446 - Overwintering herbs indoors and out

The Beginner's Garden with Jill McSheehy

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11d ago 27:36

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Worried about what happens to your herbs when frost arrives? In this episode you'll learn which herbs survive winter outside, which to bring indoors, and simple steps to protect them. We'll cover pruning timing, zone hardiness, and indoor care so you go into winter with confidence. Keywords: overwinter herbs, herb winter care, pruning.

live workshop: 5-Day Garden Audit + Optional Live Q&A Reflect on your season and plan smarter for next year. Join the free 5-day email audit; add the live workshop on Thursday, November 6 for $15. https://journeywithjill.net/audit

free download: Herbs Quick Reference Chart One-page, printable cheat sheet for growing and using popular herbs. http://journeywithjill.net/herbchart

Key Takeaways

Know your herb's life cycle (annual, biennial, perennial) and zone limits before winter.
Stop heavy pruning 4–6 weeks before first frost; save shaping for spring.
Cold + wet kills faster than cold alone—prioritize drainage and light mulch after first freeze.
For borderline zones, protect rosemary from wind; use frost cloth or natural boughs.
Bringing herbs indoors? Use bright light, let soil dry slightly between waterings, and check for pests.

Chapters

00:00 – What to expect in winter
03:00 – Rosemary: tender perennial tips
07:00 – Sage: prune in early spring
09:50 – Thyme: divide and overwinter inside
12:20 – Oregano: harvest low before winter
14:30 – Mint & lemon balm: dies back, returns
16:50 – Chives: freeze better than dry
18:40 – Perennial recap & zones
21:50 – Parsley (biennial): winter + spring bolt
24:30 – Cilantro: winter star, bolts in heat
26:40 – Basil/dill: bring in or replant next year
28:40 – General winter herb care
31:00 – Final reminders

Resource Links

Herbs Quick Reference Chart (free): http://journeywithjill.net/herbchart
Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Podcast archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/

Sponsor(s) for this Episode

Organic Rev — I use Rev at transplant and before moving herbs indoors to support roots. Use code JILL10 for 10% off: http://journeywithjill.net/organicrev. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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