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As Minnesotans, we know just how short summer can feel. For most of the year, we make do with grocery store greens—then eagerly wait for the season when we can step outside and snip fresh herbs for the grill, a salad, or a simple weeknight dinner.

At Sunnyside, we believe herbs are one of the most rewarding things you can grow. They’re approachable, productive, and endlessly useful—whether you’re cooking for a crowd or garnishing a glass of lemonade.

Planning Your Perfect Herb Garden

Most herbs thrive in full sun and well-draining soil, making them ideal for garden beds, raised planters, or containers near the kitchen. Group herbs with similar light and water needs together, and don’t be afraid to mix beauty with function—many herbs are just as lovely as they are flavorful.

Below, we’re sharing basic care tips and favorite pairings for some of our most-loved culinary herbs, so you can plan a garden that works as beautifully as it tastes.

Classic Kitchen Herbs

Thyme

• Care: Full sun; sandy, well-draining soil
• Pairs well with: Beef, chicken, lamb, fish, potatoes, tomatoes, soups, lentils
• A hardworking herb that thrives in heat and drought, thyme is a staple for savory dishes and summer grilling.

Rosemary

• Care: Full sun to part sun; well-drained soil
• Pairs well with: Chicken, lamb, pork, potatoes, mushrooms, citrus, salmon
• Fragrant and bold, rosemary adds structure to containers and depth to roasted dishes.

Basil

• Care: Full sun; moist, well-draining soil
• Pairs well with: Tomatoes, pasta, pesto, pizza, salads, olive oil, chicken
• A summer essential—pinch often to encourage bushy growth and endless harvests.

Parsley

• Care: Full sun to partial shade; loamy, moist soil
• Pairs well with: Fish, poultry, pasta, potatoes, lemon, vegetables
• Fresh, bright, and versatile—parsley elevates everything it touches.

Herbs with Bold Personality

Sage

• Care: Full sun; sandy or loamy soil
• Pairs well with: Pork, chicken, squash, pasta, butter, vegetables
• Earthy and aromatic, sage brings warmth to fall-forward dishes even in summer.

Tarragon

• Care: Full sun to part sun; sandy, loamy soil
• Pairs well with: Chicken, eggs, fish, mushrooms, potatoes, tomatoes
• A classic French herb with a delicate anise flavor—perfect for sauces and salads.

Chives

• Care: Full sun; rich, well-draining soil
• Pairs well with: Eggs, potatoes, soups, salads, fish
• Mild and oniony, chives are one of the easiest herbs to grow and use daily.

Fresh & Unexpected Favorites

Cilantro

• Care: Full sun to part sun; moist, well-draining soil
• Pairs well with: Salsas, rice, avocado, chicken, fish, yogurt
• Best grown in succession for continuous harvest, especially in cooler weather.

Mint

• Care: Full sun to part shade; moist, well-draining soil
• Pairs well with: Fruit, lamb, cocktails, desserts, yogurt
• Refreshing and vigorous—plant mint in containers to keep it contained.

Fennel

• Care: Full sun; well-draining soil
• Pairs well with: Fish, citrus, sausage, tomatoes, olive oil
• Both ornamental and edible, fennel adds texture to the garden and brightness to the plate.

Marjoram & Savory

• Care: Full sun; well-draining soil
• Pairs well with: Vegetables, poultry, beans, soups
• Gentle, herbaceous flavors that shine in simple, seasonal cooking.

Growing Tips for Early Season Success

If you’re planting early, keep an eye on the forecast. Herbs are hardy, but a surprise cold snap can cause damage. Keep frost blankets, old sheets, or newspaper on hand to cover plants overnight—and remember to remove coverings in the morning.

Grow Flavor All Season Long

There’s nothing quite like stepping outside and harvesting exactly what you need—fresh, fragrant, and grown by you. Herbs are one of the easiest ways to elevate everyday meals and make the most of our Minnesota summers. We carry them all season long!

Stop by Sunnyside Gardens to explore our wide selection of herbs and get personalized advice for your garden. Let’s make this a season full of flavor.