Millennials and Gen Z lead the herb garden revival

In a dynamic shift from traditional gardening demographics, millennials and Gen Z are spearheading a green revolution, transforming urban spaces into lush, productive gardens. Recent studies reveal that more than 70% of individuals aged 18 to 35 say they're passionate about gardening, and another 83% deem it cool.

The roots of the herb garden revival

The earliest humans relied on farming for their survival. After the Industrial Revolution, families found gardening a cherished hobby that could save them money. However, Generation Z and millennials have unexpectedly driven an upward trend recently. As they leave behind the moniker of children of the digital age, these generations embrace the tactile, hands-on experience of growing their herbs.

An herb garden is a simple and accessible way to garden, requiring minimal space and effort to grow basil, thyme, mint, rosemary, and other fresh greens. Millennials — those aged between 29 and 44 — and Gen Z — those between 13 and 28 — have grown up with mobile phones, video games and the internet. But these generations are increasingly taking breaks from screen time to garden.

In reports on the gardening industry, garden trade show Glee notes that more than 70% of adults aged 18 to 35 are interested in gardening. Millennial customers have increased by 65% at gardening stores, and Gen Zers have grown by 40%.

Several factors push these generations towards outdoor or indoor herb gardens. As younger generations become a larger group in the overall market, their choice to focus their time and money on herb gardening reflects the values important to them. Whether you are a millennial, Gen Z, or another generation, these reasons may inspire you to start your own herb garden.

How Millennials and Gen Z reconnect with nature in the garden

Screens dominate in the digital age. The 2024 Gen Z Screen Time report by dcdx found that mobile phone usage among Gen Z increased to an average of 7 hours and 22 minutes per day. With business and education also becoming digital, the average Zillennial virtually experiences much of their world.

Herb gardens are a tangible way to engage with nature and experience the joy of growing something. For those with limited time, space, skill, or finances, herb gardens are an accessible way to satisfy the craving to return to nature.

Herb gardens are the ultimate solution for small-space gardening

Even for those interested in gardening, space is a luxury for many millennials and Gen Z. Despite the desire to have larger yards for gardening, millennials have been slower to buy homes than their parents. According to Motley Fool, only 42% of millennials owned homes by age 30, compared to 48% of Generation X. With rising home costs, many millennials are apartment or condominium dwellers. Likewise, Gen Zers are moving into their first apartments.

With little to no yard, a vegetable garden can require too much space for many Zillennials. Herb gardens are the perfect option for small spaces. Hanging planters, pots, or gardening grow bags on a balcony are large enough to hold various herbs. Indoors, herbs can thrive in a windowsill or sunny kitchen.

Save money by growing your herbs

The under-44-year-old crowd came of age during periods of economic uncertainty—the Great Recession, rising student loan debt, and now skyrocketing inflation. With cost-consciousness in mind, House and Garden says young people turn to something tangible and more self-sustaining, and growing herbs at home is an easy way to cut down on grocery expenses.

Fresh herbs can cost several dollars per small bundle at the grocery store. If you've ever thrown away wilted herbs after using just a few sprigs, buying herbs can also feel wasteful. By nurturing your own, you can reduce waste and cost by growing and picking only what you need.

Herb gardens are also affordable to start. Unlike traditional vegetable gardens that may require beds, irrigation and equipment, a few herb garden tools, soil, sunlight and water are enough for herbs to flourish.

Promoting sustainability and health with an herb garden

Sustainability and wellness are priorities for both millennials and Gen Z. In their market research, the healthy-eating app Lifesum found that 62% of young adults would cut back on fashion spending, 55% on technology and 34% on travel to have more money for healthy eating. Consumer research firm Attest found that 70% of Gen Zers consider sustainability essential in their food choices.

Growing your own food has long been a way to get fresh, healthy, pesticide-free meals. It also reduces the environmental impact of shipping and supply chains. An herb garden is a great way to start small with sustainability and healthier eating.

Finding information and community in gardening in the Digital Age

Although a few minutes a day tending to an herb garden may provide a welcome break away from phone screens, technology is a major force in getting younger generations into gardening. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are filled with inspiration for home gardening. YouTube video tutorials and bloggers with step-by-step guidance on starting seeds and keeping them thriving help beginners find their green thumbs.

Online forums and social media have also developed gardening communities, allowing new growers to troubleshoot issues, swap tips, and share successes. Apps designed for tech-savvy gardeners can also help, with reminders to water and guidance on sunlight and soil for specific herb varieties.

Get started growing with an herb garden

Whether for financial savings, sustainability, health, or simply the joy of growing something, millennials and Gen Z are leading the herb garden revival. With a few pots, some seeds, and a little care, anyone — regardless of experience or age — can start growing their herbs. Join others living the herb garden trend this spring and summer and bring more fresh flavors to your life.

More Gardening Help

If you're looking for even more detailed information, check out our gardening section of the website. If you still have questions, let me know in the comments section below, or contact me in our private Facebook group.

LEARN HOW TO HARVEST, CLEAN, AND PRESERVE YOUR HERBS

Discover how to harvest, clean, and preserve your fresh herbs effectively, allowing you to enjoy their taste year-round. This course includes printable handouts and videos that take you step-by-step to ensure you get the most from your herbs!