Growing herbs in Alaska’s short growing season requires selecting varieties that mature quickly under long daylight hours. If you’re searching for the best herbs to grow in Alaska, you need plants that can handle cool soils and rapid growth. This guide covers top picks for your Alaskan garden, from hardy perennials to fast-growing annuals.
Alaska’s unique climate—long summer days and chilly nights—actually benefits many herbs. The extended daylight boosts flavor and growth, while cooler temps reduce bolting. You can grow fresh herbs even in a short window with the right choices.
Let’s get straight to the list. No fluff, just practical advice for your northern garden.
Best Herbs To Grow In Alaska
These herbs are proven winners for Alaskan conditions. They thrive in cool soil, resist frost, and produce harvests in 60 days or less.
Chives
Chives are one of the easiest herbs for Alaska. They survive winter freezes and come back each spring. Plant them in full sun or partial shade. You can start seeds indoors 4 weeks before last frost or direct sow in May.
- Matures in 30 days from transplant
- Grows well in containers or garden beds
- Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth
Dill
Dill loves Alaska’s long days. It grows fast and self-seeds easily. Sow seeds directly in the garden after soil warms to 60°F. Dill does not transplant well, so direct sowing is best.
- Ready to harvest in 40-50 days
- Use leaves fresh or dry for winter
- Attracts beneficial insects like swallowtail caterpillars
Cilantro
Cilantro bolts quickly in heat, but Alaska’s cool temps keep it leafy longer. Plant seeds every 2 weeks for a steady supply. It prefers cool soil and partial shade in hot spells.
- Harvest leaves in 3-4 weeks
- Seeds (coriander) mature in 90 days
- Grows well in pots on a deck
Parsley
Parsley is a biennial but grows as an annual in Alaska. Soak seeds overnight before planting to speed germination. It needs rich soil and consistent moisture.
- Flat-leaf and curly types both work
- Harvest outer leaves first
- Can survive light frost with protection
Mint
Mint is invasive in warm climates, but Alaska’s cold winters keep it in check. Plant in containers to prevent spreading. It thrives in partial shade and moist soil.
- Peppermint and spearmint are top choices
- Harvest leaves anytime
- Great for teas and cocktails
Oregano
Oregano is a hardy perennial that survives Alaska winters with mulch. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before last frost.
- Harvest leaves before flowering for best flavor
- Dries well for winter use
- Greek oregano is most flavorful
Thyme
Thyme is another perennial that handles cold well. It needs full sun and sandy soil. Plant in raised beds or containers to improve drainage.
- Harvest sprigs as needed
- Winterizes with a light mulch layer
- Lemon thyme adds variety
Sage
Sage is a woody perennial that can survive Alaska winters in sheltered spots. It needs full sun and good air circulation. Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before last frost.
- Harvest leaves sparingly the first year
- Common sage is most reliable
- Protect with row cover in severe cold
Basil
Basil is a tender annual that needs warmth. Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before last frost. Transplant after soil reaches 70°F. Use cloches or cold frames to extend the season.
- Genovese basil is a classic
- Harvest leaves regularly to prevent flowering
- Grows well in containers on a sunny porch
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a hardy perennial that spreads easily. It tolerates partial shade and poor soil. Harvest leaves for calming tea.
- Matures in 60 days from seed
- Can become weedy if not contained
- Deer and rabbits avoid it
How To Start Herbs In Alaska
Starting herbs in Alaska takes planning. The growing season is short, but you can maximize it with these steps.
Start Seeds Indoors
Most herbs need a head start. Begin seeds 4-8 weeks before your last frost date. Use a seed-starting mix and grow lights. Keep soil moist but not wet.
- Fill trays with damp seed-starting mix
- Sow seeds at depth listed on packet
- Cover with plastic wrap until germination
- Place under grow lights 14-16 hours daily
- Harden off seedlings for a week before transplanting
Direct Sow Hardy Herbs
Some herbs do better direct sown. Dill, cilantro, and parsley can go in the ground after soil thaws. Wait until soil temperature reaches at least 50°F.
- Prepare soil by removing rocks and weeds
- Sow seeds in shallow rows
- Water gently to avoid washing seeds away
- Thin seedlings to proper spacing
Use Season Extenders
Alaska’s frost can come early. Protect your herbs with simple tools.
- Row covers add 5-10°F of frost protection
- Cold frames extend the season by weeks
- Cloches protect individual plants
- Raised beds warm up faster in spring
Best Herbs For Alaska’s Microclimates
Alaska has many microclimates. Coastal areas are milder, while interior regions have extreme cold. Choose herbs suited to your specific area.
Southcentral Alaska
Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula have longer growing seasons. You can grow most herbs listed here. Basil and sage need extra protection.
- Chives, mint, and oregano thrive
- Dill and cilantro self-seed easily
- Basil grows well in containers
Interior Alaska
Fairbanks has very cold winters and short summers. Focus on fast-growing annuals and hardy perennials.
- Cilantro and dill are reliable
- Chives and mint survive winters
- Use cold frames for basil
Southeast Alaska
Juneau has mild winters and lots of rain. Herbs that like moisture do well here.
- Mint and lemon balm thrive
- Parsley and chives grow year-round in mild spots
- Basil needs a sunny, sheltered location
Common Problems Growing Herbs In Alaska
Even with the best herbs to grow in Alaska, you might face challenges. Here’s how to solve them.
Slow Germination
Cold soil slows seed sprouting. Use a soil thermometer. Warm soil with black plastic before planting. Start seeds indoors for heat-loving herbs.
Frost Damage
Late spring and early fall frosts kill tender herbs. Watch the forecast. Cover plants with row covers or blankets overnight. Remove covers in the morning.
Pests
Slugs and aphids are common in Alaska. Hand-pick slugs at night. Spray aphids with a strong stream of water. Use neem oil for severe infestations.
Poor Flavor
Herbs need full sun for best flavor. If leaves taste weak, move plants to a sunnier spot. Harvest in the morning when oils are strongest.
Harvesting And Storing Alaskan Herbs
Harvest at the right time for maximum flavor. Store properly to enjoy herbs all winter.
When To Harvest
- Harvest leafy herbs before they flower
- Cut in the morning after dew dries
- Take no more than one-third of the plant at a time
- For seeds, wait until seed heads turn brown
How To Store
- Drying: Hang small bunches upside down in a dark, airy space
- Freezing: Chop herbs and freeze in ice cube trays with water or oil
- Refrigerating: Place fresh herbs in a damp paper towel inside a bag
- Infusing: Add herbs to vinegar or oil for flavored condiments
Frequently Asked Questions
What herbs grow best in Alaska’s short season?
Chives, dill, cilantro, and parsley are top choices. They mature quickly and handle cool weather well.
Can I grow basil in Alaska?
Yes, but it needs warmth. Start seeds indoors and use cloches or cold frames. Grow in containers to move indoors if frost threatens.
Do perennial herbs survive Alaska winters?
Chives, mint, oregano, thyme, and sage can survive with proper care. Mulch heavily and choose sheltered spots.
When should I plant herbs in Alaska?
Start seeds indoors 4-8 weeks before last frost. Direct sow hardy herbs in late May or early June. Use season extenders to plant earlier.
How do I protect herbs from frost?
Use row covers, cloches, or cold frames. Water the soil before a frost—wet soil holds heat. Bring container herbs indoors overnight.
Growing the best herbs to grow in Alaska is totally doable with a little planning. Stick to fast-maturing varieties, use season extenders, and harvest often. You’ll have fresh herbs all summer and dried ones for winter. Start small, learn what works in your microclimate, and expand next year. Happy gardening in the Last Frontier!