Herbs are the gateway to gardening: fast, forgiving, and oh-so-tasty. Here’s how to start in three steps, with costs via our and care from our .

Step 1: Choose Your Herbs
Start with basil, parsley, and mint. They’re beginner-friendly and versatile. Seeds cost $2-$5 each; pots and soil run $10-$15 total.

Step 2: Set Up
Use small pots or a windowsill box with drainage. Fill with potting mix, plant seeds ¼ inch deep, and place in a sunny spot (6+ hours). Water when the top inch dries out—see for more.

Step 3: Grow & Snip
Pinch basil tops to bush out; harvest parsley outer leaves; keep mint from taking over (it’s a spreader!). Fresh herbs in weeks for under $20 total.