Why grow culinary herbs from seed?
Fresh culinary herbs transform home cooking. Growing your own herbs from seed gives you year-round access to varieties not always available at grocery stores — Thai basil, lemon thyme, chocolate mint, Italian flat-leaf parsley. PPS curates a selection of premium culinary herb seeds suited to indoor windowsills, balcony pots and outdoor herb beds in Canadian climates.
Best culinary herbs for Canadian growers
Hardy perennial herbs (thyme, oregano, sage, chives) survive Canadian winters and return year after year. Annual herbs (basil, cilantro, dill) need replanting each spring but produce abundantly all season. Mediterranean herbs (rosemary, lavender) thrive indoors and in pots that can be brought inside during winter. Tender herbs grow well indoors under standard LED lights.
Indoor herb growing in Canada
Canadians can grow fresh herbs year-round indoors. A sunny south-facing window with 6+ hours of light supports basil, parsley, cilantro and mint. For darker apartments, an inexpensive LED grow light produces excellent results. Many cannabis growers report converting unused tent space to herb growing during off-cycle periods.
How to grow herb seeds successfully
Most herb seeds germinate easily at 18-22C with consistent moisture. Direct-sow outdoors after last frost or start indoors 4-6 weeks before transplanting. Herbs prefer well-draining soil and don't need heavy feeding — over-fertilizing reduces essential oil concentration and flavor. Pinch flowers to encourage leaf production.
Annual vs perennial herbs
Annuals (basil, cilantro, dill) live one season and need replanting. Perennials (thyme, oregano, sage, mint, chives) return each year and require less work over time. Plant both — annuals for the freshest summer flavor, perennials for reliable year-round availability.
Frequently asked questions
Can I grow herbs indoors year-round in Canada?
Yes. A sunny window or LED grow light supports basil, parsley, cilantro, mint, thyme and chives indoors all year.
Which herbs are perennial in Canada?
Thyme, oregano, sage, mint, chives, lavender (zone 5+), and rosemary in sheltered locations or pots brought inside for winter.
How long do herb seeds take to germinate?
Most culinary herbs germinate in 7-14 days. Slow germinators: parsley (2-4 weeks), rosemary (3-4 weeks). Fast germinators: basil, cilantro, dill (5-10 days).
Are PPS herb seeds organic?
Many varieties in our herb catalog are heirloom and organic. Check individual product listings for certification details.
Should I let my herbs flower?
No. Pinch flower buds to keep herbs producing leaves. Flowering signals the end of the productive cycle and reduces flavor quality.