Herb-Themed Gardens

A collage of 5 images: echinacea flowers in garden with yellow blurred flowers in background, purple basil in garden, white yarrow with orange-red butterflies, a tincture of peppermint on wood near peppermint leaves, and a cup of camomile tea with camomile flowers in it.

Growing Herbs in the Valley of the Sun

Creating your own herb garden is one of the most rewarding ways to enhance your outdoor space. Whether you use them for cooking, healing, or simply for their beauty, herbs are versatile, practical, and surprisingly easy to grow—even in the desert climate of Phoenix. At SummerWinds Nursery, our experts can guide you through selecting the right herbs for your yard or home. To make the process simpler, consider designing your garden around a theme that suits your lifestyle.

For example, if you love to cook, why not create a culinary herb garden? Basil and garlic are great choices, especially when grown in containers, which help protect them from the intense summer heat. Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, oregano, and thyme also thrive in the Valley's hot, dry conditions and can be the backbone of a beautiful, low-maintenance garden. If you're looking to attract beneficial insects, consider adding herbs like parsley or dill, which will not only support pollinators but also help your other plants by naturally repelling pests.

Choosing the Right Theme for Your Garden

Aloe vera plantWhen planning your herb garden, think about what fits your daily life. What are your favorite activities or culinary preferences? Here are a few popular theme ideas:

1. Medicinal Herb Garden:
If you're interested in natural remedies, a medicinal herb garden could be perfect for you. Aloe vera, which thrives in our desert conditions, is a great starter plant for its healing properties. Other popular medicinal herbs include horehound and purple coneflower (echinacea), both of which can handle the Valley's warm climate.

purple and green basils growing in the garden2. Culinary Herb Garden:
Whether you're a pizza lover or enjoy grilling, a culinary-themed herb garden is a fantastic way to grow fresh ingredients at home. Basil, garlic, rosemary, and dill all thrive in the Valley when properly cared for. For those who enjoy the spicy flavors of the Southwest, chili peppers are a great addition to any culinary garden and perform well in our hot, sunny environment.

White, yellow, pink, purple and orange yarrows growing in the garden.3. Wildlife and Pollinator-Friendly Garden:
Herbs can do more than just flavor your food—they can attract and support local wildlife. Yarrow, bee balm, and lavender are excellent choices for attracting butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. These plants are also drought-tolerant, making them ideal for the desert landscape. Consider using these herbs in areas that get full sun and pair them with mulch to help retain moisture.

Bee on Lavender with sunlight in background4. Aromatherapeutic Herb Garden:
If you’re looking to create a calming space, fragrant herbs are a wonderful addition to your garden. Lavender, sage, peppermint, and lemon balm not only smell amazing, but they also thrive in the dry, warm climate of the Valley. Planting them in well-draining soil and ensuring they receive plenty of sunlight will yield a garden full of soothing scents perfect for relaxation and meditation.

chamomile plant5. Tea Herb Garden:
Growing your own herbs for tea is not only fun but also practical! Herbs like mint, lemon balm, lemon verbena, and chamomile do well in the Valley and provide delicious flavors for home-brewed teas.

TIP: Be mindful of where you plant mint, as it is often invasive—containers are a great option for controlling its spread.

Tips for Herb Gardening in the Valley

Herbs in a gardenBelow are some tips to help you successfully grow herbs in the greater metro Phoenix area:

  • Water Wisely: Our hot, dry climate can be harsh on plants, so make sure to water early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation. Consider installing a drip irrigation system for consistent moisture.

  • Heat Tolerance: Choose herbs that are drought-tolerant and heat-loving. Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, lavender, and thyme are especially suited to our desert climate.

  • Shade Consideration: While most herbs love the sun, our intense summer heat can be overwhelming. Consider planting in containers that can be moved into shaded areas during peak summer, or plant under trees or shade structures for protection.

  • Seasonal Planting: In the Valley, fall and early spring are the best times to plant most herbs. Summers can be too extreme for young plants to establish. Therefore, we recommend that you start your garden during our cooler months for the best success.

Whether you’re looking to create a space for cooking, relaxation, or attracting pollinators, a themed herb garden is a great way to bring your passions to life.

    For more information on selecting herbs or how to grow herbs in your garden or home, stop by your local SummerWinds Nursery today and let our Trusted Garden Advisors help you design an herb garden to suit your needs.

    Whether you’re a novice gardener or an expert, At SummerWinds, We Guarantee Success!