Fruits, vegetables and herbs

Fruits, vegetables and herbs

Growing plants you can put on the table can be very fun and rewarding. Look for varieties of food crops that will be fun and successful to work with, as well as some that may be an adventure.

Small fruits

Berries and grapes are ideally suited to many of Idaho’s growing areas. Regardless of where you live in the state, there are small fruits that you can grow successfully. As with all other crops, however, success largely depends on selecting varieties that are well adapted to your climate and soils.

Arbutus to grape

Arbutus

Also called the strawberry tree, arbutus grows an interesting small fruit that is edible and enjoyed by many. It requires well-drained acidic soil and is only somewhat cold hardy, so make sure you know your hardiness zone and soil before you consider this plant.

Blackberry

Blackberries are a delicious treat and native to parts of the pacific northwest. Blackberries are suited to Idaho’s warmer growing regions. They may require extra frost precautions and soil amendments in other areas.

Blueberry

Blueberries are among the most popular fruits for home and market gardening. Growing blueberries in many regions of Idaho can be nearly impossible. Make sure you know your soil pH that blueberry needs before you take on this adventure plant.

Boysenberry

The boysenberry is a cross between raspberry, blackberry, dewberry and loganberry. It is a large berry similar to blackberries and can be used like raspberries or raspberries.

Plant disease: boysenberry, PNW handbook

Cloudberry

Cloudberry is a small berry native to the northern regions of the world in colder climates, including the northern U.S. and Canada. It produces small raspberry like berries that can be eaten fresh, baked into treats or preserved as jams and jellies.

Cloudberry, Purdue University

Currant

Currants are native to the northern hemisphere and come in several different colors. The most common currants are the red and black currants. Currants are enjoyed fresh, in baked and canned goods, and dried.

Elderberry

Elderberries grow on large bushes to small trees and are native to many parts of Idaho. It is an extremely versatile plant — both the flowers and the berries are harvested for food use. Look for the clusters of tiny yellowish-white flowers in the spring.

Goji

Goji is a small, vibrant red fruit known for its super fruit properties. This fruit can be grown with some success in Idaho but will require a watchful eye. A close relative to tomatillos and tomatoes.

Gooseberry

Gooseberries are small, somewhat tart berries, that are a favorite for jams and jellies. They are somewhat easy to grow and can tolerate the harshest Idaho conditions.

Grape

Grapes are an immensely popular fruit crop with gardeners worldwide, and Idaho gardeners are no exception. Idaho has commercial table and wine grape industries, located mostly in southwestern Idaho and, to a lesser degree, in and around Lewiston in northern Idaho.

Hawberry to strawberry

Hawberry

Hawberries are native to most regions of Idaho and grown on hawthorn bushes. Hawberries are the size of a small grape, deep red and very firm. They are most desired for jelly making and baking.

Honeyberry

Honeberry, also called blue honeysuckle or haskap, is a large, oblong blue berry with a sweet taste. Bushes can be small to quite large for a berry bush. The plants are very hardy and will produce berries for several weeks. The berries have a thick skin making them less susceptible to damage.

Huckleberry

Huckleberries grow naturally in many parts of Idaho. These tiny, tart berries are coveted for their unique taste. They are difficult and laborious to acquire from nature leaving many to wonder if they can grow huckleberries at home. Huckleberries are an adventure plant as they are very finicky and tend to prefer a certain elevation range as well as acidic soils. However, varieties that will tolerate dry, slightly alkaline soils and valley conditions do exist and may survive in the home garden.

Jostaberry

Jostaberry is a cross between black currants and gooseberries. Jostaberries look very similar to black currants with a very dark color and have a similar flavor to both berries. They can be enjoyed fresh or in preserves.

Kiwi

Kiwi are a unique tropical fruit that you can, in fact, grow in Idaho. Hardy kiwi vines will grow in many regions of Idaho, and the more traditional kiwi will grow in the warmest parts of Idaho.

Loganberry and Tayberry

Both berries are crosses of blackberry and raspberry. Loganberries have a darker color while tayberries taste slightly sweeter. Follow recommendations for blackberries and raspberries when growing these berries.

Mulberry

Mulberries look like a long, skinny blackberry but are very sweet. They grow on trees that can reach great heights. Mulberries are a favorite for fresh eating, syrups, jams and pies. Songbirds also love these delectable berries.

Raspberry

Raspberries are among the most popular and easy to grow small fruits for Idaho gardeners. Depending on the variety, the plants adapt well to a range of soil conditions and can be quite cold hardy. Raspberries also come in many varieties. Beware of the many diseases that plague raspberries in Idaho conditions.

Rosehip

Roses are well known for their beautiful and fragrant blossoms, but roses are also grown for their fruit. Rose hips can reach the size of a golf ball and are loaded with good nutrients. Rose hips are one of the oldest super foods, used by Native Americans and other groups for their healing properties. Rose hips are still found today in health food teas and supplements.

Rowanberry

Rowanberry is the bright orange berry of the mountain ash tree. Known for its unique, bitter taste. Rowan is mostly used as jams and chutneys that accompany game. Rowanberries can be mixed with other berries to make jams or jellies with a more pleasant flavor. Rowanberries are high in tannins and are not usually eaten fresh.

Serviceberry

Serviceberries are small purple or blue berries, looking similar to a blueberry or small crabapple. They have a pleasant taste and are enjoyed for juice and jams. This may be a good substitute for growing blueberries for those living in regions of Idaho where the soil is too alkaline to grow blueberries.

Strawberry

Strawberries are one of, if not the most, adaptable fruit crops in the world. These tremendously popular berries are grown from the tropics to near the Arctic Circle. Besides their appeal as fresh fruits, strawberries can be easily processed into jams, jellies, pastries, syrups, fruit leathers and many other tasty treats.

Related resources

Preservation

Tree fruits

Growing fruit trees can be a wonderfully rewarding process. In Idaho, you must make sure to select varieties that will be successful in your climate and soil type.

Apples to pomegranate

Apples

Apples are among the most cold-hardy tree fruits and are well adapted to many Idaho locations. Thousands of cultivars (cultivated varieties) are available and a wide selection of rootstocks makes it possible to grow the trees large or small on many different soils.

Apricots

Apricot trees are very hardy and produce an abundance of fruit when there are no late frosts. Apricots can survive most places in Idaho.

Cherries

Sweet cherries are only marginally cold hardy and the buds can be injured at temperatures near -20°F. Production over the long term is challenging in northern Idaho and questionable, at best, in central and southeastern Idaho. Sweet cherries are grown commercially in some small pockets of western Idaho.

Figs

An adventure fruit for Idaho growers which will only survive in the warmest zones of Idaho. Look for varieties that are cold hardy and ripen quickly.

Nuts

Despite the colder climates in Idaho, a variety of tree nuts can be grown and enjoyed in Idaho. Know your USDA zone and soil type before selecting a variety.

Peaches and nectarines

Mature trees grow to about 20 feet tall but can be kept smaller with pruning and training. The trees bear fruit three to four years after planting. Peach trees bloom early and the buds are easily damaged by frost. (Nectarines are simply fuzzless peach varieties.)

Pears

Two distinct types of pears varieties are available: standard and Asian. Standard pears can be grown in many places in Idaho. More tender Asian pears won’t perform as well. Look for varieties that do well in your conditions.

Persimmon

A unique fruit with large seeds and orange Jell-O like flavor and consistency. An adventure fruit for Idaho growers, this tree will only survive in the warmest zones of Idaho.

Freezing persimmons, National Center for Home Preservation

Plums and prunes

European varieties of plums can be quite hardy and will grow well in most places in Idaho. Many enjoy their brightly colored blossoms in spring as well.

Pomegranate

Enjoy the rich color and unique texture of this exotic fruit from your own backyard. Pomegranates grow on bushes and could be grown in a high tunnel or greenhouse. An adventure fruit for Idaho growers, this tree will only survive in the warmest zones of Idaho.

Related resources

Vegetables

Students harvesting at the Soil Stewards Farm

Growing vegetables can be very rewarding as you experience eating the fruits of your labor. Many vegetables do very well in Idaho climates and with the right care, will produce very well.

Beans and peas

Strawberry

Edible flowers

Fruits, vegetables and herbs

Growing plants you can put on the table can be very fun and rewarding. Look for varieties of food crops that will be fun and successful to work with, as well as some that may be an adventure.

Fruit vegetables

Cantaloupe

This small, orange-meat melon grows very well in Idaho and loves the sandy, well-drained soil of certain regions of Idaho. Seeds should be started indoors for the greatest success.

Cucumber

Cucumbers are a favorite home garden plant, from gherkins to pickles to sumptuous sandwich cucumbers. Cucumbers can tolerate many different growing conditions but are very sensitive to frost. Consider growing them on a trellis system in small or confined garden spaces.

Eggplant

Eggplant is a bright, colorful, fun vegetable to add to your garden. There are many varieties adapted to different growing environments. They are very sensitive to frost and like lots of sunshine.

Gourds

Gourds come in many shapes and sizes and can be grown for many different uses. They require a very long growing season with lots of sun. They need a long season to ripen and develop that tough skin characteristic to gourds.

So many gourds, so little time, Utah State University (pdf)

Ground cherry

Ground cherries are closely related to tomatillos but have a fruity taste. Some varieties have been compared in taste to strawberries or pineapple. They can be used as a fruit or vegetable.

Honeydew

Honeydew melons are small with a sweet green meat. Plant seeds outdoors when temperatures are cooler but use frost protection to prevent tender shoots from becoming damaged.

Okra

Okra is small, spiny and fuzzy vegetable full of seeds and a gelatinous goo. Loved for its texture and flavor when added to southern dishes, many love to grow okra in the home garden. Okra will need special care in cooler regions of Idaho to extend the growing season long enough.

Pepper

Peppers come in thousands of different varieties and are used all over the world in different ways. Whether you are looking for a sweet, snacking pepper, a pretty-colored bell pepper to spruce up or stir fry, or you'd like to experiment growing some of the hottest peppers known to man, you will enjoy growing peppers in your home garden. Peppers are well adapted to Idaho climates, especially combined with some season Extension techniques, and most varieties will perform well across the state.

How to transplant peppers into the garden (video)

Pumpkin

Pumpkins are one of the oldest known native vegetables to the Americas and have been a symbol of prosperity to Americans for many years. They are grown to be eaten, baked into pies and other goods or carved with scary faces to decorate in the fall. Some may even try to grow a prize-winning giant pumpkin.

Summer squash

Summer squash are squash that are generally harvested throughout the summer when they are smaller and more tender. They mature more quickly than winter squash and pumpkins and have different flavor, texture and uses.

Tomatillo

This unique fruit grown on a vine in little husks is popular mostly in Mexican cuisine. Tomatillos can grow almost anywhere, in fact, become quite weedy when not carefully controlled. They need rich soil, plenty of spacing for the large vining plants and are intolerant of frost.

Tomato

Almost everyone would love to grow the perfect giant, red, plump and juicy tomato in their own garden. There are many different methods for doing so, including those for limited space and soil.

Watermelon

Watermelon is a juicy sweet vegetable that is popular all over America, and you can grow watermelon in Idaho too.

Winter squash

Winter squash, including pumpkins, are a delicious and colorful fun vegetable for the garden. They need a long growing season and frost protection in the fall while they ripen.

Grains

Amaranth

Also called “pigweed” in Idaho and generally considered a weed, Amaranth has culinary significance in some cultures who enjoy its quinoa-like seeds and plump stems. Use caution when growing amaranth so that you don’t let it become a weed for you or your neighbors. Consider growing quinoa as an alternative.

Corn

Technically a grain, corn is ironically a favorite vegetable of Americans. Corn grows very well in the backyard, and several different plantings can give you corn throughout most of the later summer. Be careful to select varieties that do well together as combining certain varieties, such as an Indian corn with a sweet corn, can give you a less desirable product.

Quinoa

Quinoa is quickly becoming one of the most popular grains in America. But did you know that you can grow this grain right here in Idaho? Make sure to select varieties suited to your area and soil type.

Leaves and stems

Arugula

This fun-looking salad additive can grow in a variety of conditions and can be a fun addition to your garden. Can be grown in partial shade and may do best if planted in late summer or early fall as a fall crop.

Arugula, Utah State University (pdf)

Asparagus

Asparagus is a unique, but tasty plant in which you eat the tender first sprigs that come up in the spring. Asparagus is very versatile and can grow almost anywhere. It does like the cool temperatures and once the heat of the summer begins, it will bolt and won’t be worth eating anymore.

Asparagus in the garden, Utah State University (pdf)

Bok choy

Bok choy, sometimes called Chinese cabbage, is a tender, moist alternative for cabbage or other greens. It produces a bulb-type part of the plant at the bottom with dark green leaves at the top. Bok choy can grow in many conditions but is sensitive to frost.

Growing Chinese cabbage, University of Minnesota

Cabbage

One of the most used vegetables around the world, many varieties of cabbage can be grown right here in Idaho. Cabbage prefers cooler weather but enjoys our long summer days to reach a large full size. Keep them well watered and fertilized all summer long.

Celery

Celery is grown both as a seasoning and as a low-calorie healthy snack. Celery prefers cooler temperatures and be sure to give it plenty of water to avoid bitterness.

Chard

Similar to spinach leaves, but much larger and with stems in many bright colors, chard is a fun and tasty addition to the garden. Chard does well in long, hot Idaho summer days. Can be enjoyed fresh, steamed or boiled or substituted for spinach.

Chive

Chive stems are a tasty addition to many meals. Narrow green stems supporting purple fluffy flowers add color and texture to the garden. Chives thrive in almost any condition and can be grown indoors or outdoors.

Collards

A group of looser-leafed brassica greens, collards are a popular served as a side dish. They grow in many conditions and are not difficult to maintain.

Growing collards and kale in home gardens, University of Minnesota

Cress

Small, tender green leaves with a unique shamrock-like shape often grow right in the water. This plant requires special growing conditions and plenty of water but is a delicious addition to a salad or side dish.

Endive

A green, leafy vegetable similar to lettuce, endive can be a fun substitute. Leaves can become bitter in high heat or with lack of water. Sow the plant early to avoid the hottest part of summer. A second planting may be possible in fall in some areas.

Fennel

Known for its plump bulb and feathery leaves, fennel is grown as a vegetable (bulb) and as an herb or spice (leaves and seeds). Fennel can also be grown for the pure aesthetic of its unique form. Fennel adds a licorice-like flavor to dishes when cooked.

Kale

Quickly becoming a popular salad green, kale is a fun, interesting looking plant to try in your garden. Kale will grow in the spring or the fall and will do well most places in Idaho.

Leek

Many prefer to use leeks in place of onions in their cooking for their more sophisticated and delicate taste. Leeks are easy to grow, if you remember to give them plenty of water. They are very hardy and prefer cooler weather. Harvest them the year they are planted or wait until the second year.

Lettuce

An incredibly large variety of lettuces can be grown just about anywhere. They thrive in cooler temperatures (though they are susceptible to frost) and the heat of summer will make them bolt and leave you with bitter leaves. Look for varieties suited to your water availability and soil type. Consider a second planting in fall.

New Zealand spinach

An alternative to traditional spinach, New Zealand spinach is much less likely to bolt in the garden on a hot summer day. It is an edible close relative to marigolds.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a hardy plant that can be successful almost anywhere. These bright red stems are popular in baking dishes, especially paired with strawberries. Rhubarb is characterized by the stringy texture of the stems and its tart taste, but do not eat the leaves.

Scallion

Scallions are long necked onions with a small or skinny bulb, usually used for their greens or called green onions. Scallions grow quite well in Idaho conditions and can be harvested throughout late summer and fall.

Sorrel

Sorrel is a leafy green plant that looks somewhat similar to spinach. It can be used as a salad green and has a slight citrus taste to it. Use caution when planting sorrel as some varieties are noxious weeds and any variety can become weedy.

Growing sorrel in home gardens, University of Minnesota

Spinach

Spinach is a small plant with delicious tender leaves. Growing spinach can be as easy as planting a few seeds in a window pot. These tender little leaves like the cooler weather of Idaho springs and falls. Consider planting early in spring, then replanting as fall starts.

How to plant spinach (video)

Tatsoi

Tatsoi is a new vegetable to the Americas and is similar to bok choy. It grows very similarly to bok choy though it will grow a shorter clump of leaves that can be harvested and used in place of cabbage or bok choy.

Growing Chinese cabbage, University of Minnesota

Roots, bulbs and tubers

Miscellaneous

Fungus

There can be great adventure and great risk with growing mushrooms in the home garden. There are many different varieties of mushrooms that are adapted to nearly every climate in the world. Great care must be taken that spores or starts are purchased from a legitimate, reputable source. Always use care that you are harvesting only what you planted and when eating.

Sunflower

Grown for their beauty and for their seeds, sunflowers always add a spot of bright color to the garden. Many varieties of sunflowers will do well in Idaho. If growing giant sunflowers for seeds, consider starting seeds indoors earlier in the season.

Related resources

Herbs

Growing herbs can be fun and easy to add some flavor and color to life. Whether you want to enjoy blooms buzzing with bees and butterflies, fill your spice rack up from home or just enjoy a sprig of fresh mint in your favorite drink, growing herbs can be fun for everyone. Make sure to keep your expectations in line with your hardiness zone and know that while you can grow most herbs in Idaho, they may not grow as large or last through the winter like they do in other places.

This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a recommendation or an endorsement of any medical or health treatment.

Anise Hyssop to Ginger

Anise Hyssop

Anise Hyssop is a perennial herb (in most parts of Idaho) that many enjoy growing for the tall, blue-purple flowers and for the bees and birds they will bring to the garden. The plant can become very large for a small flowering plant and is a favorite in perennial beds and pollinator gardens.

Size — 2-4 feet tall, 1-3 feet wide
Light — Full sun
Water — Light or sandy soil, can't tolerate heavy soil
Soil pH — Neutral
Bloom time — Summer
Color — Blue, pink, purple, white
USDA Zone — 3-8

Basil

Basil is an annual plant and a favorite of many herb gardeners. It can be grown in the garden or in a container indoors. Basil is known for its smooth, oval leaves with their strong aroma and taste.

Size — 18-24 inches tall, 18 inches spread
Light — Full sun (may bolt less in partial shade)
Water — Moist, good drainage
Soil pH — Acidic — Alkaline
Pruning — You need to cut off any flowers or buds that appear on your basil plant for it to continue to produce the tender leaves desired for cooking. Once the plant successfully produces flowers and seeds, it will turn woody and die off.
USDA Zone — 10-11, Idaho Annual
Diseases — Plant disease: Basil, PNW handbooks

Bee balm

Bee Balm or Monarda is a perennial plant (zones 4 plus) and is popular for it’s brightly colored blooms. Many plant these flowers just for enjoyment or to attract bees and birds to the garden. Bee balm can also be used in teas or distilled as an oil for it’s scent.

Size — 2-4 feet tall, 2-3 feet spread
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Moist, good drainage to avoid powdery mildew
Soil pH — Acidic — neutral
Bloom time — Summer
Color — Pink, purple, red
Pruning — Dead heading or removing dead or dying blossoms can promote continuous blooming.
USDA Zone — 4-9, annual in cooler zones
Diseases — Plant disease: Monarda (bee balm), PNW handbooks

Borage

Borage is an annual herb with pretty purple-blue flowers. It has been cultivated for years for its medicinal properties, but also to be used as a garnish and decoration, both fresh and dried. Borage attracts bees with its purple-blue flowers. Be cautious to deadhead before seed drop if you don't want borage in the same spot next year.

Size — 1-3 feet tall, 9-18 inches spread
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Good drainage
Soil pH — Any
Bloom time — Summer
USDA Zone — 2-11

Burnet

Burnet is a perennial in zones 4-8, will be an annual in cooler zones. It is grown for its attractive foliage, fun flowers and edible leaves.

Size — 9-24 inches tall, will continue to spread, each plant can reach 1-2 feet wide
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Medium, good drainage
Soils pH — 6.0-8.0
Pruning — Can divide or cut back
Diseases — Prone to leaf spot if kept too damp

Caraway

Caraway is a biennial. Plant outside in fall for seeds next summer.

Size — .5-2 feet tall
Light — Sun — part shade
Water — Moist, good drainage
Soil pH — Neutral — alkaline
Pruning — Dead heading or removing dead or dying blossoms can promote continuous blooming.
USDA Zone — Biennial, hardy to zone 4

Catnip

Catnip is often grown for its fun blooms, it's attraction to bees and other pollinators, and for cat owners to please their pets. Catnip is a perennial plant in most of Idaho and will come back with vigor.

Size — 2-3 feet tall, 2-3 feet spread
Light — Full sun
Water — Good drainage
Soil pH — Acidic — alkaline
Bloom time — Spring — fall
Color — Purple
USDA Zone — 3-7

Celeriac

Celeriac is not the same as celery. It can be called root celery or knob celery. Its roots have a lovely, crisp celery taste and may be easier to grow in our hot dry summers.

Size — 3 inches tall
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Moist to damp
Soil pH — 6.0-7.0
USDA Zone — 7 plus for fall sewing

Chamomile

Chamomile is an annual but will aggressively reseed itself to come back year after year. Many gardeners enjoy growing chamomiles because of its cute, daisy-like flowers and for its uses in teas and cooking. Roman Chamomile is a perennial in zone 5 plus.

Size — .5-2 feet tall, 6-12 inches spread
Light — Full sun
Water — Can tolerate moisture to dry
Soil pH — Acidic — slightly alkaline
Bloom time — Spring — fall
Color — White and yellow
Pruning — Dead heading or removing dead or dying blossoms can promote continuous blooming
USDA Zone — 2-9, 5 plus for perennial Roman chamomile

Chervil

Chervil is a sweet herb, often grown to sweeten teas and other drinks. It looks a lot like parsley and is said to taste like parsley and licorice. Chervil will bolt easily, grows in cooler seasons.

Size — 6-12 inches tall and wide
Light — Full sun — shade
Water — Moist, good drainage
Soil pH — 6.5-7.0
Pruning — Remove any flower buds as soon as you see them to keep the plant from bolting
USDA Zone — 3-7

Chicory

Chicory is a perennial plant grown for its root, not to be confused with the leafy vegetable chicory (endive). It has sweet little blue flowers that look like asters.

Light — Full sun
Water — Moist but not wet, higher water needs to not get bitter root
Soil pH — 5.5-7.0
Bloom time — Summer — fall
Color — Blue, purple
USDA Zone — 3-10

Chives

Chives are a perennial plant in the onion family. Their tube-like leaves are cut for their flavor and added to many dishes. Chives have purple pom-pom like flowers that bloom in the spring. Harvest chives early to avoid woody stems.

Size — 12 inches tall, will continue to spread wider each year
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Good drainage
Soil pH — Acidic — neutral
Bloom time — Early summer
Color — Purple
USDA Zone — 3-9

Cilantro

Cilantro is an annual herb, grown for both its leaves and its seeds (coriander) and served in many dishes. Cilantro is fairly easy to grow but will bolt in the hot months of the summer. Many beneficial insects are attracted to the blooms of the cilantro plant.

Size — up to 2 feet tall, 10-24 inches spread
Light — Full sun — part shade, shadier areas may help prevent bolting.
Water — Moist, good drainage, does best in loam or plenty of organic matter.
Soil pH — Acidic — neutral
Bloom time — Summer
Color — White
Pruning — Remove any flower buds as soon as you see them to prevent bolting, unless you are growing for the seeds.
USDA Zone — 2-11

Comfrey

Comfrey is a perennial herb with beautiful small flowers that many gardeners enjoy. It also has a very extensive root system, making it hardy but difficult to get rid of, so plant with caution. Comfrey is toxic to humans and pets, so plant with care.

Size — 1-3 feet tall, .5-3 feet spread
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Good drainage
Soil pH — Neutral
Bloom time — Spring
Color — Blue, pink, purple, white
Pruning — After the first full year, prune comfrey back to just a few inches above the ground to promote young, healthy growth.
USDA Zone — 4-8

Dill

Dill is an annual herb that is very easy to grow. In fact, once you start growing it, you may never stop. Though many home gardeners enjoy growing dill for its fun visual texture and for its uses in cooking and pickling. Both the seeds and stems can be used in food.

Size — 2-5 feet tall, 1-3 feet spread
Light — Full sun
Water — Good drainage
Soil pH — Acidic — neutral
Bloom time — Late summer
Color — Yellow
USDA Zone — 2-11

Fennel

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a tender annual in the legume (bean) family. The plant is very similar to clover. Seeds are said to taste like maple syrup.

Size — 2-3 feet tall
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Moist, well drained
Soils pH — 6.0-7.0, well drained loamy soil
Pruning — As an annual in Idaho, pruning won't be necessary
Diseases — Susceptible to rust

Feverfew

Feverfew is a short-lived perennial, zones 5-10. Will be an annual in cooler zones of Idaho. This daisy-like plant has been cultivated for thousands of years on several continents.

Size — Up to 2 feet tall
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Wet — medium, well drained
Soil pH — 6.0-7.0, prefers soil rick in organic material — so add some compost
Bloom time — Throughout summer
Color — White, yellow
Pruning — Short lived enough that pruning isn't usually necessary
USDA Zone — 5-10
Diseases — No notable disease issues
Preservation and use — Feverfew does bloom significantly more in its second season, so if you're in a cooler zone, consider potting and bringing indoors for winter

Germander

Germander is a perennial with many different species. This perennial has pink to purple flowers and smells slightly like sage. Even if you're not into herbs, this can be a fun border plant.

Size — 1-6 feet tall and wide, depending on variety
Light — Full sun
Water — Medium — dry
Soils pH — 6.0-8.0 pH
Bloom time — Mid-summer
Color — Blue, pink, purple, white
Pruning — Can divide after first year, can also be cut back to desired size
USDA Zone — 5-9
Diseases — Susceptible to mildew if kept too moist
Preservation and use — Extensive use of Germander in herbal teas or remedies has been linked to severe liver issues

Ginger

Ginger is a perennial annual in Idaho. Ginger is very popular tuber to use in cooking, especially in Asian cuisine. It's best if purchased in the fall, kept indoors and planted out in the spring. Ginger needs a good 10 month growing season, so in many parts of Idaho, some of its growing will have to be done indoors or in a greenhouse type situation.

Size — 3-4 feet tall, in warmer zones, rhizomes will spread
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Plenty of water, but not soggy
Soils pH — Needs organic rich soil — do not skimp on compost or fertilizer
Diseases — Susceptible to bacterial wilt

Dill to Lovage

Dill

Size — 2-5 feet tall, 1-3 feet spread
Light — Full sun
Water — Good drainage
Soil pH — Acidic — neutral
Bloom time — Late summer
Color — Yellow
USDA Zone — 2-11

Fennel

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a tender annual in the legume (bean) family. The plant is very similar to clover. Seeds are said to taste like maple syrup.

Size — 2-3 feet tall
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Moist, well drained
Soils pH — 6.0-7.0, well drained loamy soil
Pruning — As an annual in Idaho, pruning won't be necessary
Diseases — Susceptible to rust

Feverfew

Feverfew is a short-lived perennial, zones 5-10. Will be an annual in cooler zones of Idaho. This daisy-like plant has been cultivated for thousands of years on several continents.

Size — Up to 2 feet tall
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Wet — medium, well drained
Soil pH — 6.0-7.0, prefers soil rick in organic material — so add some compost
Bloom time — Throughout summer
Color — White, yellow
Pruning — Short lived enough that pruning isn't usually necessary
USDA Zone — 5-10
Diseases — No notable disease issues
Preservation and use — Feverfew does bloom significantly more in its second season, so if you're in a cooler zone, consider potting and bringing indoors for winter

Germander

Germander is a perennial with many different species. This perennial has pink to purple flowers and smells slightly like sage. Even if you're not into herbs, this can be a fun border plant.

Size — 1-6 feet tall and wide, depending on variety
Light — Full sun
Water — Medium — dry
Soils pH — 6.0-8.0 pH
Bloom time — Mid-summer
Color — Blue, pink, purple, white
Pruning — Can divide after first year, can also be cut back to desired size
USDA Zone — 5-9
Diseases — Susceptible to mildew if kept too moist
Preservation and use — Extensive use of Germander in herbal teas or remedies has been linked to severe liver issues

Ginger

Size — 3-4 feet tall, in warmer zones, rhizomes will spread
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Plenty of water, but not soggy
Soils pH — Needs organic rich soil — do not skimp on compost or fertilizer
Diseases — Susceptible to bacterial wilt

Horehound

Horehound is a perennial in zones 3-9, so almost every zone in Idaho. Horehound is especially known for its namesake candy made from the herb with its bitter licorice-like flavor.

Size — 30 inches tall, will spread
Light — Full sun
Water — Very drought tolerant
Soils pH — Will grow in almost any soil
Bloom time — All through summer
Color — Flower is white to yellow, nondescript
Pruning — Can trim to desired size
Diseases — Not susceptible to any notable diseases

Horseradish

Horseradish is a perennial plant in Idaho. This plant is grown for its roots with its spicy, tangy bite. This plant will spread readily, so plant with caution.

Size — 12-18 inches tall
Light — Full sun
Water — Drought tolerant
Soils pH — 6.0-7.5
USDA Zone — 3-9
Diseases — Can be susceptible to verticillium wilt

Lavender

Lavender is a perennial, though there are many varieties that will not tolerate cooler climates in Idaho. This is a favorite plant for its beautiful purple blooms and strong scent. Many home gardeners enjoy growing lavender.

Size — 1-3 feet tall and wide, will get wider each year
Light — Full sun
Water — Well drained soil, drought tolerant
Soils pH — 6.5-8.0
Bloom Time — Throughout summer
Color — Blue, purple, white
Pruning — Bunches of lavender can be harvested for the flowers and leaves. Bunches should be cut back slightly each spring to eliminate the winter die-off and give pleasing shape.
USDA Zone — Some 5-9, some are only hardy to zone 7 and some special varieties are now hardy to zone 4

Lemon balm

Lemon balm is a perennial in the mint family, meaning it will grow vigorously and spread. Bees love this flower and people enjoy the smell.

Size — Up to 3 feet tall, will spread
Light — Full sun
Water — Moist, well drained
Soils pH — 6.5-7.0
Bloom Time — Mid-summer
Color — Purple, white
USDA Zone — 4-9
Diseases — Can get powdery mildew — take care to not over water to avoid mildew

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a perennial but only in very warm climates, not in Idaho. It can still be enjoyed as an annual throughout the summer. The smell is wonderful, and it grows as a nice bunch grass.

Size — Up to 3 feet tall in Idaho summers
Light — Full sun
Water — Lemongrass comes from tropical environments and thus needs quite a bit of water
Soils pH — 6.5-7.0
USDA Zone — 9-10

Lemon verbena

Lemon Verbena is a perennial plant, but lives as an annual in all zones of Idaho. This plant is grown for its pretty little flowers and wonderful smell. This is a great plant to put in pots and planters and can be grown indoors with plenty of light.

Size — Shrubs can reach enormous sizes, but when grown as an annual, it will not achieve its full potential, only reaching about 12 inches tall and spreading along the ground
Light — Full sun
Water — Moist
Soils pH — 6.5
Bloom Time — Throughout summer
Color — Blue, pink, purple, red, white
USDA Zone — 8 plus, annual in Idaho

Licorice root

Licorice root is a perennial in only the warmest zones of Idaho. It can be grown as an annual in cooler zones. This is a large plant with fun flowers and a delicious smell.

Size — Up to 6 feet tall, will spread
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Drought tolerant
Soils pH — 5.5-8.2
Bloom Time — All summer
Color — Pink, purple, white
Pruning — Can prune to desired size
USDA Zone — 6-11

Lovage

Lovage is a large perennial plant. This herb is very popular for cooking in Europe, with a celery-like flavor and maple syrup smell. The fun-shaped leaves make a fun addition to a vegetable garden or decorative flower garden.

Size — Up to 6 feet tall, 2 feet wide
Light — Full sun
Water — Moist, well drained — may need extra water to not wilt in extreme heat
Soils pH — 6.0-7.0
Color — White, yellow, nondescript
Pruning — Can cut back as needed throughout the summer
USDA Zone — 3-9

Marjoram to Valerian

Marjoram

Sweet marjoram is a popular herb in Mediterranean cuisine. This interesting herb can be grown as an annual in Idaho. Marjoram is similar to Oregano, though not as hardy.

Size — 1-2 feet tall, will spread a little throughout summer
Light — Full sun
Water — Medium — dry
Soils pH — 6.7-7.0
Bloom Time — Later summer
Color — Purple, white
USDA Zone — 7 plus, grown as annual in Idaho

Mint

Mint is a hardy and voracious perennial in most places in Idaho. There are many types of mint that can be grown — know what you are getting. Also be aware that mint will spread and take over any area you put it in.

Size — 12-24 inches tall, will spread a lot
Light — Full sun
Water — Moist
Soils pH — 6.0-7.5
Bloom Time — Mid summer into fall
Color — Pink, purple, white
Pruning — Can cut more vigorously to prevent spreading — you may want to deadhead flowers to reduce reseeding
USDA Zone — 3-11

Oregano

Oregano is a perennial in most zones of Idaho. It's a small woody shrub with little purple flowers and a gorgeous smell. This is a good addition to herb beds and ornamental beds.

Size — Up to 2 feet tall and 18 inches wide
Light — Full sun
Water — Drought tolerant, once established
Soils pH — 6.5-7.0
Bloom Time — Mid-summer into fall
Color — Blue, pink, purple, white
Pruning — If harvesting for leaves, you will want to pinch off flowers as they come on
USDA Zone — 5-10
Diseases — Can be susceptible to fungal issues if kept too wet

Parsley

Parsley is a popular annual plant to grow for the kitchen. There are many different varieties to try. They smell nice and have fun foliage to add texture to your garden.

Size — 12-24 inches tall
Light — Full sun
Water — Moist
Soils pH — 6.0-7.0
Bloom Time — Will bloom in early summer, but blooms need to be pinched off and kept at bay if you will harvest the parsley for eating
Color — White
Pruning — Harvest regularly and pinch off any flowers before they bloom

Patchouli (low pH)

Patchouli is a voracious perennial that thrives in acidic soils — making it unsuitable to grow in much of Idaho. It is a popular herb grown for its smell. It thrives in warmer zones and will be an annual in all parts of Idaho.

Size — 1-3 feet tall
Light — Full sun
Water — Moist, well drained
Soils pH — 5.5-7.5
Bloom Time — Mid-summer
Color — White
USDA Zone — 9 plus

Rosemary

Rosemary must be grown indoors or as an annual in many parts of Idaho. This is a very popular herb to grow for home cooking. It needs lots of sun, making it difficult (but not impossible) to grow indoors.

Size — Can achieve large size in warmer zones when grown as a perennial — 6 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide. It will not reach that potential in cooler zones staying closer to 12-24 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Light — Full sun
Water — Moist
Soils pH — 6.0-7.0
Bloom Time — Early summer
Color — Blue, pink, purple, white
Pruning — Should be pruned in fall to control size and promote vigorous fresh growth in the new year
USDA Zone — 6b plus
Diseases — Susceptible to fungal diseases, don't over water

Saffron

Saffron is a perennial corm that blooms very early in the year. The stamens are harvested for culinary use. Less hardy than most crocus.

Size — Up to 6 inches tall
Light — Full sun
Water — Good drainage, medium needs
Soils pH — 6.8-7.8
Bloom Time — Late winter — early spring
Color — Purple
USDA Zone — 5-8
Diseases — Rodents love, susceptible to mites

Sage

Sage is a perennial in most parts of Idaho. This small, woody shrub is popularly grown for its culinary use but is also a lovely plant with soft leaves and purple flowers.

Size — Up to 2 feet tall, up to 3 feet spread
Light — Full sun
Water — Moderate water needs
Soils pH — 6.0-7.0
Bloom Time — Mid to late summer
Color — Blue, pink, purple
Pruning — Prune back to desired size
USDA Zone — 4-8, variety dependent
Diseases — Susceptible to leaf spot, especially when over watered

Savory

Savory is an annual herb, popular in French cuisine. This plant has a similar look to flax with spindly leaves and small flowers. A fun addition to any herb garden.

Size — 12-24 inches tall
Light — Full sun
Water — Good drainage, somewhat drought tolerant
Soils pH — 6.7-7.3
Bloom Time — Throughout summer
Color — Pink, purple, white

Star Anise

Star Anise is a perennial in warmer zones of Idaho. It can be grown as an annual in cooler zones but needs a long growing season to produce seed pods.

Size — A sizeable shrub when grown in warm zones — up to 15 feet tall
Light — Full sun — full shade
Water — High water needs
Soils pH — 6.3-7.0
Bloom Time — Spring
Color — Pink, red, white
Pruning — Doesn't need to be pruned but can be hedged or in the technique of espalier
USDA Zone — 6-9
Diseases — Susceptible to downy mildew

Stevia

Stevia is grown as an annual in Idaho. Start indoors for best results as stevia requires a long growing season. Stevia is grown for its sweet leaves.

Size — In one growing season, up to 2 feet tall and 12 inches spread
Light — Full sun
Water — Moist, well drained
Soils pH — 6.5-7.5
Bloom Time — Late summer into fall
Color — White, insignificant
USDA Zone — 8 plus

Tarragon

Tarragon is a perennial in most zones of Idaho. This large, herbaceous plant is mostly grown for culinary use but can add textural variety to flower beds with its thin, wispy leaves. Some varieties are also very fragrant, especially in the wind.

Size — Up to 4 feet tall, will spread in width from year to year, up to 12 inches spread the first year
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Dry, will not tolerate wet soil
Soils pH — 6.5-7.5
Bloom Time — Late summer
Color — White, yellow, insignificant
Pruning — Can prune to the ground regularly
USDA Zone — 4 plus

Thyme

Thyme is a perennial in many zones of Idaho. There are many varieties of thyme from the shrub variety grown for culinary use to the creeping thymes used as ground cover for their hardiness and drought tolerance.

Size — Very variety dependent, some can reach up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches spread, some remain very low growing but spread rapidly
Light — Full sun
Water — Drought tolerant
Soils pH — 6.0-8.0
Bloom Time — Early summer
Color — Blue, pink, purple, white
Pruning — Can prune back to desired size
USDA Zone — 5 plus
Diseases — Susceptible to fungal conditions, especially if kept in damp conditions

Turmeric

Turmeric will grow well only in the very warmest zones of Idaho. Turmeric needs 8-10 months of growth to develop the tuber needed for culinary use. Turmeric can be grown in a container setting, but needs very good drainage and ample sunlight, making growth indoors challenging. Turmeric also prefers a slightly acidic soil, making it difficult to grow in many regions of Idaho with alkaline soil and water.

Size — Up to 3 feet tall
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Good drainage, doesn't like to be wet, but drought stress during the bulk of tuber growth will result in an undesirable tuber
Soils pH — 5.5-6.5
Bloom Time — Late summer
Color — Pink, red, white
USDA Zone — 8-10
Diseases — Susceptible to rhizome rot, bacterial wilt

Valerian

Valerian is a perennial herb, grown for its interesting showy flowers. Use extreme caution with valerian as ingestion can cause adverse side effects.

Size — Up to 5 feet tall, will spread over time, can become weedy
Light — Full sun — part shade
Water — Moderate, good drainage
Soils pH — 6.0-7.0
Bloom Time — Early summer
Color — Pink, red, white
Pruning — Should be cut down in fall
USDA Zone — 3-9

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