Herbs to grow outdoors in winter – 11 cold-resistant herbs

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to fresh herbs. In fact, there are several hardy varieties that not only survive but thrive in cold climates, bringing flavor and life to your garden.

Many of these herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, develop a richer flavor in the cold, adding a unique touch to winter dishes. Imagine the earthy scent of rosemary or the fresh scent of chives wafting into your kitchen even when most plants are retired for season.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, growing winter herbs is a rewarding way to keep your garden green and vibrant and provide a steady supply of fresh herbs.

With a little care and the right location (preferably a sunny spot), these herbs can be harvested all season long.

Additionally, if growing outdoors is not possible, an indoor herb garden is a great option during the winter months. So, let’s take a look at which herbs can withstand the cold and what you can do to make them healthy.

How do I plan a winter herb garden?

Planning a winter herb garden can seem a little daunting, especially if you’re used to the lush look of summer.

But with a few simple steps, you can also keep your garden looking vibrant and have fresh herbs all winter long. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide with practical tips to help you grow delicious herbs during the cold months.

1. Choose winter-friendly herbs:

Choose hardy, cold-hardy herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, and chives. These varieties tolerate frost and produce a richer flavor in winter.

2. Find a suitable spot in your garden

Maximize sun exposure: Look for a south-facing location so your herbs get 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. Windbreak: Plant herbs near walls or hedges to protect them from strong winds. Use raised beds: Raised beds improve drainage and help roots avoid waterlogged soil.

3. Consider using containers

Containers make it easier to manage soil, water, and temperature. Use a weather-resistant material such as ceramic or thick plastic, and place the container in a rolling caddy so it can be moved.

4. Prepare the soil properly

Add organic matter: Enrich the soil with compost to improve drainage and nutrient retention. Mulch: Add a thin layer of mulch to insulate roots and maintain soil temperature.

5. Plant at the right time

The goal is to plant six to eight weeks before the first frost. For seeds, sowing in late summer gives the seedlings time to take root before the onset of cold weather.

6. Provide insulation for herbs

Row Covers: Use frosted blankets or row covers for extra warmth. Cloches: Glass or plastic cloches over individual herbs can effectively trap heat. Mulch: A thick layer of mulch helps protect roots from freezing temperatures.

7. Water wisely during winter.

Avoid overwatering: To prevent root rot, water only when the top of the soil is dry. Water on calm days: Water on warm days to prevent the soil from freezing.

8. Use less fertilizer

Limit fertilization during the winter months, as most herbs don’t need many nutrients while dormant. If necessary, use diluted organic fertilizers on active growers like mint.

Differences between perennials, biennials, and annuals

1. Perennials

These hardy herbs grow year after year and are low maintenance. Some perennials, such as thyme, rosemary, oregano, and sage, are also cold hardy and will tolerate frost with minimal protection. Growth grows stronger each season and can be protected through the winter with only light pruning and mulching.

2. Biennial herbs

Biennials such as parsley and caraway have a two-year life cycle. In the first year, leaves grow, and in the second year, flowers bloom and seeds are obtained.

Many biennials are relatively cold hardy, especially in the first year, and are suitable for mild winter climates.

3. Cold-resistant annual grass

Some annuals can tolerate colder climates, even if they need to be replanted each season. Coriander, chervil, and dill can tolerate light frosts, making them ideal for long-term harvesting until early winter.

Be sure to plant in a sheltered location or with row covers to protect them from sudden drops in temperature.

11 herbs to grow outdoors in winter

1. Sorrel

Sorrel is a unique herb with a tart, lemony flavor that brightens salads, soups, and sauces. Its tangy flavor adds a tangy twist to dishes and brings out the flavors of other ingredients.

A hardy perennial, sorrel is surprisingly easy to grow and thrives in cool climates, making it a popular winter plant. This herb grows about 18 to 24 inches tall and can spread a bit, so I sometimes use garden covers like mini hoop tunnels or row covers to protect it from frost. Sorrel tolerates cold well, but a light mulch protects the roots and helps maintain vigor.

2. Greek Oregano

Greek oregano is a culinary staple with a bold, peppery flavor that’s perfect for Mediterranean cuisine, pizza, and marinades. This low-growing perennial is more cold-hardy than common oregano and easily tolerates light frosts.

Greek oregano reaches about 12 to 18 inches tall and spreads profusely, making a beautiful winter ground cover. To maintain growth, use mini hoop tunnels or cold frames, especially in cold conditions, to maintain greenness and flavor throughout the season.

3.Mint

Mint is a hardy herb with a refreshing aroma, perfect for teas, salads, and garnishes. With varieties like spearmint, peppermint, and chocolate mint, the flavor options are endless. Mint is a fast-growing perennial, so it’s often planted in containers to keep it from spreading.

Mint typically grows 12 to 18 inches tall and tolerates cold weather well, but a layer of mulch or row cover can help keep it green longer in the winter.

4. Rosemary

Rosemary’s strong, piney aroma and flavor make it a favorite for roasting meats, potatoes, and bread. This evergreen perennial is hardy in mild winters, but cannot tolerate extreme cold, so I like to keep it protected.

Rosemary grows up to 36 inches. Outdoors, add extra warmth with a larger cold frame or a sheltered spot near a wall. This extra care will keep it lush and flavorful all winter long.

5. Chives

Chives bring a mild onion flavor to dishes and are an essential garnish for soups, baked potatoes, and omelettes. This perennial grows in neat clumps about 12 to 18 inches tall and makes a nice addition to your winter garden.

Chives are very hardy and can tolerate frost, but a little mulch and a small cloche will help them survive the colder months. Its elasticity and flavor make it a winter garden staple.

6. Time

Thyme’s earthy, slightly minty flavor pairs beautifully with meats, stews, and roasted vegetables. This low-growing perennial only reaches about 6 to 12 inches in height, making it perfect for small winter gardens or container plantings.

Thyme is hardy and often stays green under light snow, but it will stay even stronger with row cover or mulch during the winter. It is one of the herbs that can be used immediately when needed, regardless of the season.

7. Parsley

Far beyond its role as a traditional garnish, parsley is an incredibly versatile herb that adds freshness to pasta, salads, and soups. Parsley comes in both curly and flat-leafed varieties, producing leaves in the first year and flowers in the second, making them biennial.

Both types spread to about 18 to 20 inches, so I use larger garden covers such as cold frames or polytunnels to protect them over the winter. This will ensure you have plenty of fresh parsley when you need it most.

8. Chervil

Chervil’s delicate, slightly anise-like flavor makes it perfect for French-inspired dishes, eggs, and salads. This biennial grows about 12 to 24 inches tall and tolerates cold temperatures well, although it is a little more sensitive than other hardy herbs.

To preserve flavor and prevent frost damage, in cold regions we protect them with mini-hoop tunnels or cold frames. With this little touch, chervil is a winter herb that brings a unique flavor to my kitchen.

9. Sage

Sage’s rich, earthy flavor enhances meats, soups, and stuffings, making it a staple in hearty winter dishes. This woody perennial can grow up to 24 inches and is naturally hardy, especially in cold-weather varieties like ‘Berggarten’ sage.

Although sage is frost tolerant, I like to insulate it with mulch or row covers during colder months to keep it lush and ready for use in the kitchen.

10. Marjoram

A close relative of oregano, marjoram has a slightly sweet, mild flavor that goes well with soups, sauces, and marinades. This tender perennial grows about 12 to 18 inches tall and tolerates mild frosts, but requires a little winter protection.

In colder regions, I use row covers or cold frames to maintain growth and ensure marjoram survives until spring when it is fully grown again.

These hardy herbs provide fresh, flavorful produce even in cold weather and are a great way to keep your winter garden thriving. With proper protection and care, they can withstand the winter cold and provide homegrown taste all season long.

11. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a hardy, lemon-scented herb that’s perfect for winter gardens, especially in USDA zones 4 through 9. It grows best in well-drained soil with regular watering and prefers full sun to partial shade. In cold regions, you can also grow it in a pot and bring it indoors.

This versatile herb adds a mild citrus flavor to teas, soups, and sauces, and its calming properties make it a refreshing and comforting addition to winter recipes. Lemon balm is easy to grow and care for, is fragrant, low-maintenance, and can be enjoyed year-round.

conclusion

Growing herbs in the winter is a great way to keep your garden productive during the colder months and add fresh flavor to your dishes. When used properly, hardy varieties like rosemary, thyme, and parsley can provide a steady supply of green vegetables to brighten up your kitchen.

Whether you’re planting them outdoors in a sunny spot or setting up a small indoor herb garden, winter herbs are vigorous and surprisingly low-maintenance. With just a little care, these cold-hardy herbs will thrive throughout the season, bringing color, aroma, and fresh taste to your home when you need it most.