Grow Herbs in Small Spaces: Easy DIY Vertical Herb Garden

Are you dreaming of fresh herbs at your fingertips but limited in space? A DIY vertical herb garden is the perfect solution!

A wooden ladder repurposed into a vertical herb garden. The ladder sits on a wooden deck with several potted plants on its rungs.

This project utilizes vertical space, transforming an old ladder into a beautiful vertical herb planter. Not only will you add a touch of green and visual interest to your outdoor space, but you’ll also enjoy the benefits of growing your own fresh herbs throughout the season.

Why Choose a Vertical Herb Garden?

There are many reasons to consider a vertical herb garden:

Space-Saving Solution: Vertical gardening is a game-changer for small spaces. This project utilizes vertical space, maximizing your front porch, or balcony.
Fresh Herbs Anytime: No more grocery store runs for forgotten herbs! With your own vertical herb garden, fresh ingredients will be readily available.
Easy to Care For: Many vertical garden options are designed for easy watering and drainage, simplifying plant care.

An old wooden ladder has been repurposed as a planter for various herbs in terracotta pots. The ladder is displayed on a deck.

A stack of terra cotta pots that will be filled with herbs.

What You’ll Need

The beauty of this project lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Upcycled Ladder: An old step ladder works perfectly.
Drill and Bit: This is for creating drainage holes in your pots if they don’t already have them.
Terra Cotta Pots (or Alternative Containers): Choose pots that fit snugly on the ladder rungs.
Potting Mix: Select a good quality potting soil.
Your Favorite Herbs: Basil, mint, parsley, oregano, thyme, and chives are all a great choice for a variety of herbs.
Paint (Optional): Give your ladder a fresh coat of paint to complement your outdoor space.

Rosemary plant planted in a terra cotta pot.

A grouping of terra cotta pots at the base of an old wooden ladder that is displaying a vertical herb garden.

Step by Step

Prep the Ladder: Give your ladder a good scrub with soapy water to remove dirt and grime. If you choose to paint it, select an outdoor-suitable paint and apply a few coats once the ladder is dry.
Drainage Holes: If your pots don’t have drainage holes, use your drill and a bit to drill a few small holes in the bottom. This is crucial to prevent root rot.
Pot Up Your Herbs: Fill your chosen containers with a potting mix and plant your herbs.
Find the Perfect Spot: Choose a location that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. South-facing walls are ideal, but east or west-facing walls can also work with proper planning.

A rustic vertical herb garden created from a repurposed wooden ladder. Terra cotta pots filled with various herbs rest on the ladder rungs.

Bonus Tips for Growing Herbs in Your Vertical Garden

Personalize your creation with these finishing touches to make your vertical herb garden truly special:

Labeling: Use small plant markers or chalkboard labels to identify your herbs, making it easy to find exactly what you need.
Pot Size: When selecting pots, consider the mature size of your chosen herbs. Choose pots with enough room for your herbs to grow comfortably throughout the season in your vertical planter.
Watering: Water regularly, but avoid overwatering. A water meter can help you determine when your plants need a drink.
Fertilizer: For healthy growth, use a balanced fertilizer occasionally.
Harvesting: Regularly harvest your herbs to encourage bushier growth. The more you harvest, the more your herbs will produce, allowing you to enjoy a continuous supply of fresh flavor throughout the season.

A rustic wooden ladder repurposed into a vertical herb garden. Terracotta pots filled with various herbs sit on the ladder rungs. The ladder leans against a wooden deck bathed in sunlight.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, an easy DIY vertical herb garden is a fantastic project. It’s budget-friendly, requires minimal tools, and provides fresh herbs throughout the season.

So, grab that old ladder and get ready to transform it into an easy DIY vertical herb garden.

A vertical herb garden made from a repurposed wooden ladder. Several terracotta pots are hung on the ladder rungs, filled with various herbs.

About the Author

Sarah Blankenship | Rocky Hedge Farm

Sarah is the author behind Rocky Hedge Farm. She is passionate about simple, healthy recipes, cast iron cooking, gardening, and remodeling her manufactured home. She shares her experiences and knowledge to inspire others. Go here to read her story, “Living a Life of Contentment and Joy: Simple Living at Rocky Hedge Farm.” If you want to message Sarah, visit her contact page here.