What herbs grow best in Phoenix? Plant your ultimate Arizona herb garden indoors or out

In metro Phoenix, cultivating herbs indoors and outdoors requires strategic planning to accommodate our sunny, arid climate.

For indoor herbs, select varieties that thrive in containers with proper drainage and ample sunlight, such as mint, chives and parsley. For outdoor cultivation, opt for drought-tolerant herbs like oregano and sage planted in well-draining soil and positioned in areas with partial shade to mitigate intense sun exposure.

Regular watering, mulching and occasional pruning are essential for healthy growth. By adapting your gardening style to our environment, you can enjoy a flourishing herb garden indoors and outdoors year-round.

Here's how to grow the ultimate Phoenix herb garden.

What herbs grow best in Phoenix Arizona?

Anne LeSenne is an assistant agent in horticulture at the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. She says these herbs grow well in metro Phoenix:

• Rosemary

• Basil

• Chives

• Thyme

• Sage

• Oregano

• Mint

• Lavender

• Mexican tarragon

When can I plant herbs in Phoenix?

Herbs can generally be planted throughout the year. Optimal times are during the cooler months, typically from late September to early November, or in early spring from February to April.

Planting during these periods allows herbs to establish themselves before the intense summer heat or cooler winter temperatures arrive, aiding in root development and acclimation to the environment. Some herbs may benefit from planting after the last frost date in spring or growing as annuals during the cooler months.

According to LeSenne, herbs in the desert Southwest can generally be grouped into two categories: cool-season annuals, which complete their life cycle within one growing season during cooler months, and perennials that live for multiple growing seasons, often returning year after year from their roots.

What is the best container to grow herbs indoors?

Choosing the right container is crucial for successful indoor herb gardening. Here are some factors to consider:

• Drainage: Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation and root rot.

• Size: Choose containers of appropriate size for your herbs, considering their growth habits and root systems.

• Material: Containers can be made of plastic, ceramic, terracotta or fabric, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Consider factors such as weight, moisture retention and durability.

• Portability: Choose lightweight containers or those with built-in handles if you expect to move the pots around.

“Pots are perfect for small yards or patios," LeSenne said. "It doesn’t matter what kind of soil is in the yard. Containers can be filled with a rich, free-draining soil mix to fit the needs of each plant. In the summer, pots can be moved to shadier spots and frost-sensitive plants can be moved to a protected location in the winter.”

What herbs don’t like heat?

Some herbs are more sensitive to heat and tend to seed prematurely when exposed to high temperatures. Here are a few herbs that generally don't thrive in extreme heat:

• Basil

• Cilantro

• Parsley

• Chervil

• Mint

These herbs can be grown in hot climates with proper care, such as providing shade, adequate water and harvesting leaves regularly. Additionally, planting these herbs during the cooler months or protecting them from the intense midday sun can help them thrive in hot climates.

“Some herbs, such as basil, and rosemary, are true sun lovers, but during the summer in the Southwest the sun can be very intense,” said LeSenne.

What herbs are low maintenance?

LeSenne says that any herb is low maintenance. Most herbs are resilient, drought-tolerant and adaptable, making them ideal choices for beginner gardeners or those with limited time for gardening.

Can you grow herbs indoors without sunlight?

Growing herbs indoors without natural sunlight is possible with artificial grow lights. To succeed in this endeavor, it's essential to provide appropriate lighting, air circulation, humidity levels and careful watering.

Some herbs, like mint, chives and cilantro, are more tolerant of low light conditions and may fare better indoors without direct sunlight. Using full-spectrum LED grow lights and rotating herb pots regularly can help ensure even growth and development.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: How to grow herbs indoors and outdoors in Phoenix: What grows best