Best Outdoor Herb Garden Planters for Patios and Balconies
Fresh herbs near the kitchen door make cooking so much better. Patios and balconies are perfect spots for herb gardens — but the pots need to be tough enough to handle sun, rain, and wind.
The best outdoor herb garden planters are durable, offer excellent drainage, provide enough soil volume, and look attractive.
Important Features for Outdoor Herb Planters
Herbs have specific needs — the right pot makes all the difference.
| Feature | Why Herbs Need It | Best Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Drainage Holes | Herbs die in soggy soil | Multiple large holes + feet to elevate |
| Size | Herbs need room to grow | 10–14 inches wide/deep, or long troughs |
| Material | Must withstand sun, rain, heat, cold | Recycled resin, fiberglass, or metal |
| UV Protection | Prevents fading in strong sun | Built-in UV shield |
| Stability | Wind can tip over light pots | Wide base + good weight when filled |
| Style | Should complement patio furniture | Simple colors and modern shapes |
Best Herbs for Outdoor Planters
These herbs perform especially well in pots on patios and balconies.
| Herb | Why It Does Well in Pots | Good Pot Size | Sun and Care Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basil | Loves warmth and steady water | 10–12 inch | Full sun, pinch tops often |
| Mint | Grows fast — pot contains spread | 10–14 inch | Part sun, keep moist |
| Rosemary | Handles dry soil once established | 12–14 inch | Full sun, excellent drainage |
| Thyme | Small and low-growing | 8–12 inch | Full sun, likes dry soil |
| Oregano | Tough and spreading | 10–12 inch | Full sun, cut back often |
| Chives | Grows upright, pretty flowers | 8–10 inch | Full sun, cut regularly to regrow |
Our Top Pick: GreenShip 27-Inch Tall Square Outdoor Planter
The GreenShip 27-Inch Tall Square Outdoor Planter stands out as one of the best choices for herb gardens on patios and balconies.
Why it's excellent:
- 27 inches tall — Provides plenty of soil depth for larger herbs or small shrubs
- Strong black finish — Modern and clean look
- Extremely durable and weather-resistant — Made from 100% recycled resin + stone powder (won't crack)
- Built-in UV protection — Color stays vibrant in sun
- Eco-friendly yet lightweight and sturdy
- Good drainage holes — Prevents root rot
- Elegant design — Hand-carved bands add a special touch
Perfect for rosemary, bay leaf, or mixed herb combinations. It adds both height and style to any space.
See our self-watering collection for even easier maintenance.
Simple Tips for Herb Planters on Patios & Balconies
- Choose pots 10–14 inches wide for most herbs
- Place in full sun (6+ hours daily) for the best flavor
- Use well-draining soil (mix in sand or perlite)
- Water when the top inch feels dry
- Harvest or cut herbs regularly — keeps plants bushy and productive
The right outdoor herb garden planter makes growing fresh herbs simple and beautiful. Your patio or balcony will look (and smell) amazing.
Ready to start? Consider the GreenShip 27-Inch Tall Square Outdoor Planter today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What size planter for outdoor herbs? 10–14 inches wide for single herbs; larger or longer troughs for mixed groups.
Why is drainage so important for herbs outside? Rain can quickly drown roots. Good holes keep them healthy and alive.
Can tall planters work for herbs? Yes — they provide deep soil for plants like rosemary and add nice vertical style to patios.