1
Cilantro
21-30 daysFrom seed to salsa in 3 weeks. Bolts fast, so harvest quickly.
Type: Annual
Top 10 List
10 Fastest Growing Herbs
Can't wait months for your herb garden? These quick-growing herbs provide harvests in weeks, not months.
2
Basil
21-28 daysReady for pesto in under a month from transplant.
Type: Annual
3
Green Onions
14-21 daysRegrow from scraps in 2 weeks. Cut and regrow repeatedly.
Type: Perennial
4
Dill
25-35 daysFast feathery fronds. Let some flower for seeds.
Type: Annual
5
Arugula
21-40 daysTechnically a green, but used like an herb. Peppery fast.
Type: Annual
6
Chervil
28-35 daysQuick-growing parsley relative with anise notes.
Type: Annual
7
Mustard Greens
21-30 daysSpicy leaves ready in under a month. Keep picking.
Type: Annual
8
Mint
14-21 daysSpreads so fast you'll be harvesting constantly.
Type: Perennial
9
Chives
21-30 daysCut and they regrow. Established plants are always ready.
Type: Perennial
10
Parsley
30-45 daysSlower to start but then produces for two years.
Type: Biennial
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the fastest herb from seed?
Cilantro and dill are the fastest from seed - both can be harvested in 21-28 days. For instant herbs, regrow green onions from kitchen scraps in water (7-10 days) or buy transplants for same-day harvesting.
Why do fast herbs bolt quickly?
Annual herbs like cilantro, dill, and basil are programmed to flower and set seed. Their speed to harvest also means speed to bolting. Succession plant every 2-3 weeks for continuous supply.
How do I keep fast herbs producing longer?
Harvest frequently to delay flowering. Pinch off flower buds immediately. Provide afternoon shade in hot weather. For cilantro and dill, let some plants bolt for seeds to replant.