One of the most empowering aspects of growing herbs at home is learning to work with the rhythm of the seasons — even in an urban setting. While cities may seem removed from nature, your windowsill or balcony can still become a year-round sanctuary of green, scent, and healing.
The key is knowing what thrives when — and how to adapt your approach as temperatures shift.
Spring: Time to Start Fresh
Spring is when everything reawakens. It’s the ideal season to plant seeds and repot established herbs. This is when you’ll want to start your basil, cilantro, dill, and parsley. Longer days and gentle warmth create perfect growing conditions.
Use this time to refresh your soil, clean out old containers, and give your garden space a small makeover. Even the act of preparing for new growth can feel cleansing and symbolic — like turning a fresh page in your own life.
Summer: Abundance and Care
Summer brings rapid growth. Your herbs will flourish with the heat and sunshine, especially Mediterranean varieties like thyme, oregano, rosemary, and sage. Watering becomes more important now, but be mindful not to overdo it — most herbs prefer to dry slightly between waterings.
This is also the best time to begin harvesting. The more you trim your herbs (correctly), the more they grow. A quick snip of mint for iced tea or basil for your salad not only tastes better — it keeps the plant productive and happy.
Autumn: Harvest and Preserve
As the weather cools, your herbs will start slowing down. Autumn is the season of gratitude and gathering — both literally and emotionally. Use this time to dry herbs for winter use, make herbal oils, or create small bundles to give as gifts.
Some herbs, like chives or parsley, can continue growing with cooler nights. Others, like basil, are sensitive to temperature drops and should be harvested before the first chill. Bringing potted herbs indoors at this stage helps extend their life and gives your home a green, vibrant feel.
Winter: Rest and Reflection
Even in winter, your herb garden has life. Indoor varieties like mint, thyme, and rosemary can thrive on a bright windowsill. With growth slowed, this is a time to reflect on your gardening journey, enjoy your preserved herbs, and plan for the seasons ahead.
Caring for even a few green plants in the colder months provides comfort, color, and a reminder that life continues — even quietly.