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%.

HOW MILLENNIALS AND GEN Z RECONNECT WITH NATURE

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 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.

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.

PROMOTING SUSTAINABILITY, 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.

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.