I've learned that the herbs really need to start growing in starter pots (window ledge size) with a combination of sun/shade and damp (not soaking) moisture. Once a few sprigs grow and a couple of leaves expand you can replant in a little larger pot (bigger than the window sill, but smaller than yard potter) with fertilizer made for herbs (vegetables) - but keep the water and Sun/shade same as in starter planter. Finger trim the leaves before they turn brown (in different climates = different leaf changing times). What ever you do try not to get discouraged... the only heb I found so far that grows the best up here in Washington state (PNW) is our Parsley and its pretty hardy too. Our Thyme died before the stem/leaves barely broke the surface... we didn't try that one again yet.
I don't know anything about Eggplants and cabbage, but this link:
http://www.bonnieplants.com/LearnGro...-Eggplant.aspx and this link:
http://www.harvestwizard.com/2009/01...w_cabbage.html
could be more helpful than I am.
Another option is "Goggling" what your problem/question is and choosing one of the other dozen other links (unless someone in here can assist you more). Good Luck, and happy cooking!
:pumpki nsg 
