Knowledgebase

Overwintering Herbs #915847

Asked August 29, 2025, 5:04 PM EDT

Hello Master Gardeners, I am curious about overwintering some of my herbs either in a dormant state or continuous growth as a houseplant. The herbs are currently located in a raised garden bed. I have had success harvesting seeds from cilantro and dill and replanting them in the past. This year I have cilantro, dill, Greek oregano, basil, parsley, and rosemary. I also have a pepper plant that I would be interested in overwintering if possible too. I’m especially interested in how to overwinter the rosemary. I have an unfinished basement, a garage, and a 3 season porch to potentially place them in. Thanks for your help!

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Morning, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

It would be important to have the plants under lights inside. Our Minnesota winters do not provide enough light from windows. 

Here are a few links from our website about growing herbs: https://extension.umn.edu/news/growing-herbs-inside-easy-and-healthy

https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-herbs

Here is a link about growing rosemary: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b968

I personally have had several failed attempts at overwintering rosemary. I believe I may have planted it in potting soil that was too heavy and over watered it! 

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied August 30, 2025, 8:55 AM EDT

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