What Herbs Come in a Medicinal Garden Kit: Complete Guide

The 10 Herbs Included in the Medicinal Garden Kit

The Medicinal Garden Kit lists ten seed varieties, each with its own growth habits and gardening requirements.

Learning about these plants before sowing can help you plan your garden and understand what to expect as the seedlings develop.

The following list introduces the ten varieties associated with the kit.

Check the botanical names and growing instructions on your actual seed packets before planting, as common names and seed specifications can vary.

1. Chicory (Cichorium intybus)

Chicory is a flowering plant known for its blue flowers and deep root system.

Depending on the variety and growing purpose, it can be grown for its foliage, flowers, or roots.

Choose a location with adequate sunlight and enough soil depth for the plant to establish.

2. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is a perennial herb with finely divided leaves and clusters of small flowers.

It can be a useful addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.

Once established, it may spread, so allow sufficient space and monitor its growth.

3. California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

California poppy is an ornamental flowering plant with distinctive, cup-shaped flowers, commonly orange or yellow.

It generally prefers sunny conditions and well-drained soil.

Because it develops a taproot, direct sowing in its intended growing location is often preferable to transplanting established seedlings.

4. Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)

Marshmallow is a tall perennial plant with soft, somewhat velvety leaves and pale pink flowers.

It generally prefers fertile soil with consistent moisture.

Give it adequate room to grow, particularly if you plan to cultivate it in a garden bed rather than a container.

5. Chamomile

Chamomile is known for its small, daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers.

It is commonly grown in herb gardens and can be harvested for its flowers.

Confirm the species on your seed packet, because different plants may be sold under the common name chamomile.

6. Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)

Evening primrose is commonly grown for its yellow flowers, which often open in the evening.

This species is biennial: it typically develops leafy growth in its first year and flowers in its second year.

A lack of flowers during the first season does not necessarily mean the plant has failed.

7. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender is a fragrant perennial shrub with narrow leaves and purple flower spikes.

It generally grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid persistently waterlogged growing conditions, which can damage its roots.

8. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea, often called purple coneflower, is a perennial flowering plant with prominent central flower heads.

It is commonly grown in ornamental and pollinator gardens.

Provide sufficient sunlight and space for mature plants, and confirm the exact species listed on your seed packet.

9. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, produces bright orange or yellow flowers.

It is a popular choice for home gardens and can flower over an extended period under suitable conditions.

Regularly removing spent flowers may encourage additional flowering, although results depend on growing conditions.

10. Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

Feverfew is a herbaceous plant with small, daisy-like flower heads and aromatic foliage.

It is often grown in herb and cottage gardens. Check its growth requirements and allow enough space, as plants may self-seed under suitable conditions.

What Should You Know Before Planting These Herbs?

Although these ten plants are grouped together in a medicinal gardening kit, they do not all have identical growing requirements.

Some prefer drier soil, while others benefit from more consistent moisture.

Their life cycles, germination requirements, mature sizes, and flowering times can also differ.

For best results:

• Identify each seed variety before sowing.
• Follow the planting instructions for the specific species.
• Group plants according to their sunlight, soil, and watering requirements.
• Label each planting area so you can identify seedlings as they grow.
• Research the safety of each plant separately before considering any medicinal use.

Important: A plant’s history of traditional use does not establish that it is safe or effective for treating a health condition.

Growing and identifying herbs is different from using them as medicine.

Product reference: Medicinal Garden Kit — listed seed varieties.

 

How Are Medicinal Kit Varieties Categorized by Use?

The plants in a medicinal garden kit can be grouped by their growth characteristics, the parts commonly collected, and their traditional or horticultural uses.

These categories can help you organize your garden, plan harvesting, and decide which plants need additional space or care.

When exploring what herbs come in a Medicinal Garden Kit, remember that a plant’s traditional use does not automatically prove that it is safe or effective for treating a particular health condition.

1. Flowering and Pollinator-Friendly Plants

Several varieties in the kit produce noticeable flowers that can add color and interest to a home garden.

Examples include:

• Calendula: Grown for its bright orange or yellow flowers.
• California poppy: Known for its distinctive cup-shaped flowers.
• Echinacea: Produces prominent flower heads that can attract pollinators.
• Yarrow: Produces clusters of small flowers and finely divided foliage.
• Feverfew: Has small, daisy-like flower heads.
• Chamomile: Grown for its small, daisy-like flowers.

The flowering season and mature size vary by species. Check each seed packet for sowing instructions and expected growth conditions.

2. Plants Grown for Their Leaves or Aromatic Characteristics

Some plants are valued for their foliage, fragrance, or distinctive growth habits.

Examples include:

• Yarrow: Recognized by its finely divided leaves.
• Lavender: Known for its fragrant foliage and flower spikes.
• Chicory: Develops characteristic foliage and may produce blue flowers.
• Marshmallow: Has soft leaves and can grow into a tall perennial plant.

The presence of aromatic compounds or a history of traditional use does not, by itself, establish a health benefit. Identify each plant correctly and research its intended use separately.

3. Plants With Notable Roots or Distinctive Life Cycles

Some varieties require additional planning because of their root systems or life cycles.

• Chicory: Develops a substantial root system, so consider soil depth and growing space.
• Marshmallow: Can develop a large root system and generally benefits from adequate room to grow.
• Evening primrose: Is commonly biennial, meaning it typically develops leafy growth in its first year and flowers in its second year.

These characteristics can influence where you plant each variety and when you can expect flowers or mature growth.

A Practical Garden-Planning Table

Gardening category	Examples from the kit	Planning consideration
Flowering plants	Calendula, California poppy, echinacea	Check sunlight needs and mature spacing
Daisy-like flowers	Chamomile, feverfew, yarrow	Confirm species and sowing instructions
Fragrant foliage	Lavender	Provide suitable drainage and growing conditions
Larger root systems	Chicory, marshmallow	Plan adequate soil depth and space
Biennial growth	Evening primrose	Allow for its longer flowering cycle

Important: These categories are intended to help with garden planning, not to recommend treatments for specific illnesses.

If you plan to use any plant medicinally, research its safety, evidence, preparation, and possible interactions with medicines before use.

Sources:

• Penn State Extension — Growing Herbs in the Garden
• North Carolina State University Extension — Introduction to Medicinal Herbs
• Medicinal Garden Kit — Product Information

Which Seeds in the Kit Require Special Germination Steps?

Not all herb and flower seeds germinate in the same way.

Some can be sown directly into moist growing medium, while others may benefit from specific light, temperature, or moisture conditions.

Before planting the seeds in your Medicinal Garden Kit, check the instructions supplied with each variety.

Seed size, freshness, species, and growing conditions can all influence germination.

1. Sow Small Seeds Carefully

Some plants in the kit, including chamomile, feverfew, and yarrow, produce relatively small seeds.

Depending on the species and seed supplier’s instructions, these may need to be sown on or close to the surface rather than buried deeply.

Follow these basic steps:

1. Fill a clean seed tray or small pot with a suitable seed-starting mix.
2. Moisten the growing medium before sowing.
3. Distribute the seeds according to the instructions for the specific plant.
4. Cover only as directed. If the seeds need light to germinate, press them gently against the surface without burying them.
5. Keep the growing medium evenly moist but not waterlogged.
6. Place the tray in a suitable location for the species and check it regularly.

Do not assume that every small seed requires light for germination. Confirm the requirements for each plant before deciding whether to cover it.

2. Check Whether Cold Stratification Is Necessary

Cold stratification is a process that exposes certain seeds to a period of cool, moist conditions to help overcome dormancy. It is not required for every perennial plant.

For example, Iowa State University Extension notes that purple coneflower (Echinacea species) can germinate without pretreatment under suitable conditions. However, germination requirements may vary by species, seed lot, and supplier.

Lavender can also vary in its germination response. Rather than automatically refrigerating every lavender or echinacea seed for three to four weeks, check the instructions supplied with the seeds first.

If cold stratification is recommended, follow the specified temperature, duration, moisture level, and sowing instructions. Do not leave seeds in a wet, sealed paper towel for an unspecified period, as excess moisture and poor handling can encourage mold.

3. Be Patient With Different Germination Times

Seeds from different plants may emerge at different times, even when they are planted under similar conditions. Some seedlings appear relatively quickly, while others may take longer or germinate unevenly.

Label each tray with the plant name and sowing date. Avoid discarding a tray simply because one variety has not emerged as quickly as another.

4. Acclimate Seedlings Before Moving Them Outdoors

If you start seeds indoors and intend to grow the seedlings outdoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions before transplanting when the species tolerates transplanting.

Introduce them to outdoor light and airflow gradually, and protect them from harsh conditions during the transition. Some plants, including California poppy, are better suited to direct sowing because their roots can be sensitive to disturbance.

Gardening tip: Keep the original seed packets until germination is complete. They provide useful information about plant identity, sowing depth, temperature, and any special pretreatment the seeds may require.

Sources:

• Iowa State University Extension — How to Grow Perennials from Seed
• Iowa State University Extension — Germination Requirements for Annuals and Vegetables
• UC Master Gardener Program — Growing Native Plants

Indoor Containers or Raised Beds: Where Should You Plant?

Choosing the right growing location can make a significant difference to the success of your Medicinal Garden Kit.

Some plants can grow in containers, while others benefit from the additional space and soil depth available in a garden bed.

Before planting, consider each variety’s mature size, sunlight requirements, root system, and preferred soil moisture.

1. Choose Containers With Good Drainage

Containers are useful if you have limited outdoor space, a balcony, or a small patio. Choose pots with drainage holes and use a suitable potting mix rather than dense garden soil.

Consider these plants when planning container space:

• Lavender: Needs a well-drained growing medium and should not remain in waterlogged soil.
• Calendula: Can grow in suitable containers or garden beds with adequate sunlight.
• Chamomile: Can be grown in a container if it has enough room and suitable drainage.
• California poppy: Because its taproot can be sensitive to disturbance, consider sowing it directly in the container where it will grow or in its intended garden location.

Container size should reflect the mature plant, not just the size of the seedling. A small seedling may eventually need a much larger growing space.

2. Plan Raised Beds Around Sunlight and Soil Drainage

A raised bed can provide more room for plants with larger root systems and make it easier to organize different varieties.

Many flowering plants grow well in sunny locations, but their exact needs differ.

Calendula, echinacea, yarrow, and California poppy generally benefit from good sunlight.

Check the growing instructions for each species before deciding where to plant it.

Good drainage is especially important for plants such as lavender.

Other plants may prefer more consistent soil moisture, so avoid applying one watering schedule to every variety.

3. Allow Enough Space for Larger Plants

Some plants in the kit can become substantially larger than their seedlings.

• Marshmallow: Allow room for its mature height and root system.
• Chicory: Consider the depth and space required for its root system.
• Echinacea: Allow adequate room for mature foliage and flowering stems.
• Yarrow: Give it sufficient space and monitor its spread as it becomes established.

Check the expected mature dimensions on a reliable plant-growing reference or the seed supplier’s instructions before finalizing your layout.

4. Match Watering to Each Plant

Water requirements vary among species and growing conditions.

Container plants may dry out faster than plants in garden beds, especially during hot weather.

However, watering too frequently can leave roots in saturated soil.

Use these practical guidelines:

• Check soil moisture before watering rather than following a rigid daily schedule.
• Ensure excess water can drain freely from pots.
• Avoid keeping lavender in persistently wet soil.
• Monitor plants more frequently during hot weather or after heavy rain.
• Adjust watering based on the plant’s growth stage and the local climate.

5. Organize Your Garden Before Sowing

Before planting all ten varieties, make a simple garden plan.

Group plants with similar sunlight and moisture needs, label each planting area, and leave enough space for maintenance and harvesting.

If you are growing in a small space, start with a few varieties and expand as you learn how they perform in your conditions.

Gardening tip: For general guidance on sunlight, soil, drainage, and growing herbs in containers, see University of Minnesota Extension — Growing Herbs in Home Gardens.

Related reading: Medicinal Garden Kit: A Beginner’s Guide.

 

How Do You Harvest and Preserve Herbs from Your Kit?

Harvesting herbs at the appropriate stage and handling them carefully can help preserve their appearance, aroma, and quality.

The best harvesting method depends on the plant species and the part you intend to collect.

1. Harvest at the Appropriate Growth Stage

For many herbs grown primarily for their leaves, harvesting before flowering is a useful general guideline.

However, the ideal stage varies according to the plant and the intended harvest.

For flowering plants such as calendula and chamomile, collect the flowers according to the species-specific harvesting guidance.

Avoid assuming that all flowers should be picked at exactly the same stage.

Whenever possible, harvest on a dry day after the morning dew has evaporated. This helps reduce surface moisture before drying.

2. Use Clean Tools and Handle Plants Gently

Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears when cutting stems.

Handle leaves and flowers gently to reduce bruising and avoid unnecessary damage.

Before harvesting, check that the plant is correctly identified and healthy.

Remove damaged or diseased material, and label each batch promptly because some dried plants can look similar.

3. Choose a Suitable Drying Method

Several methods can be used to preserve harvested herbs:

• Air drying: Suitable for many herbs when the environment is dry and well ventilated.
• Screen drying: Useful for individual leaves and delicate flowers that are difficult to hang in bundles.
• Food dehydrator: Provides more control over airflow and temperature, which can be helpful in humid conditions.

Avoid direct sunlight during drying because it can affect the color and flavor of herbs.

In humid environments, monitor the harvest carefully and consider a controlled drying method if room-air drying is too slow.

4. Check That the Herbs Are Completely Dry

Many dried leaves become crisp and crumble easily, while thin stems may snap when bent.

These are useful practical indicators, although the exact texture varies by species.

Do not pack herbs while they remain damp. Residual moisture can encourage spoilage during storage.

5. Store Dried Herbs Properly

Place completely dried herbs in clean, airtight containers and store them in a cool, dry, dark location.

Label each container with the plant name and harvest date.

Keep the leaves whole when practical, and crush them shortly before use to help preserve their aroma.

Inspect stored herbs for condensation or signs of mold. Discard any material that shows visible mold or clear signs of spoilage.

For additional details, read our guide to How to Harvest and Dry Herbs from Medicinal Garden Kit Plants.

Sources:

• Oregon State University Extension — Drying Herbs
• National Center for Home Food Preservation — Herbs

When Should You Seek Medical Care Instead of Home Herbs?

Growing medicinal herbs can help you learn about plants and traditional herbal practices.

However, homegrown herbs should not replace appropriate medical care, especially when symptoms are severe, persistent, or unexplained.

1. Recognize Symptoms That Need Urgent Medical Attention

Do not rely on herbal teas, salves, or other home preparations when a medical problem may require urgent assessment.

Seek emergency medical care for warning signs such as:

• Sudden or severe chest pain, particularly when accompanied by discomfort in the arm or jaw
• Severe difficulty breathing
• Sudden facial drooping, weakness on one side of the body, or difficulty speaking
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• A severe allergic reaction involving throat or tongue swelling or difficulty breathing

These symptoms can indicate serious conditions that require prompt assessment.

Contact your local emergency service rather than attempting to manage them with home remedies.

2. Get Medical Advice for Persistent or Unexplained Symptoms

Arrange medical evaluation for symptoms that persist, worsen, or have no clear explanation.

Examples include repeated vomiting, unexplained weight loss, a persistent fever, or a wound that is deep, infected-looking, or not healing.

Do not delay appropriate care while trying different herbal preparations.

The correct treatment depends on the underlying cause of the symptoms.

3. Check for Possible Herb–Medication Interactions

Herbal products can interact with prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, and other supplements.

These interactions may affect how a medicine works or increase the risk of unwanted effects.

Speak with a qualified healthcare professional or pharmacist before using concentrated herbal preparations if you take regular medication, have an ongoing medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are preparing for surgery.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) explains why combining medicines and supplements requires care.

4. Remember That Natural Does Not Always Mean Safe

Correctly identifying a plant is essential, but identification alone does not establish that it is safe for every person or every use.

Safety can depend on the plant species, the part used, the preparation, the amount, and the individual’s circumstances.

Treat this garden as an opportunity to grow and learn about plants.

Before using any herb medicinally, research its safety and evidence carefully, and consult a qualified healthcare professional when appropriate.

Medical disclaimer: This article provides general educational information about growing and caring for herbs.

It is not a diagnosis or a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Sources:

• FDA — Mixing Medications and Dietary Supplements Can Endanger Your Health
• MedlinePlus — Recognizing Medical Emergencies

Helpful Supplies for Starting Your Medicinal Herb Garden

You do not need an elaborate setup to grow herbs from seed. A few practical gardening supplies can help you organize your planting space, care for young seedlings, and keep track of the different varieties in your Medicinal Garden Kit.

• Seed-starting trays: Useful for sowing multiple varieties separately and monitoring their early growth. Choose trays with suitable drainage and enough room for the seedlings.
• Plant pots with drainage holes: Helpful when growing herbs in containers, especially if you have limited outdoor space. Choose pot sizes according to the mature plant and its root system.
• Waterproof plant labels: Make it easier to identify seedlings and record sowing dates. Label each variety clearly to avoid confusion as plants develop.
• Seed-starting mix: An optional supply formulated for seed germination. Follow the seed supplier’s instructions for sowing depth, moisture, and any special germination requirements.

Start with the supplies that match your available space and gardening experience. You can expand your setup as you learn how each plant grows.

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Herbs Come in a Medicinal Garden Kit?

The ten seed varieties listed for this Medicinal Garden Kit are chicory, yarrow, California poppy, marshmallow, chamomile, evening primrose, lavender, echinacea, calendula, and feverfew.

Check the current product listing and your seed packets to confirm the varieties supplied with your order.

Is a Medicinal Garden Kit Suitable for Beginner Gardeners?

A kit can be a useful starting point for learning about herbs and flowering plants.

However, the varieties may have different germination requirements, sunlight needs, and watering preferences.

Beginners should read the instructions for each seed and label plants clearly as they grow.

How Long Do Herbal Seeds Remain Viable?

Seed viability depends on the species, initial seed quality, age, and storage conditions.

Keep seeds in a cool, dry location and follow the supplier’s storage instructions.

Do not assume that every variety will remain viable for the same number of years.

Can I Grow All the Herbs Indoors in Pots?

Not necessarily.

Some varieties can grow in suitable containers, but others may need more sunlight, space, or root depth than an indoor setup provides.

Consider the mature size and growing requirements of each plant before choosing a pot or indoor location.

Do the Plants in a Medicinal Garden Kit Come Back Every Year?

That depends on the species. Some plants are annuals, some are biennials, and others are perennials.

Annuals generally complete their life cycle within one growing season, while biennials typically take two growing seasons.

Perennials can live for several years under suitable conditions.

Some plants may also self-seed, depending on the species and growing environment.

Important: Growing medicinal herbs does not automatically make them safe or effective treatments.

Identify each plant correctly and research its safety before considering any medicinal use.

📅 Last updated: October 21, 2026