Store-bought herbs wilt fast and lack the flavor punch homegrown ones offer. Growing your herbs indoors is easier than you think and adds a burst of freshness to your cooking every single day. With just a windowsill, a few pots, and patience, you can create your mini herb garden right inside your home.
This beginner-friendly guide covers the 16 easiest herbs to grow, even if you’ve never planted a thing before. From vibrant basil to calming chamomile, each one brings its charm to your kitchen.
Say goodbye to wilted bundles and hello to fresh, flavorful greens all year long 🌱✨🪴
🌿 1. Basil
Basil is arguably one of the most popular culinary herbs, prized for its fragrant leaves and versatility in dishes like pesto, pasta, and salads. Indoors, basil is fast-growing and relatively easy to care for, but it does have some specific requirements. Basil needs plenty of sunlight—at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day—which makes a south-facing window ideal. Alternatively, using full-spectrum grow lights can help basil flourish in low-light homes. Basil prefers consistently moist, well-draining organic soil, and it’s important to water it at the base of the plant rather than overhead to prevent fungal diseases.
Basil is a tender annual, which means it completes its life cycle within a year and is sensitive to cold. Indoor basil should be grown in containers that are at least 6–8 inches deep to accommodate its root system. A key to keeping basil productive is regular pruning. Pinch off the top leaves before the plant flowers to encourage bushier growth. According to the USDA, fresh basil has become one of the top three fresh herbs sold in the U.S. grocery market, generating over $150 million annually, reflecting both its popularity and market viability for home growers.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Bright, direct sunlight or full-spectrum grow light
Consistently moist, well-draining potting mix
Warm indoor temperature: 70–85°F (21–29°C)
🚫 What to Avoid:
Cold drafts or placing near air conditioners
Overwatering or waterlogged soil
Allowing the plant to flower too early (this stunts leaf growth)
🌿 2. Mint
Mint is one of the hardiest and most forgiving herbs to grow indoors. It’s perfect for beginners because it grows rapidly, adapts well to containers, and can bounce back from neglect. Peppermint and spearmint are the two most popular varieties, each with its unique aroma and culinary applications—from teas and cocktails to savory dishes. Indoors, mint prefers bright, indirect light and can even tolerate partial shade, making it versatile for various placements within the home. The soil should be rich in organic matter and remain consistently moist but not soggy.
Mint spreads aggressively via underground rhizomes, so it’s best to grow it in its pot to prevent it from overtaking other herbs. Containers should be at least 8 inches wide and 6 inches deep, with good drainage. Mint thrives in humidity, so misting the leaves or placing a water tray nearby can simulate its preferred environment. While mint is incredibly resilient, it can become leggy if it doesn’t get enough light or isn’t pruned regularly. Cutting stems just above the leaf node promotes bushy growth and more aromatic leaves.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Bright, indirect light or fluorescent lighting
Moist, well-aerated soil rich in organic content
High humidity and good air circulation
🚫 What to Avoid:
Letting the soil dry out completely
Overcrowding with other herbs
Allowing it to flower, which reduces flavor potency
🌿 3. Rosemary
Rosemary is a woody, perennial herb that thrives in full sun and drier soil conditions, making it a perfect herb for windowsills that get plenty of light. With a distinct pine-like aroma and robust flavor, it’s commonly used in roasts, stews, and infused oils. Rosemary’s secret to thriving indoors lies in mimicking its natural Mediterranean environment. It needs 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily and prefers a well-draining sandy or cactus mix soil. Unlike basil or mint, rosemary does not like wet roots; the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
The herb can be grown from seed, but cuttings from a mature plant tend to root faster and are more reliable. Containers must have excellent drainage and be at least 10 inches deep, as rosemary develops a deep root system. Because it prefers drier conditions, rosemary is also less prone to fungal diseases, but it can suffer from powdery mildew if air circulation is poor. Pruning should focus on cutting woody stems, which promotes new soft growth. As rosemary matures, it can be trained into topiary shapes or even grown as a small bonsai-style shrub indoors.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Full sunlight (south or southwest-facing window)
Gritty, sandy soil with excellent drainage
Moderate indoor temperatures: 60–75°F (15–24°C)
🚫 What to Avoid:
Overwatering or high humidity
Poor airflow around the plant
Growing in too small a pot, which restricts root development
🌿 4. Thyme
Thyme is a compact, low-maintenance herb known for its earthy flavor and versatility in cooking. It’s an excellent candidate for indoor gardening because it thrives in small containers, requires little attention, and tolerates dry conditions. Thyme prefers 6 hours of bright, direct light daily, but can also adapt to grow lights when placed under them for 10–12 hours a day. The soil should be light and sandy with good drainage. Like rosemary, thyme does not tolerate overwatering and should be watered only when the top inch of soil is dry.
What sets thyme apart is its slow, creeping growth habit, which makes it ideal for windowsill planters or hanging containers. Its small, aromatic leaves can be harvested regularly, and frequent clipping will keep the plant healthy and bushy. Thyme is a perennial in most climates, so with proper care, it can last for years indoors. Though it’s fairly resistant to pests and disease, thyme can be prone to root rot if grown in heavy or compacted soil. Propagation is easy via division or semi-woody stem cuttings.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Full sun or 10–12 hours under grow lights
Dry, sandy soil in a small, shallow pot
Low humidity and moderate temperatures: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
🚫 What to Avoid:
Excess water or water sitting in the saucer
Growing in overly rich soil can reduce flavor.
Not harvesting enough—thyme loves a regular trim
🌿 5. Chives
Chives are a member of the allium family and closely related to onions and garlic. They are one of the easiest herbs to grow indoors, especially in small spaces, thanks to their grass-like structure and tolerance for various conditions. Chives add a subtle onion flavor to dishes like omelets, baked potatoes, soups, and dips. They grow best in bright, indirect light, though they can tolerate moderate lighting with the help of a fluorescent or LED grow light. What makes chives especially beginner-friendly is their low maintenance and ability to regrow quickly after each harvest.
Chives grow best in well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter. Pots should be at least 6 inches deep with adequate drainage. Watering should be consistent, keeping the soil slightly moist without allowing it to become soggy. One advantage of growing chives indoors is that they are rarely troubled by pests. When harvesting, always snip from the base, which stimulates new shoots. Chives are perennials and will return each year with proper care. Their thin, tubular leaves and edible purple flowers also make them a visually pleasing addition to any windowsill herb garden.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
6–8 hours of indirect light or 12+ hours under grow lights
Loamy, well-draining soil kept consistently moist
Cool to moderate temperatures: 60–70°F (15–21°C)
🚫 What to Avoid:
Cutting too close to the soil (leave at least 1–2 inches)
Letting the soil dry out completely
Crowded growth — thin seedlings to encourage airflow
🌿 6. Parsley
Parsley is a staple herb in global cuisines and is prized for its fresh, mildly bitter flavor that complements both cooked and raw dishes. While parsley has a reputation for being slightly slower to germinate (taking 14 to 28 days), once established, it grows steadily indoors with the right care. It prefers bright, indirect light and can also thrive under fluorescent grow lights if natural light is limited. Parsley prefers deep containers (at least 8 inches) and moist, nutrient-rich soil that drains well but retains enough moisture.
Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley is generally favored for its stronger flavor over curly parsley, which is often used for garnish. Consistent watering is key—parsley does not tolerate dry soil well, especially during early growth. One technical aspect to monitor is root development; parsley grows a long taproot, which means a deep container is essential for healthy growth. Parsley benefits from regular harvesting: snip the outer leaves first and allow the inner leaves to mature. According to data from the National Gardening Association, parsley is one of the top five herbs grown by home gardeners in the U.S., illustrating its popularity and accessibility for beginners.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Bright indirect light or grow light for 12–14 hours/day
Rich, loamy soil in a deep pot (8 inches minimum)
Steady watering schedule; don’t allow it to dry out
🚫 What to Avoid:
Shallow pots that hinder root development
Overcrowding or planting near fast-growing herbs
Cutting inner stems prematurely (harvest from the outside in)
🌿 7. Oregano
Oregano is a woody perennial herb that’s a must-have for lovers of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine. It offers a bold, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor that intensifies when dried. Indoors, oregano thrives in bright, direct light, requiring at least 6 hours per day or supplemented with full-spectrum LED grow lights. The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil, similar to thyme and rosemary, and does best in slightly dry conditions. Watering should be done only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Oregano grows well in containers that are at least 8 inches in diameter and depth. It should be pruned regularly to prevent it from becoming too woody and to promote new leafy growth. The flavor of oregano leaves is strongest just before the plant flowers, so that’s the best time to harvest for drying or cooking. It’s also known to repel pests like aphids and spider mites, making it a useful companion plant indoors. Oregano can be propagated through cuttings or division, making it easy to multiply your supply once your first plant is thriving.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Full sunlight (6+ hours) or 12+ hours under grow lights
Well-draining sandy or cactus soil mix
Low humidity and moderate room temperatures (65–75°F)
🚫 What to Avoid:
Overwatering or soil that remains constantly moist
Harvesting too early before sufficient growth
Failing to prune regularly, leading to woody stems
🌿 8. Sage
Sage is a robust, aromatic herb valued for its savory flavor and medicinal properties. It’s commonly used in poultry dishes, stuffing, teas, and even as a natural cleaning agent. Indoor sage requires a lot of direct sunlight—ideally 6 to 8 hours per day—making a south-facing window the best placement. Sage prefers well-draining, loamy or sandy soil and doesn’t like to sit in wet conditions. Watering should be moderate; let the top of the soil dry out between sessions. Sage is drought-tolerant, which makes it a forgiving plant for new herb gardeners.
This herb grows best in containers at least 10 inches deep, allowing its strong root system to develop fully. Sage benefits greatly from air circulation, so avoid clustering it too close to other plants. It is slow-growing at first, but once established, it becomes a perennial powerhouse that can last for several years indoors with proper care. Frequent pruning helps the plant remain bushy and productive. While sage is less commonly afflicted by pests, it can suffer from powdery mildew if airflow is restricted or humidity is too high indoors.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Full sun or 12–14 hours of artificial light
Loamy, well-draining soil and deep pots
Moderate to low humidity with good air circulation
🚫 What to Avoid:
Constantly wet soil or overwatering
Placing in dark or shady locations
Neglecting to prune, which can lead to sparse, woody stems
🌿 9. Cilantro (Coriander)
Cilantro is a fast-growing annual herb with a distinctive citrusy flavor, commonly used in Latin American, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. It’s unique in that both its leaves (cilantro) and seeds (coriander) are used in cooking. Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C), making it suitable for indoor environments. It requires 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily or 10–12 hours under a full-spectrum grow light. Due to its long taproot, cilantro is best grown in deep pots of at least 10–12 inches with well-draining soil.
Technically, cilantro has a quick growth cycle and tends to bolt (go to seed) early if exposed to high temperatures or insufficient watering. To prevent this, consistent moisture and cooler positioning are key. Harvesting cilantro regularly delays bolting and encourages bushier growth. Snip outer leaves while allowing the inner shoots to grow. For ongoing use, consider succession planting every 2–3 weeks, as the herb can fade quickly once it bolts. A 2022 USDA gardening report listed cilantro as one of the most commonly regrown herbs in U.S. households due to its affordability and culinary popularity.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Cool location with 4–6 hours of sunlight
Loose, well-draining soil and a deep container (10–12 inches)
Moderate watering; avoid waterlogging
🚫 What to Avoid:
High indoor heat or full-day exposure to strong sunlight
Harvesting from the center stunts growth
Letting the plant dry out, which triggers early flowering
🌿 10. Dill
Dill is a wispy, feathery herb with a mild anise-like flavor, commonly used in pickling, soups, fish dishes, and sauces. As a quick-growing annual, dill thrives indoors with at least 5 hours of direct sunlight or under high-intensity fluorescent or LED lights for 12–14 hours daily. The plant prefers well-aerated, loamy soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0) and should be grown in deep containers (10–12 inches) to accommodate its long taproot.
Due to its tall, slender structure, dill benefits from support stakes as it matures indoors. It’s highly sensitive to root disturbance, so it’s better to sow seeds directly in the final container rather than transplanting. Once it reaches 8–12 inches tall, you can begin snipping sprigs from the top, which encourages fuller lateral growth. Dill can also attract beneficial insects if grown near open windows or on balconies during warmer seasons. Indoors, it generally avoids most pests and thrives with minimal fertilization — use a balanced, diluted fertilizer once monthly if needed.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
5+ hours of sun or 12–14 hours of grow light
Deep, well-drained pot and loamy, light soil
Cool indoor temperatures with some airflow
🚫 What to Avoid:
Transplanting young seedlings, which causes shock
Letting the soil dry completely between waterings
Cramped containers, which inhibit root development
🌿 11. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is a soothing herb known for its mild citrus scent and calming effects, often used in teas, essential oils, and desserts. Lemon balm is a vigorous grower indoors, tolerating both moderate and bright light. It performs best in direct morning sun (4–6 hours) or under a 14-hour artificial light cycle. Soil should be rich, slightly acidic (pH 6.0–7.0), and well-draining. Lemon balm enjoys humidity but not waterlogging, so a humidity tray or misting can help during drier months.
This herb has a tendency to grow leggy, so frequent pruning is essential to maintain a bushy, compact shape. Harvest leaves regularly by pinching the tips, and the plant will reward you with lush regrowth. Lemon balm is highly aromatic and has mild pest-repellent properties, making it a great companion plant indoors. Its essential oils are even studied for mood-enhancing effects, with studies showing lemon balm extracts can improve calmness and memory in low doses (Kennedy et al., 2002, Northumbria University).
✅ Ideal Conditions:
4–6 hours of sun or 14 hours of grow light
Moist but well-drained, rich soil
Temperatures between 65°F–75°F and moderate humidity
🚫 What to Avoid:
Letting it flower early (which reduces leaf flavor)
Skipping regular trimming, leading to leggy growth
Overwatering, which leads to root rot
🌿 12. Bay Laurel (Bay Leaf)
Bay laurel is a slow-growing evergreen shrub whose aromatic leaves are commonly used to flavor stews, soups, and sauces. While not a delicate herb, it’s one of the few perennial herbs that can grow as a small tree or bush indoors. Bay requires 6–8 hours of bright, direct light and thrives near south-facing windows or under strong LED grow lights. Unlike faster-growing herbs, bay laurel prefers a more stable environment with consistent temperature (60–75°F) and low humidity. The soil should be well-drained, sandy or loamy, and pots should be at least 12 inches deep.
Bay leaves grow slowly, and it’s important to harvest sparingly. Use mature leaves, which are darker and more fragrant, and allow new leaves to develop. It is drought-tolerant once established, so allow the top inch or two of soil to dry between waterings. It is sensitive to poor drainage and overwatering, which can lead to root rot and leaf drop. While the plant can live for years indoors, its growth rate is slow, making it best suited for patient growers looking for long-term culinary value.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Full sun, 6–8 hours daily, or strong grow light
Deep, sandy, or loamy soil with excellent drainage
Room temperature and dry-to-moderate humidity
🚫 What to Avoid:
Overharvesting leaves from young plants
Standing water in pots or poorly draining containers
Indoor cold drafts or radical temperature fluctuations
🌿 13. Thyme
Thyme is a hardy, woody-stemmed perennial herb widely used in Mediterranean cooking for its earthy, slightly minty flavor. It is highly drought-tolerant and adapts well to indoor container growing. For optimal growth, thyme needs 6–8 hours of direct sunlight or 12–14 hours of grow light exposure. It thrives in slightly alkaline soil (pH 7.0–7.5) with excellent drainage. Use shallow, wide containers (6–8 inches deep) to allow lateral root development.
Thyme should be pruned regularly to keep it from becoming woody and sparse. Allow the topsoil to dry out completely before watering, as thyme prefers dry conditions over damp ones. Avoid fertilizing thyme frequently; a light dose of organic fertilizer once every two months is sufficient. One great thing about thyme is that it’s resistant to most pests and diseases, making it perfect for beginners. According to a report by the National Gardening Association, thyme ranks among the top five herbs grown indoors in the U.S., due to its low maintenance and culinary utility.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
6–8 hours of sun or 12+ hours of grow light
Alkaline, sandy soil with excellent drainage
Occasional pruning and infrequent watering
🚫 What to Avoid:
Overwatering, which causes root rot
Heavy fertilization, which reduces flavor
High humidity or poorly ventilated areas
🌿 14. Tarragon (French Tarragon)
French tarragon is a fragrant, slightly bittersweet herb with a flavor reminiscent of anise or licorice, often used in classic French cuisine. It can be grown indoors from cuttings or nursery transplants (seeds are usually sterile and unreliable). Tarragon thrives in moderate temperatures (60–70°F) and needs 6 hours of indirect sunlight daily or 12+ hours under artificial lights. Choose well-drained, sandy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5–7.0), and plant in containers at least 10 inches deep.
Unlike some herbs, tarragon benefits from periods of dryness. Allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions, and avoid high humidity. Prune it regularly to promote bushier growth and better airflow. If your kitchen or growing space is dry and cool, tarragon will reward you with fragrant leaves for months. Once mature, only harvest the top 4–6 inches to encourage lateral shoots. If properly cared for, one tarragon plant can last for several seasons.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Moderate sunlight or strong grow light
Sandy, neutral pH soil, and deep containers
Dry, cool indoor climate with minimal humidity
🚫 What to Avoid:
Starting from seed, use cuttings or nursery plants
Constantly moist soil or overwatering
Sudden temperature changes
🌿 15. Marjoram
Often confused with oregano, marjoram has a milder, sweeter flavor and is ideal for meats, soups, and stews. This tender perennial is perfect for indoor growing as it prefers a warm, dry environment. Marjoram requires 5–6 hours of sunlight or 12+ hours under full-spectrum grow lights. It grows best in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and it does well in 8–10 inch pots.
Watering should be infrequent; allow the soil to dry completely between sessions. Marjoram dislikes humidity and performs best with good airflow, so keep it near a window or fan. Harvest leaves regularly by pinching stems above the node to encourage fuller growth. For indoor growers, marjoram is excellent because it’s resistant to root rot and common pests if not overwatered. It also has potential health benefits: Marjoram oil is studied for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
Bright indirect sun or grow lights
Light, well-draining soil with neutral pH
Dry conditions and regular harvesting
🚫 What to Avoid:
Humid corners with stagnant air
Frequent watering or soggy pots
Starting in heavy, clay-based soils
🌿 16. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a fast-growing tropical herb known for its bright citrus aroma and is a staple in Thai and Vietnamese cooking. It can be propagated from stalks bought at the grocery store (with the base intact). Simply root the stalks in water until they sprout (about 7–10 days), then transfer to deep pots (at least 12 inches) with rich, loamy, and well-drained soil. Lemongrass requires 12–14 hours of direct light or grow light daily and prefers warm temperatures above 70°F.
Unlike many herbs, lemongrass has high water needs and should be watered frequently, especially in warm or dry indoor climates. The plant grows in tight clumps and can reach 2–3 feet indoors if space allows. Its root system is extensive, so larger containers are better for long-term success. You can start harvesting once the stalks are thick and at least 12 inches tall. Simply cut them at the base and leave the rest to grow. Lemongrass is not only culinary but also has natural insect-repelling properties due to its high citronella content, making it a functional choice for indoor use.
✅ Ideal Conditions:
12+ hours of light or a south-facing window
Rich soil and frequent watering
Warm temperature (70°F+) and large containers
🚫 What to Avoid:
Poor drainage or compact soil
Cold drafts or low-light corners
Forgetting to rotate the plant to promote even growth