How to Start Herb Seeds Indoors
Fresh herbs from seed cost pennies - and taste worlds better than store-bought
Herb Germination Guide
| Herb | Germination | Temp | Light | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basil | 5-10 days | 70-75°F | Needs light | Don't cover seeds. Loves warmth. |
| Cilantro | 7-14 days | 55-68°F | Darkness | Prefers cooler temps. Bolts in heat. |
| Parsley | 14-28 days | 65-75°F | Darkness | Soak seeds overnight to speed up. |
| Dill | 7-14 days | 60-70°F | Needs light | Direct sow or transplant carefully. |
| Chives | 10-14 days | 60-70°F | Darkness | Easy and perennial once established. |
| Oregano | 8-14 days | 65-70°F | Needs light | Tiny seeds - barely cover. |
| Thyme | 14-21 days | 65-70°F | Needs light | Slow grower. Be patient. |
| Sage | 10-21 days | 65-70°F | Needs light | Good drainage essential. |
General Herb Seed Starting Steps
Use Fine Seed Starting Mix
Many herb seeds are tiny. Use a fine, sterile seed starting mix and moisten before sowing.
Surface Sow Light-Lovers
For herbs needing light (basil, oregano, thyme), press seeds onto surface but don't cover. Mist gently.
Maintain Moisture
Cover with plastic or humidity dome until germination. Check daily and mist if needed. Never let tiny seeds dry out.
Provide Warmth
Most herbs germinate at 65-75°F. Basil prefers warmer (70-75°F). Heat mats help in cool rooms.
Thin Ruthlessly
Herb seedlings are often crowded. Thin to one plant per cell when true leaves appear. Use scissors to avoid disturbing roots.
Pro Tip: Start More Than You Need
Herb seeds are cheap and germination can be spotty. Plant 3-4x more than you need, then keep the strongest seedlings. Give extras to neighbors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which herbs are easiest to grow from seed?
Basil, cilantro, dill, and chives are the easiest herbs to start from seed. They germinate quickly and grow fast. Parsley, oregano, and thyme are slower but still manageable for beginners.
Do herb seeds need light to germinate?
It varies! Basil, dill, and lettuce need light - don't cover seeds. Cilantro, parsley, and chives germinate best in darkness. Check the seed packet for specific instructions.
Why do my herb seeds take so long to germinate?
Some herbs are naturally slow. Parsley can take 2-4 weeks; rosemary up to 4 weeks. Ensure proper temperature (65-75°F for most) and consistent moisture. Be patient!
When should I start herb seeds indoors?
Start most herbs 4-6 weeks before last frost. Basil needs warmth, so wait until 4 weeks before. Slow-growing herbs like rosemary and oregano can start 8-10 weeks early.