The Key Is Good Drainage
Before we dive into the herbs themselves, it’s crucial to understand the one rule for success: good drainage. While the herbs on this list tolerate moist conditions and lower light, none of them enjoy sitting in a puddle. The persistent rain and humidity
of wet weather mean that waterlogged soil is a real risk, which can lead to root rot. To prevent this, ensure every pot has drainage holes at the bottom. You can also add a layer of broken pottery shards or small stones at the base before filling it with a light, well-aerated potting mix. A good mix often contains soil, compost, and coco-peat, which retains moisture without becoming heavy and saturated.
1. Mint (Pudina)
Mint is famously vigorous and one of the easiest herbs to grow in less-than-ideal conditions. It thrives in partial shade and actually prefers consistently moist soil, making it a perfect candidate for a rainy balcony. In fact, some protection from intense, direct sun can result in larger, more tender leaves. Mint’s aggressive nature means it’s best grown in its own container, as its runners will quickly take over any shared space. Water it regularly, but let the pot drain freely. Harvest the leaves often by pinching off the top stems; this encourages the plant to grow bushier and fuller. From refreshing chutneys to a simple cup of mint tea on a rainy evening, your own supply is a game-changer.
2. Coriander (Dhania)
Growing coriander during the monsoon can be incredibly rewarding. This essential Indian herb often struggles in intense summer heat, which causes it to ‘bolt’ (flower prematurely). The cooler temperatures and filtered sunlight of the rainy season are actually ideal for promoting lush leafy growth. Plant coriander in a spot that gets gentle morning sun but is shaded from the harsh afternoon glare. It has a long taproot, so choose a pot that offers some depth. Like other herbs, it needs well-draining soil to prevent its shallow roots from becoming soggy during heavy downpours. For a continuous supply, sow a new batch of seeds every two to three weeks.
3. Parsley
Both curly and flat-leaf parsley varieties are surprisingly adaptable and do very well in partial shade. Like coriander, they appreciate protection from scorching sun, and their flavour can even be better when grown in cooler, shadier spots. Parsley likes moist soil but is also susceptible to root rot if it becomes waterlogged. Ensure your container has excellent drainage and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. To harvest, snip the outer stems from the base of the plant. This encourages new growth from the centre, keeping your plant productive for months. It’s a versatile herb that brightens up everything from salads to sauces.
4. Chives
With their mild, onion-like flavour, chives are a fantastic addition to a low-light balcony garden. They thrive in full sun but are remarkably tolerant of partial shade, often continuing to produce well with just a few hours of light a day. In shadier spots, their growth might be slower and the flavour slightly milder, but the plant remains healthy. Chives prefer consistently moist, rich soil, making them well-suited to the humid conditions of the monsoon. Grow them in a pot with good drainage and use their grass-like leaves and edible purple flowers to garnish soups, eggs, and salads. Regular harvesting by snipping the leaves near the base will encourage continuous production.
5. Lemon Balm
A member of the mint family, lemon balm shares many of its cousin's best traits: it's easy to grow, spreads vigorously, and thrives in partial shade. It actually prefers a cooler environment and appreciates some shelter from the intense afternoon sun. Its bright, citrusy scent is a delight on a damp day. Lemon balm prefers moist but well-drained soil, so it's a great fit for a wet-weather garden as long as its container can shed excess water. Like mint, it's best to keep it in its own pot to control its spread. Crush a few leaves into hot water for a calming, fragrant tea, or chop them into fruit salads for a zesty twist.
