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These 8 Herbs Practically Grow Themselves Outdoors

By Ashley Zlatopolsky Dengarden

Updated May 2, 2026 5:54 AM

arena photography — Photo by Nora Carol Photography on Getty Images

Growing herbs outdoors doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. In fact, some varieties do best when left largely alone, thriving in garden beds, containers or even less-than-perfect conditions. If you're looking for herbs that require minimal effort but deliver plenty of flavor, gardening experts say these hardy herbs are tough to mess up.

1. Mint

As one of the easiest herbs to grow, mint is extraordinarily hardy and does well in either full sun or light shade. "You need to keep it well watered, as it prefers moist soil to help maintain its constant growth," says Chrissie Handley, lawn care specialist at Online Turf.

Mint plants produce generous yields, making mint an encouraging herb for beginners to try. "I recommend growing it in a container or pot to help manage the growth so it doesn't get out of hand or take over your garden," she continues.

With regular trimming, mint will keep producing fresh leaves throughout the season that are perfect for teas, salads and garnishes.

2. Rosemary

Rosemary is another low-maintenance herb that thrives in just about any condition, especially in warm, sunny spots.

"It's known to be drought-tolerant, so if you forget to water it here and there, it won't be detrimental to its health," Handley says.

Plant rosemary in sunny, sheltered areas with good drainage. "You can create gorgeous looking purple flowers in your garden, too, a win-win for both your garden and your kitchen," she adds.

Once established, rosemary requires minimal upkeep and can even be shaped into a tidy, fragrant shrub.

3. Chives

Chives are a versatile herb that grows well in anything from full sun to light shade, making them easy to tuck into almost any garden space.

They can even tolerate colder temperatures, so chives that go dormant in winter often bounce back the following spring with minimal intervention.

"They prefer a well-drained nutrient-rich soil and high amounts of nitrogen to help them grow densely," Handley says. "They're also a popular choice for a child's first gardening project, so if toddlers can grow them, then surely everyone else can, too."

Snipping chives regularly encourages new growth and keeps plants looking neat.

4. Basil

Many gardeners call basil a breeze to grow since it thrives with regular harvesting and is quick to reward with fresh, fragrant leaves.

Basil prefers six to eight hours of full sun daily and consistent watering. Keep the soil slightly moist, advises Donna Letier, co-founder and CEO of Gardenuity, but not soggy.

"Always pinch just above a leaf node when harvesting to encourage fuller, bushier growth," she says. Regular harvesting not only provides a steady supply of leaves but also helps prevent the plant from flowering too early, which can affect flavor.

5. Thyme

"Thyme is a true set-it-and-forget-it herb," Letier says. This low-growing plant thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it a great option for garden borders or containers.

Simply allow the soil to dry out between watering and avoid overwatering. "Thyme prefers slightly dry conditions and excellent drainage," she continues.

Once established, it requires little attention and can tolerate heat and drought with ease.

6. Parsley

Parsley is easy to grow and generous in its harvest, making it a staple for beginner gardeners. It prefers full sun to partial shade and evenly moist soil, though it tends to be forgiving if you miss a watering, Letier explains.

"Harvest the outer stems first to keep the plant producing fresh growth from the center," she recommends. With consistent picking, parsley will continue to produce throughout the growing season and can even last into cooler weather.

7. Oregano

Oregano is one of the easiest herbs to grow because it readily handles heat, lean soil and drought, explains Jessica Mercer, horticulturist at Plant Addicts.

"It does best in full sun and well-drained soil, and once established it only needs water when the soil has dried out," she says.

Trim oregano regularly to keep it bushy and to enjoy fresh sprigs. "Give it room or grow it in a container if you don't want it spreading because it can be rambunctious," she adds. Its rigorous growth makes it a reliable option for gardeners who want plenty of flavor with little effort.

8. Sage

Sage grows quickly in plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil, making it another dependable choice for low-maintenance gardening.

"It prefers moderate watering and will struggle in wet ground, especially in winter, so let the top layer of soil dry a bit between waterings," Mercer says.

Harvest sage often and trim it back to keep the plant full and productive. Regular pruning also helps prevent it from becoming woody or sparse over time.

With just a bit of sunlight, occasional watering and regular harvesting, these herbs can thrive with very little hands-on effort. For beginners especially, they offer an easy way to build confidence while enjoying fresh, homegrown flavor straight from the garden.

This story was originally published May 2, 2026 at 5:15 AM.