How to Overwinter Herbs
Overwintering herbs means matching each herb to its cold tolerance: protect hardy perennial herbs outdoors, bring tender herbs inside before frost, and replace plants that naturally complete their life cycle in one season. The key is to know your local winter conditions and avoid keeping plants too wet or too warm for their needs.
Hardy perennial herbs commonly include chives, thyme, sage, oregano, mint, tarragon, and some lavenders, though cold tolerance differs by variety and region. In the ground, plant them in well-drained soil and avoid heavy late-season nitrogen that encourages tender new growth. After the ground begins to freeze, a loose 2- to 4-inch layer of clean straw, pine needles, or shredded leaves can buffer root-zone temperature swings.
Rosemary is only reliably winter-hardy in milder regions, and many gardeners elsewhere overwinter it indoors or treat it as seasonal. Before the first expected frost, move container rosemary to a bright, cool location where it receives several hours of direct light or supplemental light. Water when the upper portion of the potting mix has dried, and make sure the container drains freely.
Tender herbs such as basil are damaged by chilly conditions and should be brought in well before frost if you want to keep them. Basil generally needs warm temperatures and strong light indoors, while a bright window alone may be insufficient during short winter days. Take clean cuttings from healthy plants in late summer as a backup, since compact cuttings can be easier to manage indoors than large garden plants.
For any herb moving indoors, inspect foliage and stems closely for insects before bringing it inside. Rinse off debris, remove damaged leaves, and isolate newly moved plants from houseplants for a short observation period. Good spacing, clean pots, and watering at the soil line help reduce pest and disease issues without routine pesticide use.
Container herbs need extra protection because roots in pots experience colder temperatures than roots in the ground. In areas with sustained freezing weather, move pots into an unheated but protected space such as a garage or shed only if the herb can tolerate those temperatures and still receives occasional checks. Group pots together and insulate around, not over, containers while maintaining drainage.
Do not prune heavily just before winter. Remove dead, diseased, or broken growth, but save major shaping for spring when new growth begins. Harvest modestly from indoor plants, and give outdoor perennials time to settle rather than repeatedly cutting them during cold weather.
Frequently asked questions
Which herbs can stay outside over winter?
Chives, thyme, sage, oregano, mint, and tarragon often can, depending on the variety and local winter lows. Good drainage and winter mulch after the soil freezes improve their chances.
Should I bring all potted herbs indoors?
Bring tender herbs indoors before cold weather. Hardy herbs may remain outside with protection in suitable climates, but containers need more insulation than in-ground plants.
Can I keep herbs alive in a kitchen window?
Some can survive there if the window is very bright and temperatures are stable, but many need supplemental light in winter. Avoid placing foliage directly against cold glass or near heating vents.
General guidance for US home gardens. Conditions vary by region and season; check with your local Cooperative Extension office for site-specific advice. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.