Best herb garden planters for indoor and outdoor use
More and more people are planting herbs at home, because they not only contribute to saving money, but also make people enjoy the natural, green, healthy flavor at any time.
Most store-bought herbs are intended to be used sparingly, often as a small dried garnish on the plate, whereas homegrown herbs can be picked and used freely. However, one of the most frequent mistakes people make is using the wrong containers. Without the proper planter, the herbs might not grow well due to a lack of drainage, space or sunlight.
This is where the DIY herb garden planter comes into play. This lets herbs grow strong roots and prevents the soil from becoming unhealthy. Certain planters are meant for small kitchens; others are built to go on a balcony or in a garden. Pick the right one and grow healthy herbs even in the tiniest spaces, indoors or outdoors.
Why the Right Planter Matters
For anyone looking to grow healthy herbs, how to choose the planter is crucial. The type of container can influence how well herbs grow. A bad decision can result in soggy soil, weak roots or slow growth. But if user have the right planter, herbs can flourish indoors and outdoors.
Key Factors to Consider
When selecting a herb planter, it’s essential to think about several important factors.
- Drainage and Soil Moisture
Good drainage is important because too much water can cause root rot. Planters made from unglazed clay allow extra moisture to escape, making them ideal for herbs that prefer dry soil. Plastic pots hold water better and are good for herbs that need more moisture.
- Material and Durability
Diy planters are available in various shapes and in various types of materials like plastic, ceramic, steel, and resin. Plastic is less expensive and lighter, but its lifespan may not be as long. Ceramic is beautiful but can weigh quite a bit. Metal planters are sturdy and the resin is resistant to the elements and suitable for the exterior space.
- Size and Capacity
It’s key that the planter size matches the root size of the herb. Tiny little herbs, like thyme, don’t require much room, but larger ones, like rosemary, require bigger pots. Larger planters with more soil can also accommodate several herbs in a single planter.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Needs
Each setting requires its own sets of lights, temperature control and space. What makes a good indoor planter is not necessarily suitable for outside and vice versa.
- Light and Temperature
Indoor planters should be positioned close to a bright window or under grow lights, since herbs require sunlight to grow. Outdoor planters need to withstand changing weather like heat, wind and rain.
- Mobility and Seasonal Use
The best thing about planters is that they are portable. This also provides a convenient way of taking the favourite herbs indoors during the cold season, or outside during the hotter months. This flexibility allows herbs to grow throughout the year.
Types of Herb Planters
There are lots of best herb planters for kitchen on the market, and they all have benefits in different growing conditions and depending on what the grower wants. The proper planter, whether it’s a classic pot or an advanced hydroponic system, can ensure that the herbs grow healthy and strong. Check out some of the most popular types of planters.
1. Traditional Pots & Planters
Classic pots are the typical and most known way to grow herbs. These are available in materials like terracotta, ceramic and plastic. There are benefits to each kind. Terracotta pots allow for breathability to avoid overwatering, while ceramic pots often fit into the decor and look nice in design.
Plastic pots are relatively cheap and lightweight, but they could have mediocre drainage. Many classic planters also come with built-in drainage trays to help capture excess water and prevent water damage to the surrounding floor, table, or shelf space.
2. Self-Watering Planters
If you don’t have the time to water the plants every single day, then self-watering planters are the way to go. These planters have a self-watering reservoir, which holds water and allows it to be drawn slowly to plants as they need it. This helps maintain moisture levels evenly in the soil, and it’s a time saver for herb lovers on the go. Self-watering containers are ideal for those who travel frequently or tend to forget to water.
3. Vertical & Stackable Planters
Vertical and stackable planters are ideal for tiny yards. These planters are designed to grow multiple plants in one compact, space-saving tower. Special designs let users grow many kinds of herbs in a very small space, such as on a balcony or kitchen counter. These containers inheritably maximize yield while not being space consuming, so people get the benefit of homegrown cucumbers without the need for acres of garden.
4. Window Boxes & Balcony Kits
Window boxes and balcony kits are flat planters that can sit on window sills or balcony railings. They are an excellent choice if people wish to grow herbs, but don't have much outdoor space. These planters must also have good drainage to prevent waterlogging and securely sit in place to handle wind and weather. They are great for growing several herbs that grow well in sunny areas.
Best Herb Garden Planters for Indoor Use
Indoor herb garden ideas are easy when people have the right planters. Here are some of the best indoor herb garden ideas on Growcycle.
1. Panacea Sq Herb Planters With Handles Assorted Colors
These little herb garden kits are available in beautiful hues such as red, blue, or yellow. They’re about 6×6 inches and hold one or two small herb seedlings. The built‑in side handles allow a gardener to slide the pots in and out of narrow window ledges.
The smooth plastic surface wipes clean with a swipe of a rag, and the holes on the base let excess water drain away.
- Lightweight: Easy for anyone to lift, even children.
- Colorful: Brings a fun look to any room.
- Drainage Holes: Prevents overwatering.
2. Majestic Trio Planter White Herb & Succulent Planter
This white planter is split into three equal parts, each being around 5 inches wide. It accommodates three separate herbs, like parsley, chives and mint, growing side by side without becoming crowded.
And the smooth ceramic finish matches with most kitchen decors, while the built-in drip tray collects excess water. A gardener can irrigate each block on its own, keeping plants with varying water requirements in shape.
- Three sections: Keeps herbs organized.
- Ceramic Material: Helps keep soil temperature stable.
- Drip Tray: Stops spills and protects furniture.
3. Gardener Select 24" Coco Liner for Plaid Window/Deck Planter
This 24‑inch liner is constructed from coconut fiber, which retains moisture without blocking the water from draining out the bottom. It will fit in a long window‑box frame or a deck planter. A gardener can fill it with potting mix and some herb seedlings, and then slide it onto a sun-splashed windowsill.
The coco fiber also lends a naturalistic aesthetic, and ultimately deteriorates and increases soil organic matter over time.
- Good Moisture Control: Keeps soil damp without waterlogging.
- Natural Fiber: Biodegradable and eco‑friendly.
- Fits Standard Frames: Works with many window‑box sizes.
4. Robert Allen 4" Concord Garden Planter Set Oceanside
This small but strong set of pots is perfect for growing herb seeds. Each one is 4 inches wide and 4 inches tall, the perfect size for the herbs like thyme or oregano. The durable plastic is crack resistant and won’t fade.
A gardener could cluster a few pots onto a tray or shelf and shift them around as the light changes. A soft blue “Oceanside” color leans cool, injecting a sense of calm to any room.
- Ideal Size for Starters: Perfect for seedlings and cuttings.
- Durable Plastic: Lasts for many growing seasons.
- Compact: Fits on narrow windowsills or small tables.
Best Herb Garden Planters for Outdoor Use
Outdoor herb garden planter box flourishes with solid, well‑draining planters that withstand the sun, rain, wind. These Growcycle choices create new opportunities to grow fresh herbs at patios, balconies or outdoors in the corners of the backyard.
1. Panacea 4'x2' Galvanized & Cedar Elevated Garden Planter with Liner
This elevated planter brings together a durable galvanized steel base with the warmth and beauty of 100% cedar sides. Measuring 4x2ft, it is large enough to hold numerous herb varieties. Standing at an extra-height of 2ft, plants and veggies are elevated off the ground and easier to reach.
A removable liner keeps soil in place and helps to ensure good drainage, so herbs like rosemary and sage will remain healthy, even after heavy rain.
- Spacious Growing Area: Large footprint supports several herbs together.
- Elevated Height: Reduces bending and helps protect plants from ground pests.
- Galvanized Steel & Cedar: Durable materials resist rust and rot.
- Removable Liner: Simplifies soil changes and ensures good drainage.
2. Gardener Select 10" Rectangle Balcony Planter Light Grey
These slim, 10‑inch‑deep are perfect herb planters for balcony or for placing along fence tops. This wicker material is made from a light grey resin material that is weather‑resistant and will not crack in cold weather. Built‑in drainage holes prevent water from pooling after storms. Its narrow shape fits neatly in tight spots, yet holds enough soil for herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill.
An integrated mounting bracket keeps the planter secure, even in gusty winds.
- Compact Design: Ideal for balconies, railings, and narrow ledges.
- Durable Resin: Withstands sun, rain, and cold without fading or cracking.
- Built‑In Drainage: Holes allow excess water to escape, preventing root rot.
- Secure Mounting Bracket: Keeps the planter in place on railings or walls.
3. Smart Pot 7gal Salad & Herb Planter w/Handles Green w/Display Box
This fabric planter can hold around 7 gallons of soil, which is sufficient for a few medium‑sized herb plants such as basil or rosemary. Air can reach the roots and prevents the soil getting too wet. And its two solid handles make it easy to pick up and transport, even when full of soil.
Because it is relatively lightweight when empty, a gardener can just fetch it outside to water, or bring it inside to catch a little extra sun.
- Air Pruning: Roots stop circling and grow stronger.
- Easy to Clean: Fabric can be shaken or rinsed out between seasons.
- Versatile: Works on a countertop, shelf, or near a sunny window.
Setting Up & Maintaining a Herb Planter
Once a suitable planter is selected, it just takes the right set up and regular maintenance to keep herbs growing healthy and strong. Whether the herbs are grown indoors or outside, there are a few simple things user can do to help ensure they’ll grow well.
Soil and Fertilizer
A good quality potting mix, which provides plenty of aeration and drainage is a must. Garden soil is too dense and tends to retain water excessively. Potting mix that includes ingredients like perlite or coco coir is healthier for the roots. Choose slow-release organic fertilizer to feed the herbs. It imparts the plants with the nutrients over time, so that user don’t have to keep feeding them often.
- Use potting mix, not garden soil.
- Choose organic slow-release fertilizer for steady growth.
Watering and Light
Plants require good water and light conditions to be healthy. The soil will need to be checked frequently. If it feels dry an inch below the surface, it’s time to water. The majority of herbs crave sun for 6–8 hours daily. If indoors, set them close to a sunny window or under grow lights. If the leaves go yellow or the plants seem weak, they might benefit from more light or need less water.
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Place in full sun or use grow lights indoors.
Pruning and Harvesting
Pinching off the top leaves is easy, and it helps keep herbs full and bushy. This will prompt the plant to grow outside branches. When collecting herbs, always try to pick them before they flower since that’s when the flavor is richest. Cut no more than one-third of the plant at a time to allow it to keep growing.
- Pinch back tops often for bushier plants.
- Harvest before flowering for the best taste.
Pest and Disease Management
Even herb pots can fall prey to insects like aphids or fungus gnats. Keeping plants spaced out and in fresh air can do a lot. If users have bug issues, it can be safe to use a natural spray, such as neem oil. Sticky traps capture flying pests as well. Pruning unsightly and pot-battered old leaves can halt the spread of disease by reducing the overall level of pathogens.
- Allow air to flow between plants.
- Use neem oil or sticky traps for pest control.
- Remove damaged leaves to avoid disease.
FAQs
What is the best container to grow herbs indoors?
The best indoor herb garden planter box is one with the good drainage and an ample room for the plant roots. Pots of ceramic, plastic or fabric are good choices. If you need to move them, pick lightweight ones. Ensure they fit near a sunny window or under grow lights. Self-watering pots come in handy for gardeners who are always in a rush.
Are herbs better indoors or outdoors?
Herbs perform well both indoors and outside if they receive the proper care. Outside, they receive more light and airflow, allowing them to flourish. Indoors, it’s easier to protect them from pests and cold. Select based on space, climate and sunlight. During the winter months, many gardeners bring herbs indoors.
What size planter is best for herbs?
A 6 to 12-inch pot is usually enough for most herbs. In a small herb garden setup, thyme or chives can grow in 6-inch pots, while larger herbs like basil or rosemary need more space. If growing several herbs together, use a longer container with good depth. Bigger planters also hold more soil, so they dry out more slowly.
The Bottom Line
Growing herbs at home is easy when using the right planter. The best herb planter for the kitchen gives plants enough room, drains water properly, and supports healthy roots. Whether placed indoors near a window or outside herb planters for the balcony, the right container helps herbs grow fresh and strong.
Visit Growcycle to find a wide range of planters for both indoor and outdoor use. From small colorful pots to large raised beds, they have products that suit every space and gardening style.
Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.
About the Author
Victor Miller 
Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture
Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.
