When to Plant Herbs in Missouri: A Guide to Growing Herbs in the Show-Me State

When To Plant Herbs In Missouri

When it comes to growing herbs in Missouri, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is the climate. Missouri has a humid continental climate, which means that it has hot summers and cold winters. This can make it difficult to grow some herbs, as they may not be able to tolerate the extreme temperatures.

The second thing to consider is the soil. Missouri’s soil is typically loamy and fertile, but it can also be heavy and clay-like. This can make it difficult for some herbs to grow, as they may not be able to get the nutrients they need from the soil.

The third thing to consider is the pests and diseases that are common in Missouri. Some herbs are more susceptible to pests and diseases than others, so it’s important to be aware of what you’re up against.

With all of these factors in mind, it’s still possible to grow a variety of herbs in Missouri. By choosing the right herbs for your climate, soil, and pest situation, you can enjoy fresh herbs all season long.

In this article, we’ll discuss the best time to plant herbs in Missouri, as well as the different types of herbs that are well-suited for the state’s climate. We’ll also provide tips on how to care for your herbs and how to harvest them for maximum flavor.

Herb Best Planting Time Notes
Basil Spring or early summer Basil does not tolerate frost, so it is best to wait until the weather has warmed up before planting.
Chives Spring or fall Chives can be planted in either spring or fall, but they will grow better if they are planted in the spring.
Cilantro Spring or early summer Cilantro does not tolerate frost, so it is best to wait until the weather has warmed up before planting.
Dill Spring or fall Dill can be planted in either spring or fall, but it will grow better if it is planted in the spring.
Mint Spring or early summer Mint is a perennial herb, so it can be planted in either spring or early summer.
Oregano Spring or early summer Oregano does not tolerate frost, so it is best to wait until the weather has warmed up before planting.
Parsley Spring or fall Parsley can be planted in either spring or fall, but it will grow better if it is planted in the spring.
Rosemary Spring or fall Rosemary is a perennial herb, so it can be planted in either spring or fall.
Sage Spring or early summer Sage does not tolerate frost, so it is best to wait until the weather has warmed up before planting.
Thyme Spring or early summer Thyme does not tolerate frost, so it is best to wait until the weather has warmed up before planting.

The Best Time to Plant Herbs in Missouri

The best time to plant herbs in Missouri depends on the type of herb you are planting.

  • Perennial herbs can be planted in the spring or fall. They will come back year after year, so you only need to plant them once. Some popular perennial herbs for Missouri include:
  • Rosemary
  • Thyme
  • Sage
  • Mint
  • Lavender
  • Chives
  • Annual herbs are only grown for one season, so they need to be planted every year. You can plant annual herbs in the spring or summer. Some popular annual herbs for Missouri include:
  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Oregano
  • Parsley
  • Dill
  • Summer savory
  • Hardy herbs can withstand cold weather and can be planted in the fall or winter. Some popular hardy herbs for Missouri include:
  • Rosemary
  • Thyme
  • Sage
  • Lavender
  • Chives
  • Tender herbs cannot withstand cold weather and need to be planted in the spring or summer. Some popular tender herbs for Missouri include:
  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Oregano
  • Parsley
  • Dill
  • Summer savory

Spring

The best time to plant most herbs in Missouri is in the spring, when the weather is warming up and the soil is starting to thaw. This is when the herbs will have the best chance of establishing themselves and growing strong.

When planting herbs in the spring, it is important to choose a location that gets full sun. Most herbs need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.

The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. If your soil is not very fertile, you can add compost or manure to improve the drainage and nutrient content.

When planting herbs, it is important to water them well. The soil should be moist but not soggy. You may need to water them more often if the weather is hot and dry.

Summer

Most herbs will do well in Missouri summers, as long as they are watered regularly. The warm weather and plenty of sunshine will help them to grow quickly and produce a lot of leaves.

In the summer, it is important to water herbs deeply and regularly. The soil should never dry out completely. You may need to water them more often if the weather is hot and dry.

It is also important to fertilize herbs in the summer. You can use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer. Fertilize them every 4-6 weeks, or according to the directions on the fertilizer label.

Fall

The best time to plant some herbs in Missouri is in the fall. This is when you can plant hardy herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, sage, and lavender. These herbs can withstand the cold weather and will come back year after year.

When planting herbs in the fall, it is important to choose a location that gets full sun. Most herbs need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.

The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. If your soil is not very fertile, you can add compost or manure to improve the drainage and nutrient content.

When planting herbs, it is important to water them well. The soil should be moist but not soggy. You may need to water them more often if the weather is dry.

Winter

Most herbs will not survive the winter in Missouri. However, you can overwinter some herbs indoors. This is a great way to enjoy fresh herbs all year long.

To overwinter herbs indoors, you will need to choose a location that gets bright, indirect light. Most herbs will need at least 4 hours of bright light per day to survive.

The temperature in the overwintering location should be between 45 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature gets too cold, the herbs will not survive.

You will also need to water the herbs regularly. The soil should be moist but not soggy. You may need to water them more often if the air is dry.

The best time to plant herbs in Missouri depends on the type of herb you are planting. Most herbs will do well in the spring or fall, but some herbs can be planted in the summer or winter. By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh herbs all year long.

What Herbs to Plant in Missouri

Missouri has a wide range of climates, from the humid, subtropical climate of the Ozarks to the hot, dry climate of the southwest. This means that there are a

When To Plant Herbs In Missouri?

The best time to plant herbs in Missouri depends on the specific herb you are planting. Some herbs, such as basil, cilantro, and mint, can be planted in the spring or summer, while others, such as parsley, rosemary, and thyme, should be planted in the fall or winter.

Here is a general planting guide for herbs in Missouri:

  • Spring-planted herbs: Basil, cilantro, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme.
  • Summer-planted herbs: Basil, cilantro, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, and rosemary.
  • Fall-planted herbs: Chives, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme.
  • Winter-planted herbs: Chives, mint, parsley, and thyme.

Of course, you can also plant herbs indoors at any time of year. Just be sure to give them plenty of light and water.

How to Plant Herbs in Missouri

Once you know when to plant your herbs, you can start preparing your garden. Here are the steps involved in planting herbs in Missouri:

1. Choose a location. Herbs do best in full sun, but some varieties can tolerate partial shade. Make sure the area you choose has well-drained soil.
2. Prepare the soil. Before planting, loosen the soil in your garden bed or container to a depth of 12 inches. If your soil is heavy clay, add some compost or sand to improve drainage.
3. Plant the herbs. Dig holes that are deep enough to accommodate the roots of your herbs. Space the plants about 12 inches apart.
4. Water the herbs. Water your herbs thoroughly after planting. Be sure to water them regularly, especially during dry periods.
5. Fertilize the herbs. Fertilize your herbs once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
6. Pest control. Keep an eye out for pests, such as aphids, caterpillars, and slugs. If you see any pests, treat them with an organic insecticide.

Caring for Herbs in Missouri

Once your herbs are established, they are relatively easy to care for. Here are a few tips for caring for herbs in Missouri:

  • Water the herbs regularly. Herbs need regular water to stay healthy. Water them deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.
  • Fertilize the herbs once a month. Fertilize your herbs with a balanced fertilizer once a month.
  • Pest control. Keep an eye out for pests, such as aphids, caterpillars, and slugs. If you see any pests, treat them with an organic insecticide.
  • Prune the herbs. Prune your herbs regularly to keep them healthy and bushy. Prune them in the spring or summer, just before they flower.
  • Harvesting the herbs. You can harvest your herbs as needed. To harvest, simply cut the stems just above a leaf node.
  • Overwintering the herbs. Some herbs, such as basil, cilantro, and dill, are annuals and will die after the first frost. Other herbs, such as parsley, rosemary, and thyme, are perennials and will come back year after year. If you live in an area with cold winters, you will need to overwinter your perennial herbs. To do this, dig up the plants in the fall and store them in a cool, dry place until spring.

By following these tips, you can successfully grow a variety of herbs in Missouri. Herbs are a great way to add flavor to your cooking, and they are also beautiful additions to your garden.

Herbs are a great way to add flavor and variety to your cooking. They are also relatively easy to grow in Missouri, as long as you follow the tips in this guide. With a little care, you can enjoy fresh herbs all year long.

When is the best time to plant herbs in Missouri?

The best time to plant herbs in Missouri is in early spring, after the last frost date. This will give the herbs plenty of time to establish themselves before the heat of summer sets in.

What herbs can I grow in Missouri?

There are many herbs that can be grown in Missouri, including:

  • Basil
  • Chives
  • Dill
  • Mint
  • Oregano
  • Parsley
  • Rosemary
  • Sage
  • Thyme

How do I care for my herbs?

Herbs need full sun and well-drained soil. They should be watered regularly, but not too much. Fertilize them once a month with a water-soluble fertilizer.

How do I harvest my herbs?

Harvest herbs by cutting the stems just above the leaf node. This will encourage new growth.

How can I use my herbs?

Herbs can be used fresh or dried in a variety of dishes, including:

  • Salads
  • Soups
  • Sauces
  • Pizzas
  • Sandwiches
  • Drinks

What are some common problems with growing herbs?

Some common problems with growing herbs include:

  • Pests, such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies
  • Diseases, such as powdery mildew and rust
  • Watering too much or too little
  • Not providing enough sun or nutrients

How can I prevent problems with my herbs?

You can prevent problems with your herbs by:

  • Planting resistant varieties
  • Using organic pest control methods
  • Watering your herbs correctly
  • Providing them with enough sun and nutrients

    the best time to plant herbs in Missouri depends on the specific herb. For example, cool-season herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and mint can be planted in early spring or late fall, while warm-season herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme should be planted in late spring or early summer. By following these planting guidelines, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown herbs all season long.

Here are some additional tips for growing herbs in Missouri:

  • Choose a sunny spot in your garden or patio. Most herbs need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
  • Plant your herbs in well-drained soil. Herbs do not tolerate soggy soil, so make sure to amend your soil with compost or sand if it is too heavy.
  • Water your herbs regularly, especially during dry spells. Herbs need consistent moisture to produce their best flavor.
  • Fertilize your herbs monthly with a balanced fertilizer. This will help them to grow strong and healthy.
  • Pinch back your herbs regularly to encourage bushy growth. This will also help to prevent them from flowering, which can reduce their flavor.

By following these tips, you can easily grow a beautiful and bountiful herb garden in Missouri.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.