Herb Seeds to Sow in the Fall

We tend to associate fall with the end of the growing season. However, gardeners who live in sunny, warm regions such as Texas and Florida can grow herbs from seed in the fall and winter.

Types

• Choose from a variety of herb seeds for your fall garden. Perennial herbs, such as lovage and fennel, live and bloom season after season. Annuals, such as anise, chervil, and dill, die after one season, while biennials, such as parsley, bloom and die during their second season.

Features

• Most herbs require well-drained soil, full or partial sun exposure and little or no fertilizer. In the fall, sow herb seeds 1/4 inch into the soil and water thoroughly; thin the seedlings according to the seed package instructions for each herb. Most herbs require water only after the soil dries, but some herbs, such as mint, prefer moist soil.

Time Frame

• According to the University of Florida Extension, you can harvest herbs for immediate use throughout the season. For drying or freezing, harvest leaves as the herbs begin to bloom. To collect seeds, harvest the seed head after it turns brown, dry the seeds for 2 or 3 days, and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.