Old buckets might seem like clutter, but they’re actually perfect homes for fresh herbs. If you’re short on garden space or just love a good DIY project, bucket gardening is a fun and easy way to grow your own herbs at home.
You don’t need a big yard or fancy tools, just a bit of sun, some soil, and your favorite herbs. These 10 herbs are not only low-maintenance, they’re also packed with flavor and grow beautifully in containers.
You can set them on a sunny balcony, porch, or even a kitchen step. With just a little care, you’ll have a mini herb garden within arm’s reach. Ready to get growing?
#1 Dill
Dill grows fast and adds a fresh, tangy flavor to salads, pickles, and fish dishes. It loves sunlight, so place your bucket in a bright spot.
Make sure the soil drains well and stays lightly moist. Harvest the feathery leaves regularly to encourage more growth. You can also collect the seeds once the flowers fade.
#2 Rosemary
This herb has a bold scent and a pine-like flavor that pairs well with roasted vegetables and meats. Rosemary prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Let the top layer of soil dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. A bucket with drainage holes is a must for this one. Prune often to keep the plant bushy and healthy.
#3 Oregano
Oregano thrives in a sunny bucket and brings a punch of flavor to pizzas, pasta, and sauces. It grows best in dry, gritty soil with good drainage.
Water when the top inch feels dry, and avoid overwatering. Snip leaves as needed and trim the plant back after flowering to keep it full.
#4 Parsley
Parsley is one of the easiest herbs to grow and adds a fresh, grassy taste to nearly everything. Choose a deep bucket because parsley forms long roots.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Give it at least four hours of sun daily, and trim outer leaves for a steady supply.
#5 Coriander
Coriander grows quickly and is great for those who love Mexican or Asian dishes. Sow seeds directly in the bucket and thin them out as they grow.
Water regularly, and try to keep the plant cool to avoid bolting. Harvest the leafy tops often for best flavor.
#6 Basil
Basil loves warmth and sunshine, so find a bright corner for your bucket. It grows best in rich, moist soil.
Water deeply when the soil starts to dry, and pinch off the tips to prevent it from flowering. This will help the plant grow bushier and more flavorful.
#7 Dandelion
Not just a weed, dandelion is a nutrient-packed herb with a slightly bitter taste. It grows easily in almost any soil and doesn’t need much attention.
Keep it in partial sun and water occasionally. The leaves are best when young and tender. You can also enjoy the roots and flowers if you like.
#8 Thyme
Thyme has tiny, aromatic leaves that are perfect for seasoning soups, stews, and roasted veggies. This herb prefers full sun and slightly dry soil.
Avoid overwatering and make sure the bucket drains well. You can let it spill over the edges for a lovely trailing effect. Trim it often to encourage fresh growth.
#9 Mint
Mint is a vigorous grower, which makes it ideal for container gardening, where you can keep it contained. Use a bucket with drainage and place it in part sun.
Keep the soil evenly moist and trim it regularly to prevent it from taking over. Mint loves a good haircut and will grow back quickly.
#10 Sage
Sage has soft, silvery leaves and a savory flavor that’s great in roasted dishes and stuffings. It likes full sun and well-draining soil.
Let the soil dry out between waterings, and avoid overcrowding the plant. Prune woody stems to keep the plant looking fresh. Harvest leaves as needed, especially before it flowers.