The $20 Pot Garden for Herbs
Growing your own herbs doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or space-consuming. In fact, with just $20 and a little creativity, you can start a thriving herb garden right in your backyard, balcony, or even windowsill. The key lies in simplicity: a few well-chosen herbs, some recycled or budget-friendly containers, and a bit of care.
Why Grow Herbs at Home?
Fresh herbs elevate any dish with flavor and fragrance that dried herbs can’t match. They’re also incredibly easy to grow, making them perfect for beginners and busy people alike. Herbs like basil, parsley, mint, thyme, and oregano are hardy, require minimal maintenance, and can be harvested repeatedly throughout the season. Growing your own herbs also saves money over time—especially if you find yourself frequently buying fresh bunches from the grocery store, only to have them wilt after a few days in the fridge.
Budget Breakdown: How to Build Your Garden for $20
The key to staying on budget is to repurpose what you already have and shop smart. Here’s a suggested breakdown:
- Containers ($0–$5): Look around your home for unused containers. Old buckets, yogurt tubs, plastic bottles, or even coffee cans can be transformed into herb pots with drainage holes poked in the bottom. If you prefer something a bit more aesthetic, dollar stores often sell small pots for $1 or less.
- Potting Soil ($5–$7): A small bag of potting soil is all you need to get started. Make sure to choose one that drains well—herbs don’t like soggy roots.
- Seeds or Starter Plants ($5–$8): Seeds are more budget-friendly and can usually be found for $1–$2 per packet. Starter plants cost a bit more, but they give you a head start. Many garden centers offer small herb plants in spring and early summer for under $3 each.
- Labels & Tools ($0–$2): Popsicle sticks, old spoons, or even rocks can be used to label your herbs. Basic tools like a small trowel can be improvised from household items.
Choosing the Right Herbs
When planning your herb garden, consider what you use most in the kitchen. Some top picks for beginner-friendly, useful herbs include:
- Basil: Perfect for pasta, salads, and pesto. Needs lots of sun and regular watering.
- Mint: Great for teas, desserts, and cocktails. Grows aggressively, so keep it in its own pot.
- Parsley: A versatile garnish that grows well in partial sun.
- Thyme: Hardy and flavorful, excellent in roasted dishes and soups.
- Oregano: Classic in Italian and Mediterranean recipes, thrives in warm conditions.
Caring for Your Mini Garden
Place your herb containers where they’ll get at least 4–6 hours of sunlight per day. Water them regularly—when the top inch of soil feels dry—but don’t overdo it. Herbs prefer slightly dry conditions to overly soggy ones. Rotate your pots occasionally so each plant gets even sun exposure. You can begin harvesting when the plant has enough leaves to spare. Use scissors to snip leaves just above a pair of healthy leaves to encourage bushier growth.
The Joy of the $20 Garden
Beyond the budget savings, having a $20 herb garden is a satisfying way to connect with your food and the natural world—even in a small urban space. It’s low commitment, high reward, and perfect for apartment dwellers, busy families, or curious cooks. Whether you’re adding basil to your pasta or mint to your lemonade, those home-grown herbs will add a special freshness that money can’t buy.
