sauces, and much more. However, keep in mind that mint is known to spread fast, so it’s best to plant it in a separate container to keep it from taking over your other herbs.
- Chives
Offering a mild onion flavor without the bitter aftertaste, chives are perfect for anyone cooking with fresh herbs. They’re considered a resilient plant, thriving in a variety of climates and growing conditions, and they can be easily contained in a small pot. Plus, their elegant purple flowers will bring a splash of color to your balcony. The best way to harvest chives is by cutting the stems down to the base and they’ll keep regrowing throughout the season.
- Rosemary
Next on the list is rosemary, a classic herb that you can cultivate on your balcony. Rosemary is a hardy perennial herb known for its fragrant needle-like leaves. It loves sunlight and does not require a lot of water, so you don’t have to worry about under watering it. A top tip for growing rosemary is to let the soil get dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Its unique flavor and aroma are invaluable in various dishes, particularly roasted meats and Mediterranean recipes.
- Thyme
Thyme is a small, hardy evergreen herb that’s easy to grow in containers, making it perfect for balcony cultivation. Its small, aromatic leaves are a staple in many savory dishes, and it’s also thought to have antiseptic and antifungal properties. Thyme requires well-drained soil, so avoid overwatering. The most effective harvesting method for thyme is to pinch off the top inch of the plant, which will aid in encouraging bushier growth.
- Cilantro
Also known as coriander, cilantro is a quick-to-grow herb that operates as both a flavorful leaf and a deliciously aromatic seed spice. Known for its unique, bold flavor, it’s widely used in Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisine. It prefers cool temperatures, so it’s best to plant it in the spring or fall to prevent it from bolting.
- Parsley
Parsley is both a beautiful and edible addition to your balcony garden that is rich in nutrients and loaded with a vibrant, fresh flavor. It prefers cool environments and requires regular watering, so keep its soil consistently moist to ensure its growth. Parsley is especially popular in Middle Eastern cuisine, where it’s oftentimes the star of the show in dishes like tabbouleh.
- Dill
Dill is another cool-season herb that would perform very well on a balcony as it loves direct sunlight. Its feathery leaves add a great flavor to fish, potato salads, and dill pickles. Remember that dill does not like to be transplanted, so it’s best to sow your dill seeds directly into a pot or container on your balcony.
- Oregano
No list of the top herbs to grow on your balcony could be complete without mentioning oregano. This easy-to-grow perennial enjoys full sun and is quite drought-tolerant once established. Its intense, slightly bitter flavor makes it a staple in Italian and Greek dishes.
- Sage
Sage is a fantastic choice for a balcony herb garden. Its fragrant, grey-green leaves are singular in flavor, offering a uniquely warm, peppery taste. Sage is drought-tolerant, prefers full sun, and a well-draining soil. Remember to keep sage stems trimmed to avoid it from becoming too leggy.
Incorporating these herbs in your balcony garden not only provides a steady supply of fresh herbs for your cooking needs, but it also adds a touch of color and fragrance to your outdoor space. Start small, and soon enough you’ll find yourself with a full-fledged herb garden that’s the envy of the neighborhood.
