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Herb gardens are one of the most rewarding ways to garden: they fit on a windowsill or a patio, and every harvest goes straight into the kitchen. Gifts for herb lovers can help them grow more, harvest neatly and make the most of what they pick.
This guide covers growing herbs indoors and out, plus tools for harvesting, storing and cooking with them. It suits both gardeners who cook and cooks who are just starting to grow.
Quick Picks
| Gift | Best for |
|---|---|
| Terracotta herb pot set | A classic windowsill or patio herb garden |
| Culinary herb seed collection | Growing basil, parsley, chives and more |
| iDOO hydroponic indoor garden | Herbs year-round without soil |
| Five-blade herb scissors | Chopping herbs quickly |
| Prepara Herb Savor | Keeping cut herbs fresh in the fridge |
| Hanging herb drying rack | Drying herbs for later |
| Granite mortar and pestle | Pesto, rubs and herb pastes |
| Homegrown Herbs by Tammi Hartung | Growing and using herbs |
- Indoors or out? Windowsill growers may want pots or a hydroponic garden; outdoor growers may want seeds and harvest tools.
- Think about their cooking. Italian cooks love basil and oregano; others may want cilantro, mint or chives.
- Harvest and storage count. Tools for cutting, drying and storing herbs are useful all year.
- Check light. Most culinary herbs need plenty of sun or a grow light.
Growing Herbs
Terracotta Herb Pot Set
Why it’s a good pick: A set of small terracotta pots with saucers makes a classic herb garden for a sunny windowsill or patio. Terracotta breathes, which many herbs like.
Best for: Windowsill and patio herb growers
What to check before buying: Check the pot size (herbs need room to grow), whether drainage holes and saucers are included.
Culinary Herb Seed Collection
Why it’s a good pick: A collection of kitchen herb seeds such as basil, parsley, cilantro, chives and oregano lets them grow a full herb garden from scratch.
Best for: Gardeners who enjoy starting from seed
What to check before buying: Check the varieties included, the number of seeds and any shipping restrictions for seeds.
iDOO Hydroponic Indoor Garden
Why it’s a good pick: A countertop hydroponic system with built-in LED lights for growing herbs indoors year-round without soil.
Best for: Cooks without outdoor space or a sunny window
What to check before buying: Check the number of pods, light height and whether seed pods are included or sold separately. It needs a power outlet.
Harvesting and Storing
Five-Blade Herb Scissors
Why it’s a good pick: Scissors with several parallel blades chop herbs quickly and evenly, straight into a pan or bowl.
Best for: Cooks who use fresh herbs often
What to check before buying: Check whether a cleaning comb and cover are included; the blades are sharp.
Prepara Herb Savor
Why it’s a good pick: A container that holds cut herbs upright in water in the fridge, helping keep them fresh longer than a bag.
Best for: Keeping store-bought or garden herbs fresh
What to check before buying: Check the size against their fridge door or shelf height.
Hanging Herb Drying Rack
Why it’s a good pick: A hanging mesh rack with several layers lets herbs air-dry for storage and winter use.
Best for: Gardeners with big summer harvests
What to check before buying: Check the number of layers and size, and that it has a zip or opening to keep dust out.
Cooking and Learning
Granite Mortar and Pestle
Why it’s a good pick: A heavy granite mortar and pestle is perfect for pesto, herb pastes, rubs and spice blends.
Best for: Cooks who love fresh herb recipes
What to check before buying: Check the capacity and weight, and follow the seasoning instructions before first use.
Homegrown Herbs by Tammi Hartung
Why it’s a good pick: A guide to growing, harvesting and using many herbs, with practical growing advice and ideas for cooking and preserving.
Best for: Herb gardeners who want to learn more
What to check before buying: Check the edition and format.
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Browse every guide in Gardening Gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good gift for someone who likes growing herbs?
A terracotta herb pot set, a culinary herb seed collection, a hydroponic indoor garden or harvesting tools like herb scissors and a drying rack.
Can herbs grow indoors?
Yes, many herbs grow indoors near a sunny window or under a grow light. Hydroponic gardens make it easier.
What herbs are easiest to grow?
Basil, chives, mint, parsley and oregano are popular choices for beginners.
How do you keep fresh herbs from wilting?
Store soft herbs like parsley and cilantro upright in water in the fridge, or use a herb keeper like the Prepara Herb Savor.
Getting the Timing Right
- Check the delivery date for the recipient’s address at checkout, not just the “fast shipping” label.
- Seeds, bulbs and live plants may have shipping restrictions to some states and countries, and some only ship in certain seasons.
- Bulky items ship separately. Raised beds, compost bins and planters may arrive later than smaller gifts.
- Out of time? A garden center gift card or a digital gift card can be delivered by email on the day.
Before You Buy
- Ask whether they grow indoors or outdoors.
- Check their light and counter space.
- Check seed shipping rules.
- Check the current price and the delivery date at checkout.