Why we tested the Burpee Organic Herb Growing Kit
Beginner herb growing kits live or die by their germination rate, because a kit that does not germinate reliably is a kit that turns first-time growers away from gardening entirely. Burpee claims 90% germination and backs it with a replacement guarantee. We ran a standardized germination trial to verify the claim and to assess whether the all-in-one format genuinely removes the setup barriers it promises to eliminate.
How we tested
We ran two parallel germination trials: one in optimal conditions (72 degrees F, consistent moisture, south-facing window) and one in more realistic beginner conditions (variable room temperature 65-78 degrees F, slightly inconsistent moisture management). We planted the full seed contents of two kits and counted germination at days 7, 10, and 14. We also timed the full setup process from box opening to seeds in pots. Testing followed our indoor herb garden methodology.
Performance: germination claims hold up, limitations are honest
Germination rates in optimal conditions: basil 92%, chives 90%, parsley 83%, overall average 88%. In more variable conditions: basil 84%, chives 86%, parsley 76%, average 82%. The claimed 90% is achievable under good conditions and close to realistic under typical beginner conditions. Parsley is the slowest and lowest-germinating of the three herbs in both trials, which is a characteristic of parsley seed in general rather than a Burpee-specific issue.
Setup time from box opening to seeds in expanded pellets was 8 minutes, which is genuinely faster than preparing individual pots with potting mix. The coir pellets expand fully within 5 minutes of water contact, and inserting seeds in the designated indentation requires no prior knowledge. The markers, instructions, and everything-included format live up to their beginner claims.
The transplanting step is the one place where beginner herb growing kits consistently fail to communicate expectations. We noted in the instructions that transplanting is mentioned but not emphasized. Many beginners leave seedlings in the 2-inch starter pots indefinitely, which stunts growth. The correct next step is transplanting the entire peat pot into a 4-6 inch container once seedlings reach 3-4 inches, and this should be clearer in the packaging.
Who should buy this
The Burpee Organic Herb Growing Kit is the right choice for first-time growers who want a no-guess, no-purchase starting point, for children’s herb growing projects, and as a gift for someone who wants to try growing herbs from seed without committing to a larger system. At $18 it is the lowest-cost reliable entry point in this category. For anyone who wants continuous year-round herb growing without concern about window light, the AeroGarden Harvest is a better long-term investment.
Burpee Organic Basil, Chive & Parsley Herb Growing Kit vs. the competition
| Product | Verdict |
|---|---|
| AeroGarden Harvest 6-Pod | Alternative - Faster growth, light-independent, 5.5x the price. |
| Mkono Windowsill Planter | Alternative - Better long-term pots, no seeds included, higher cost. |
| Generic Herb Seed Kits | Skip - Lower germination rates, non-certified seeds, poor instructions. |
| Click and Grow Smart Garden 9 | Alternative - Premium system with integrated light, 11x the price. |
Full specifications
| Herbs Included | Basil, chive, parsley |
| Seed Certification | USDA Organic, non-GMO |
| Growing Medium | Coir pellets (expand with water) |
| Pots Included | 3 peat pots |
| Claimed Germination Rate | 90% |
| Everything Included | Yes: pots, pellets, seeds, markers, instructions |
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Should you buy the Burpee Organic Basil, Chive & Parsley Herb Growing Kit?
The Burpee Organic Herb Growing Kit is the most beginner-friendly way to start herb growing from seed. Everything is included in one box, the pre-filled pellets expand with water before you plant, and the non-GMO certified seeds germinated at 88% in our trial, close to the claimed 90%. For someone who has never grown herbs from seed, this removes every decision and setup step. The limitation is the same as all soil-based kits: you need adequate window light.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to transplant the herbs after they sprout?+
Yes, within 4-6 weeks. The 2-inch peat pots are starter containers, not final homes. Once seedlings reach 3-4 inches with true leaves, transplant the entire peat pot (it biodegrades) into a 4-6 inch ceramic or plastic pot with good potting mix. Skipping this step leads to root-bound plants that stop growing.
What happens if my seeds do not germinate?+
Burpee offers a replacement guarantee for seeds that do not germinate under normal conditions. Contact their customer service with the lot number from the package. In our experience, germination failures in this kit were usually related to insufficient moisture during the germination window (the first 7-10 days) rather than seed quality.
Can I use this kit outdoors?+
Yes, it works well outdoors in appropriate seasons. Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your last frost date for basil (frost-tender) and earlier for chives and parsley (cold-tolerant). Outdoors after last frost date, basil grows vigorously if started directly in the Burpee pots on a warm patio or balcony.
📅 Update log
- May 26, 2026Initial review published after 4-week germination and seedling trial.
