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 more than 70% of individuals aged 18 to 35 say they’re passionate about gardening. 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 own 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 these generations. 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 experiences much of their world virtually.

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 for getting back 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. Only 42% of millennials owned homes by age 30 as compared to 48% of Generation X, according to Motley Fool. 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 for various herbs. Indoors, herbs can thrive in a windowsill or sunny kitchen.

Save money by growing your own 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, 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 and 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 home gardening inspiration. YouTube video tutorials and bloggers with step-by-step guidance on how to start seeds and keep them thriving help beginners find their green thumbs.

Online forums and social media have also developed gardening communities, providing space for 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 own herbs. Join others living the herb garden trend this spring and summer and bring more fresh flavors to your life.

Margaret Smith is the creator of Days Well Spent, a blog dedicated to balanced recipes, homestead resources and gardening classes. Since 2005, she has shared her passion for homegrown living with thousands of readers and social media followers. Margaret develops healthy, wholesome recipes inspired by life on her farm in Texas, where she lives with her family.