The decision to grow herbs from seed or purchase established plants is a common choice for gardeners seeking fresh, flavorful additions to their kitchen. Both approaches lead to a successful herb garden but cater to different priorities concerning time, budget, and desired outcome. The “better” method depends on the gardener’s experience level, the specific herb, and the immediacy of the desired harvest. Understanding the trade-offs of each method is the first step in planning a thriving herb collection.
The Advantages and Hurdles of Starting Herbs from Seed
Starting herbs from seed is the most cost-effective way to cultivate a garden. A single seed packet often costs less than one starter plant but contains dozens, or even hundreds, of potential plants. This method also grants access to a far greater selection of varieties, including specialized heirloom types or unique cultivars rarely available at local garden centers. Gardeners gain complete control over the plant’s life cycle and cultivation practices from the beginning.
The primary hurdle in starting from seed is the time commitment and the need for specific environmental controls. Many herb seeds, such as rosemary, have low and slow germination rates, sometimes taking two to four weeks to sprout. Successfully germinating seeds indoors often requires supplemental tools. These include heat mats to maintain a consistent soil temperature of 65° to 70°F and dedicated grow lights to prevent seedlings from becoming weak or “leggy.”
Seedlings are vulnerable to issues like “damping off,” a fungal disease that causes young stems to rot at the soil line. Mitigating this risk often requires using a sterile, soilless seed-starting mix. Once seedlings develop their first true leaves, they must be carefully thinned and then gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions in a process known as “hardening off” before final transplanting. This initial period demands significant patience and attention.
The Convenience and Cost of Using Established Herb Plants
Purchasing established herb plants, or transplants, offers an immediate, high-success solution, bypassing the difficult germination phase. A gardener can acquire a plant ready for the garden and begin harvesting leaves almost instantly, providing immediate gratification and a shorter waiting period for culinary use. This method is recommended for those new to gardening or anyone with limited indoor space and equipment for seed starting.
The main drawback is the significantly higher upfront cost per plant compared to seeds. A single starter plant can cost several dollars, making it expensive for gardeners who need a large quantity of a particular herb, such as basil for pesto. Selection is also limited, as nurseries stock only the most common varieties, restricting the choice of unique cultivars.
There is also a risk of introducing pests or diseases, like aphids or spider mites, that may be hidden on a purchased plant and spread to other garden plants. Additionally, all transplants experience stress during the move from the container to the garden bed, resulting in temporary transplant shock. The plant’s root system may also be constrained if it has been growing in a small pot for too long, potentially slowing growth after planting.
Making the Final Choice: Matching the Method to the Herb and Gardener
The choice between seed and plant should be viewed as a practical decision based on the gardener’s resources and the nature of the herb. For budget-conscious gardeners or those prioritizing unique varieties, starting from seed is the superior option. A small investment yields a vast number of potential plants and the widest selection. This method suits those with patience and space for indoor seed starting equipment, typically six to eight weeks before the last frost date.
For gardeners seeking immediate results or those with less experience, purchasing an established plant provides the highest guarantee of success and the quickest harvest. This convenience is preferred for woody, slow-growing perennial herbs like rosemary, lavender, and thyme. These herbs can take months to establish a strong root system from seed due to their low germination rates. Buying established plants ensures a long-term harvest in the first season.
Conversely, fast-growing annual herbs used in large quantities, such as basil, dill, and cilantro, are excellent candidates for being grown from seed. Since these herbs are harvested heavily and can “bolt” quickly in hot weather, sowing successive crops is the most economical way to maintain a continuous supply. Ultimately, combining both methods—using seeds for annuals and purchasing established plants for perennials—often represents the most balanced and efficient approach for the home herb gardener.