The young crop needs to be adequately watered to establish well. Weed and insect status should be checked daily during the establishment phase, and continued frequently throughout the life of the crop. Weed problems should be tackled immediately as the job gets harder as the weeds get bigger. If they are allowed to set seed, you have increased your workload for years into the future. This is, however, a very generalised statement taking little account of plant type and inherent soil fertility.
Minimal equipment is required for small scale, intensive production.
If producing your own seedlings a vacuum seeder would be useful, and a controlled environment plastic or glass house. This may not continue once larger areas of monoculture crops are grown. Mints and basil can suffer from rust problems in wetter areas. Harvesting and handling Washing the herb either before or after harvesting may reduce soil contamination. This can be critical if you have used organic fertilisers such as animal manures.