17 Herbs To Plant In The Fall

Fall might seem like the time to pack away gardening tools, but it’s actually perfect for planting certain herbs.

Many gardeners miss out on this productive season thinking it’s too late to start growing.

With cooler temperatures and typically more rainfall, fall offers ideal conditions for establishing herbs before winter.

Ready to extend your growing season? These 17 fall herb ideas will help you keep your garden productive long after summer ends.

Rosemary – A Robust Fall Favorite

Rosemary thrives when planted in fall. This woody perennial establishes strong roots during cooler months, preparing it for vigorous spring growth. Plant in well-draining soil and sunny locations for best results.

• Needs minimal watering once established
• Can survive winter in zones 7-10
• Perfect for container growing if you need to bring it indoors

Rosemary’s pine-like fragrance makes it worth the effort, and you’ll appreciate having fresh sprigs for winter roasts and stews.

Thyme for Fall Planting

Thyme is incredibly forgiving for fall planting. This low-growing herb forms dense mats of aromatic foliage that will establish well before winter dormancy.

Plant thyme in gravelly, well-draining soil where it gets plenty of sunlight. It’s actually tougher and more flavorful when grown in slightly challenging conditions – no babying required!

Sage Advice for Autumn Gardens

Sage is practically made for fall planting. This Mediterranean herb establishes strong root systems during autumn months, making it more resilient come spring.

• Drought-tolerant once established
• Beautiful silver-gray foliage adds winter interest
• Perennial in zones 5-9

Give sage a sunny spot with excellent drainage, and it’ll reward you with years of aromatic leaves for your stuffing and sausages.

Mint: The Fall Opportunist

Mint can be invasive during active growing seasons, but fall planting gives you a chance to establish it with more control. The cooler weather tempers its aggressive growth while allowing roots to develop.

Plant mint in containers or use barriers in the ground to prevent it from taking over. Your future mojitos and teas will thank you for the effort.

Chives for Fall Planting Success

Chives planted in fall develop strong roots before winter sets in. This member of the onion family is one of the earliest herbs to emerge in spring when planted the previous autumn.

They prefer rich, moist soil but will tolerate various conditions once established. Divide existing clumps in early fall for the best results – they’ll thank you with abundant growth next year.

Parsley: The Biennial Beauty

Fall is actually the perfect time to plant parsley. As a biennial, parsley planted in autumn will produce lush foliage the following spring and summer.

• Choose flat-leaf varieties for better cold tolerance
• Plant in rich, moist soil with good drainage
• Provide some protection in harsh winter climates

Parsley needs a bit more moisture than Mediterranean herbs, so plant it where it won’t dry out completely.

Cilantro Thrives in Fall Weather

Cilantro actually prefers cooler temperatures and will bolt quickly in summer heat. Fall planting gives this herb its best chance to thrive.

Plant successive batches every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest. The cooler weather means slower bolting and longer leaf production. And if it does bolt? You’ll get coriander seeds as a bonus!

Dill: Fall’s Surprise Performer

Dill appreciates the cooler temperatures of fall. This feathery herb can establish itself before winter and often self-seeds for next season.

Plant dill in well-draining soil where it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight. It’s worth growing just for the feathery texture it adds to your garden, not to mention its distinctive flavor for fish dishes and pickles.

Oregano’s Fall Advantage

Oregano establishes strong root systems when planted in fall. This Mediterranean herb prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunshine.

• Drought-tolerant once established
• Perennial in zones 5-10
• More flavorful when grown in lean soil

The cooler temperatures and typically higher rainfall of fall help oregano establish without the stress of summer heat.

Garlic Chives: The Fall Standout

Garlic chives planted in fall will reward you with early spring growth. Their mild garlic flavor and pretty white blossoms make them both ornamental and practical.

Unlike regular chives, garlic chives have flat, not tubular, leaves. They’re extremely cold-hardy and will thrive in most garden conditions with minimal fuss.

Lavender Loves Fall Planting

Contrary to its delicate appearance, lavender is tough and benefits from fall planting. The cooler months allow roots to establish without the stress of summer heat.

Ensure excellent drainage – lavender hates wet feet more than cold temperatures. Plant on a slight mound if your soil tends to retain moisture. The fragrance alone makes it worth adding to your fall planting list.

Chamomile: Fall’s Sleepy Helper

Chamomile can be sown in fall for early spring flowers. This apple-scented herb makes the most soothing tea and adds charm to any garden.

• German chamomile is annual but self-seeds readily
• Roman chamomile forms a perennial ground cover
• Both varieties prefer well-draining soil

Fall planting allows seeds to stratify naturally during winter, improving germination rates come spring.

Bay Laurel: The Fall Investment

Bay laurel planted in fall has time to acclimate before summer heat arrives. This slow-growing herb is worth the investment, providing aromatic leaves for years to come.

In colder climates, plant bay in containers that can be brought indoors during winter. A single plant can provide all the bay leaves a typical kitchen needs.

Winter Savory for Year-Round Flavor

Winter savory, as the name suggests, is well-adapted to cooler seasons. This underused herb deserves a spot in your fall planting schedule.

It forms a small woody shrub with intense flavor that holds up well in slow-cooked dishes. Plant in well-draining soil with plenty of sunshine, and it’ll reward you with years of aromatic leaves.

Sorrel: Fall’s Tangy Surprise

Sorrel planted in fall will emerge early the following spring. Its lemony, tangy leaves add brightness to early spring meals when other herbs are still dormant.

Plant sorrel in rich, moist soil where it gets morning sun. It’s one of the earliest perennial herbs to emerge in spring when established in fall.

Lemon Balm’s Fall Establishment

Lemon balm planted in fall develops strong roots before winter dormancy. This member of the mint family is less aggressive than its cousin but still vigorous.

• Prefers partial shade in hot climates
• Attracts beneficial pollinators
• Makes a delightful tea and dessert flavoring

The citrusy fragrance makes it worth including in any herb garden, and fall planting gives it a head start for next season.

Fennel: The Fall Double-Duty Herb

Fennel can be planted in fall for both its feathery foliage and bulbous base. This versatile herb adds anise flavor to dishes and architectural interest to gardens.

Plant fennel where it has room to grow – it can reach 5 feet tall. The fall-planted bulbs will size up nicely in spring before summer heat triggers bolting.

Ready to Dig In This Fall?

Fall herb planting extends your gardening season and gives you a jump-start on next year’s harvests. Most herbs actually prefer establishing during cooler weather, developing stronger root systems that lead to more vigorous plants.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these fall herb options provide flavor, fragrance, and satisfaction long after summer gardens have faded. Grab your trowel – autumn’s ideal planting weather won’t last forever!