For many RVers, convenience is the name of the game when it comes to meal prep. Premade, quick meals you can pull out and eat. No muss, no fuss. But if you love flavorful meals, delicious scents, and the ultimate convenience, you may want to add an RV-friendly herb garden to your list of must-haves.
Having fresh herbs on hand is a game-changer for meals, health, and even the overall coziness of your space. That said, whether you’re living in your RV full-time or are more of a weekend warrior, space is always at a premium. That means you’ll need to be selective and strategic about how you grow your herbs.
The good news? With a few smart solutions, you can cultivate a thriving herb garden no matter where you journey!
Why an Herb Garden Is a Good Idea
An herb garden is one of the easiest ways to elevate your RV lifestyle! Having fresh herbs on hand means no more relying on store-bought dried herbs or searching for fresh ones at every stop. Even the simplest meals can taste gourmet with the addition of basil, rosemary, or thyme, turning a basic dish into something special.
Beyond flavor, herbs offer incredible health benefits—mint, oregano, and thyme, for example, appear to have antimicrobial properties and aid digestion. Plus, they’re packed with antioxidants.
Growing your own herbs can also save you big money. Fresh store-bought herbs can be so expensive. And they so often wilt before you’ve had a chance to use the full lot.
Caring for plants, even small ones, is also a fantastic stress reliever, providing a sense of calm and connection to nature. And let’s not forget the aesthetic benefit—having a few green plants in your RV instantly makes the space feel more inviting and homier. A little greenery goes a long way!
Choosing the Best Herbs for an RV Garden
Some herbs thrive better in an RV setup than others. Here are the best picks:
🌿 Low-Maintenance Herbs: Basil, thyme, rosemary, oregano, chives, mint (keep in its own container), parsley.
🌿Multi-Use Herbs: Cilantro (for salsa), dill (for fish and pickling), lavender (for scent and tea).
🌿 Best Perennials vs. Annuals: Perennials like rosemary, thyme, and oregano last year-round, while basil and cilantro will need regular replanting.
Once you have gotten into the routine of having an herbal garden, feel free to play around with other favorite herbs.
Top Tips for a Successful RV Herb Garden
Creating an RV herb garden doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning and the right setup, you can enjoy fresh herbs without taking up too much space. From compact planters to vertical systems, there’s a way to make it work in your RV.
Here are some smart tips to help you get started and keep your herbs thriving on the road:
- Choose Compact Containers: Small pots, stackable planters, or wall-mounted options save space.
- Go Vertical: Hanging planters, magnetic spice tins with soil, or tiered plant racks use minimal counter space.
- Employ Window Space: Suction cup herb holders or a small window box inside (or outside if you’ll be parked for a bit) keep herbs happy.
- Secure for Travel: Use non-slip mats, Velcro strips, or travel-proof hanging planters to keep herbs safe on the move.
- Go Hydroponic: A small hydroponic system is a mess-free, space-saving alternative for herb gardening in an RV.
- Use Multi-Purpose Containers: Reuse mason jars, repurposed spice containers, or even old-school coffee cans for a vintage and eco-friendly touch.
Depending on your available space and travel style, consider these planter options:
- Magnetic Spice Tins: Stick them to a metal surface for a tiny but effective herb garden.
- Hanging Fabric Planters: Perfect for vertical gardening on walls or the back of cabinet doors.
- Self-Watering Pots: Help regulate moisture levels, reducing the need for constant watering.
- Over-the-Sink Planters: Make use of otherwise unused space while ensuring proper drainage.
- Foldable or Collapsible Planters: Ideal for storing away on travel days.
Keeping your herbs safe while on the move is crucial. Here are some of our top tips:
- Use Velcro Strips or Bungee Cords: Secure planters to shelves or walls to prevent them from tipping.
- Place Herbs in the Sink on Travel Days: A quick and easy way to keep them from toppling.
- Use Hanging Organizers: Pocket shoe organizers can hold small herb pots.
- Opt for a Roll-Up Fabric Planter: Easy to move and store when needed.
Best Herb Combinations for Small Spaces
Choosing the right herb combinations not only saves space but also ensures your plants thrive together. Some herbs have similar water and sunlight needs, making them perfect companions.
For a Mediterranean mix, consider pairing rosemary, thyme, and oregano, as they all prefer drier soil and plenty of sunlight.
If you love Italian cuisine, basil, parsley, and oregano make an excellent trio, adding fresh flavor to pasta, pizzas, and sauces.
For those who enjoy soothing teas, a combination of mint, chamomile, and lavender creates a fragrant and relaxing blend—just be sure to keep mint in its own container as it tends to spread aggressively.
If you’re a fan of Mexican flavors, cilantro, oregano, and chives are fantastic choices, ideal for spicing up tacos, salsas, and guacamole. By thoughtfully pairing herbs that complement each other in both growth habits and culinary use, you can maximize your RV garden’s potential without taking up extra space.
Caring for Your RV Herb Garden
Taking care of your RV herb garden is simple with a few mindful practices. Since RVs have limited space and often experience temperature fluctuations, ensuring your herbs get the right amount of sunlight is key. Position them near a window for natural light or supplement with LED grow lights if needed.
Watering is another crucial factor—RVs can dry out plants faster due to airflow and heating, so regularly check soil moisture to keep herbs hydrated without overwatering. Regular pruning and harvesting will encourage growth and prevent your plants from becoming too leggy or overgrown.
Finally, securing taller herbs with soft ties or small stakes will help prevent damage from movement while driving.
With these simple care techniques, your RV-friendly herb garden will stay fresh, vibrant, and ready to enhance your meals no matter where you travel.
