In the years 2000-2002 a field experiment aiming comparison of production effects of direct sowing and seedlings produced in multi-cell transplanting trays of chosen medicinal plants (valerian, lemon balm, lovage, basil, thyme, sage and rue) was carried out. The experiment was led on silty (loess origin) soil. Transplants production in multi-cell trays resulted in growth period prolongation, which had positive effect on plant size and raw material yields from the area unit. However, an increase of essential oil content in raw material obtained from objects with direct sowing was noted. On the contrary, essential oil yields of all compared species were higher on plots with seedlings transplanting. Therefore, on silty, encrusted soil (loess type) herbs transplants produced in multi-cell trays should be recommended for plantation establishment.