Get Started Growing Herbs

64 products

Wondering how to grow herbs but not sure where to begin? This collection is for you. We have hand-picked the most forgiving, easy-to-grow herb plants that reward beginners with quick results and very little fuss. No green thumb required.

Start with tried-and-true favourites like Sweet Basil, Italian Parsley and Chives. These hardy plants are tough enough for beginner gardeners and useful enough to keep you inspired. At Herb Cottage, we have been helping new herb gardeners get started for over three decades, and our team is always here to help.

Learn more about this collection

Growing herbs in Australia is one of the most satisfying ways to start gardening. Herbs are generally compact, fast-growing and far more forgiving than most people expect. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a sunny balcony, there is a herb garden for beginners waiting to happen.

The key to success is choosing the right spot. Most herbs love sunshine, so aim for a position that gets at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Good drainage is essential as well. If your soil is heavy clay, consider raised beds or pots with quality potting mix. Water regularly but avoid soggy roots, and you will be off to a great start.

For your first herbs, we recommend starting with plants that are hard to get wrong. Peppermint and Vietnamese Mint are almost indestructible (best grown in pots to contain their enthusiasm). Lemon Balm is another vigorous grower that thrives with minimal attention. Chives and Garlic Chives just keep coming back, and Curled Parsley is a reliable performer across most seasons.

Beyond the kitchen, there are wonderful herbs for beginners that bring beauty, fragrance and natural health benefits to your garden. Calendula produces cheerful golden flowers and is traditionally used in natural skincare. German Chamomile is easy to grow and perfect for herbal teas. Comfrey is a powerhouse companion plant that doubles as a natural fertiliser. And Nasturtium adds a peppery kick to salads while attracting beneficial insects.

For those interested in growing medicinal herbs, Echinacea Purpurea, Nettle, Self Heal and Aloe barbadensis are all beginner-friendly and traditionally used for a range of health and wellness purposes. Wild Rocket is another excellent starter plant that grows quickly and brings a delicious bite to salads and sandwiches.

All plants in this collection are grown organically at our Gold Coast nursery and shipped via Express Post (excluding WA, NT and TAS due to quarantine). For more growing tips and inspiration, visit our Grow Your Health blog. And if you ever get stuck, reach out to our team. We love helping new gardeners discover the joy of growing their own herbs.

    64 products

    About Get Started Growing Herbs

    Learn how to grow herbs with this beginner-friendly collection from Herb Cottage. We have selected the easiest, most reliable herb plants for new gardeners, including basil, parsley, chives, mint and more. These hardy herbs grow well in pots or garden beds and deliver quick, rewarding results.

    All plants are grown organically at our Gold Coast nursery and shipped via Express Post. Visit our Grow Your Health blog for growing guides and tips to help your herb garden thrive.

    Frequently asked questions

    What are the easiest herbs to grow for beginners in Australia?

    Mint, chives, parsley, basil and lemon balm are some of the easiest herbs for beginners. These plants are hardy, fast-growing and forgiving of occasional neglect. They grow well in pots or garden beds across most Australian climates, especially in subtropical and temperate regions.

    How do I start a herb garden from scratch?

    Find a spot with at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. Prepare your soil with compost or use a quality potting mix for containers. Start with 3 to 5 easy herbs, water regularly without overwatering, and pick leaves often to keep your plants bushy and productive. Starting with established plants rather than seeds gives beginners quicker results and a better success rate.

    Can I grow herbs indoors in Australia?

    Some herbs can grow indoors if they receive enough natural light. Chives, parsley and mint can manage in a bright windowsill. However, most herbs perform best outdoors where they get direct sunlight. A sunny balcony or patio is an excellent option if you do not have garden space.

    How often should I water my herb garden?

    Most herbs prefer consistent moisture without waterlogging. In warmer months, water every 1 to 2 days for potted herbs and every 2 to 3 days for garden beds. In cooler months, reduce watering and let the top layer of soil dry out between waterings. Good drainage is more important than frequent watering.

    Do you ship live herb plants for beginner gardeners?

    Yes, all our herb plants are shipped Australia-wide via Express Post to ensure they arrive healthy and ready to plant. Please note that due to quarantine regulations, we cannot ship live plants to Western Australia, Northern Territory or Tasmania. Our team is always happy to help you choose the right herbs for your growing conditions.

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