The Jenny Lane Project | Front Porch
If you’re just joining me, The Jenny Lane Project is my real-time journey of transforming our average 90s split foyer into a clean, cozy, non-toxic home—inside and out. Most of the project so far has focused on what’s happening inside the house, but today we’re stepping outside to grow an herb garden in the one spot that gets full sun: our front porch.
Last year our front porch was just the builder style cement slab that every house gets adorned with- until the rain decided to start sinking it. In came the landscape company to re-grade our front lawn and upgrade our front porch. We went with a stone that compliments the brick surround of our front door and we love it. What’s more, our timing could not have been better. The landscapers found an underground moat just waiting to flood our basement. I don’t want to even think about the damage control that would have followed. Luckily we fixed it just in time! And now we get to enjoy a fantastic front porch soon to be made better with an herb garden facelift!
There’s something incredibly satisfying about stepping onto your front porch, plucking a few sprigs of basil, and tossing them into dinner like it’s no big deal. My porch herb garden started as a little experiment—but it’s turned into one of my favorite small space wellness wins. And honestly? It smells amazing!
A Porch With Potential
Most of our yard is shaded by beautiful, mature trees, which I love for their charm and the way they keep things cool in the summer. But when it comes to growing anything sun-loving, it’s a challenge. All of a sudden I have become an expert on shade tolerant, deer resistant plants that thrive in clay soil- easier said than done.
The front porch is the one space that consistently gets full sun throughout the day, and I’ve decided to make the most of it. I’m using terracotta pots—not just because they’re pretty and earthy, but because they’re breathable and ideal for herbs that don’t like to sit in damp soil. And instead of filling these pots with ornamental plants, I’m focusing on something more functional: herbs.
Why Herbs
For me, it was also about reconnecting with the idea of using nature for wellness. As a nurse, I appreciate how small lifestyle habits—like growing an herb garden or cooking more at home—can ripple into better health. Did you know there’s scientific evidence that gardening is proven to improve blood pressure, pulse rate and muscle tension? What’s even more impressive? Gardening can actually defeat stress, fear, anger and sadness- talk about a powerful dose of holistic medicine.
Herbs are:
- Easy to grow and maintain
- Highly versatile in the kitchen
- Full of healing and wellness benefits
- A way to reduce grocery store waste and packaging
- An opportunity to connect with the seasons and nature (even from a porch)
Plus, there’s just something grounding about walking out your door and being greeted by the scent of rosemary or lavender in the sun.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy raised beds, a huge set up, or even a large amount of time.
Here’s what I used:
- A few terracotta pots (breathable + budget-friendly)
- Organic potting soil
- Starter plants from a local nursery (easier than starting from seed and supports a local shop)
- A watering can and kitchen scissors for harvests
- Sunny spot (my porch gets about 6 hours a day)
The Plan: 3 Pots, 3 Herb Combinations
After researching which herbs grow well together in containers and in full sun, I’ve designed three balanced combinations for my medium terracotta pots. Each one is based on plant compatibility, shared care needs, and of course—what I’ll actually use in everyday life.
Pot 1: The Mediterranean Medley- Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano
*Can we take a small detour to discuss the complexity of finding oregano in my local area. I went to three different places and found one whole plant. Cross your fingers it keeps going strong because it’s the last one in my area. Rant over, not back to planting…
These herbs all thrive in full sun and dry conditions, making them ideal companions for one pot. They don’t require frequent watering and actually prefer a little neglect.
Why I chose them:
- They’re perfect for roasted vegetables, chicken, soups, and stews.
- Rosemary adds structure and height.
- Thyme and oregano create a softer, trailing effect.
Care tips:
- Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
- Use a gritty, well-draining potting mix.
- Avoid over watering—root rot is their enemy.
Pot 2: The Fragrant + Floral Blend- Lavender, Sage, Lemon Thyme
This combination is not only beautiful but incredibly aromatic. Lavender adds vertical interest and calming fragrance, while sage and lemon thyme fill in the pot with texture and depth.
Why I chose them:
- Lavender helps repel pests and adds a relaxing scent to the porch.
- Sage is a grounding herb for both cooking and cleansing.
- Lemon thyme is a gentle, citrusy variation that pairs beautifully with teas and marinades.
Care tips:
- Needs full sun and excellent drainage.
- Prune lavender regularly to keep it bushy.
- Don’t crowd the pot—give lavender room to breathe.
Pot 3: The Culinary Kitchen Staples- Basil, Parsley, Chives
This is my go-to cooking pot—perfect for clipping fresh herbs while I’m prepping dinner. These herbs like a little more moisture than the others, so I’ll be more consistent with watering here.
Why I chose them:
- Basil for pasta, pesto, and summer salads.
- Parsley for garnish, soups, and fresh flavor.
- Chives for eggs, potatoes, and homemade dips.
Care tips:
- Water consistently—these herbs don’t like to dry out.
- Harvest regularly to encourage new growth.
- Pinch basil often to keep it from going to seed too soon.
How to Plant + Maintain
Step 1: Fill pots with organic potting soil. Herbs need good drainage, so skip the garden soil.
Step 2: Gently remove each herb from its nursery pot and tease out the roots before planting.
Step 3: Water thoroughly after planting. Herbs like a good soak, then a chance to dry slightly.
Step 4: Place them on your porch where they’ll get enough sunlight.
Step 5: Water every 2–3 days depending on your weather and container size.
Pro Tip: Overwatering is worse than underwatering. Stick your finger into the soil—if it’s dry up to the first knuckle, it’s time to water.
Wellness, Right at the Doorstep
Container gardening might seem like a small thing, but to me, it’s a meaningful piece of this larger home transformation. It’s not just about having fresh herbs on hand—it’s about creating a space that encourages slower living, seasonal awareness, and intentional choices. It’s one of the first things I see when I step outside, and it instantly lifts my mood.
Plus, these herb garden pots are another step toward reducing what we rely on from stores, minimizing plastic packaging, and building small daily habits that support our health.
What’s Next in The Jenny Lane Project
The entryway is still in progress, but this container garden was the quick win I needed. It’s proof that even if the inside of the house isn’t “done,” you can still find beauty and growth in the small moments and spaces.
I’ll be sharing updates on Instagram Stories as these herbs grow, along with ideas for how I’m using them in our meals and routines. If you want behind-the-scenes updates and free resources, you can also sign up for emails.
Have You Tried Container Herb Gardening?
I’d love to know what you’re growing—or dreaming about growing. Do you have a favorite herb combo? Any porch gardening tips? Drop a comment below or connect with me on Instagram!
