Best Herbs to Grow Indoors: Year-Round Freshness

Gardening has always been a popular hobby for everyone. However, many people choose indoor gardens instead of outdoor ones because they are more convenient and easy to grow healthy plants. Indoor gardens allow people to enjoy fresh plants all year long. Growing herbs inside the house is a great idea for those who love the smell and taste of fresh plants.

Herbs are plants with strong smells and flavors. They are used for food, medicine, and even spiritual purposes. In the kitchen, herbs are often added to dishes and salads to boost flavor and aroma. Many herbs, including basil, thyme, chives, mint, oregano, parsley, chervil, and rosemary, can be grown indoors. Having herbs in the kitchen provides freshness and great smells. Indoor gardening means growers don’t have to go to the store to buy fresh herbs for the salads, soups, and chicken dishes.

Visit Growcycle for a variety of indoor gardening products. They offer everything growers need for a great gardening experience, from tools and pots to seeds and plants.

Benefits of Herbs for Indoor Gardening

Indoor gardening with herbs offers several benefits, both for the environment and personal well-being. Here are some key advantages:

Saves Money 

Indoor herbs can help to save money. Natural herbs can be expensive, but growing them at home makes them available for free. With an indoor garden, fresh leaves or dried herbs can be cut and added to salads, sauces, stuffing, and other dishes without going to the store.

Greener and Fresher Surroundings 

Herbs for indoor gardening are very helpful as they keep the surroundings greener and fresher. They are easy to plant and can be moved around the house, bringing the refreshing feeling of green leaves into the home. Herbs also have a positive effect on mental health and can improve moods.

Healthier Environment 

Herbs are a big source of a healthier environment. They help to keep the air fresh and aromatic. Homegrown herbs are more sustainable as they are natural without any chemical nutrients or fertilizer. 

Low maintenance

Herbs for indoor gardening require less maintenance than outdoor plants. They are small in size, so they don’t take up much space and can be placed anywhere in the house. An indoor herb garden is easy to maintain with just a little love and care.

Fresh and Natural Taste

Homegrown herbs are fresh and have a natural aroma. Indoor herbs are free from pests and grow in a natural environment, so there is less need for harmful chemical sprays. Freshly grown herbs taste and smell better than store-bought ones, which can lose their freshness due to packaging.

Add Aesthetics   

Indoor herbs are small and compact, so they can be placed on windowsills or on terraces. Their natural green leaves and decorative pots add beauty and a sense of style to the home. The fresh green herbs also give off a pleasant aroma.

Health Safety

Herbs grown indoors are healthier because no chemicals are used. Homegrown herbs are safer and fresher, and adding them to food can promote better health.

Best Herbs for Indoor Gardening 

Many herbs thrive indoors with the right care, providing a constant supply of flavors for cooking and adding greenery to the home. Here are some of the best herbs to grow indoors:

1. Basil

Basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow indoors, making it a favorite for beginner gardeners. It needs plenty of sunlight, so a windowsill with direct light is ideal. Basil grows quickly and can be harvested regularly to provide fresh leaves for cooking.

It adds flavor to dishes like pasta, pizza, salads, and sauces. Basil is also a wonderful addition to homemade pesto or a garnish for various dishes.

2. Oregano

Oregano is a perennial herb that originates in Mediterranean countries. It is highly aromatic and gives foods a unique flavor. Oregano is one of the best herbs for indoor gardening as it grows very comfortably with less water and moisture in well-draining soil. It prefers warm weather and sunshine, so it is a suitable indoor herb to decorate the kitchen window. The average height of this herb is 8 to 12 inches. 

3. Parsley 

Parsley is a versatile herb that’s easy to grow indoors. It doesn't require much space, making it a great choice for apartments or homes with limited room. Parsley grows best with moderate sunlight and regular watering.

Parsley can be harvested a little at a time, so it continues to grow throughout the year. It is perfect for adding to salads, soups, and stews or as a garnish for dishes. It also provides a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.

4. Thyme  

Thyme is often used in Mediterranean and Italian cooking to season meats, soups, stews, and roasted vegetables. Its small leaves are packed with flavor and can be easily dried or frozen for later use.

Thyme is a great choice for anyone looking to grow an herb that adds depth to dishes. To dry the thyme leaves, cut the whole stem from the bud and leave it in a dry place far from the sun. The average mature height of this herb is 6 to 8 inches. 

4. Rosemary 

Rosemary is a perennial shrub of the mint family with an aromatic flavor. It is an ideal herb for indoor gardening. The fresh leaves taste bitter, while the dried rosemary is used to season foods, seafood, stuffing, stews, soups, and vegetables.

It grows best in full sun with well-draining soil. It is also great for making herbal oils or adding to homemade marinades. Rosemary grows slowly, so it is a good idea to prune it occasionally to keep it from getting too woody.

5. Chives 

Chives are a perennial plant of the onion family. They are easy to grow in a pot or container. They grow best in a cool environment with indirect sunlight and regular watering. Chives are perfect for garnishing dishes like salads, potatoes, eggs, soups, and sandwiches.

Their mild onion flavor adds a fresh taste without being overpowering. Chives are easy to harvest, as they grow in clumps and can be cut back regularly to encourage more growth.

6. Peppermint 

Peppermint is an ideal herb for indoor gardening, with a strong aroma and flavor. It is a perennial herb of the mint family with a cooling menthol-like taste. It grows well in partial sun and gives a refreshing aroma to the indoors.

It gives a refreshing and cooling taste to candy, desserts, beverages, and salads. To harvest the mint, well-draining soil with moderate sunlight is perfect. The average height of this herb is 12 to 24 inches. 

7. Sage 

Sage is a perennial herb of the mint family originating from the Mediterranean region. Its velvety green leaves make it aromatic and flavorful. Sage is ideal for seasoning poultry, stuffing, and pork.

To harvest, it needs a lot of sunshine and well-draining soil. It is easy to grow by cutting the stems just above a set of leaves. The herb's height is 12 to 24 inches.

8. Cilantro

Cilantro is a popular herb in many cuisines, especially Mexican, Indian, and Asian cooking. It grows well indoors with enough sunlight and regular watering. Cilantro needs a bit of extra care as it can bolt (flower) quickly in hot weather, so it’s important to keep it in a cooler spot with consistent moisture.

Cilantro is commonly used in salsas, curries, salads, and soups. Its fresh leaves add a bright, citrusy flavor to dishes, while the seeds (coriander) are used as a spice in cooking.

9. Mint

Mint grows well indoors because it is a strong herb that grows fast and is easy to care for. It does not need much sunlight, so it works well in places with indirect light. The soil should stay moist but not too wet to keep it healthy. Since mint spreads quickly, growing it in its own pot is best to stop it from taking over other plants.

Pro Tips to Care Indoor Herbs    

Taking care of indoor herbs is easy and fun with the right tips. Here are some simple tips to help indoor herbs grow healthy and strong:

1. Provide Enough Sunlight

Herbs need sunlight to grow well. Most herbs, like basil, rosemary, and thyme, need about 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. Placing herbs on a sunny windowsill works best, or using grow lights if natural light is not enough. Herbs like mint and parsley can grow with indirect light, but they still need some sunlight to stay healthy.

2. Water Properly

Herbs don’t like too much or too little water. Most indoor herbs prefer the soil to be slightly dry on top but still moist underneath. Water the herbs when the top inch of soil feels dry. Make sure the pots have drainage holes so water doesn’t collect at the bottom. Always empty any extra water that gathers in the saucer under the pot to avoid root problems.

3. Choose the Right Pots

Herbs need pots with good drainage. Pots with holes at the bottom let water flow out and keep the soil from getting too wet. If using decorative pots without holes, it’s best to place the herb pot inside a larger pot with holes.

4. Use Well-Drained Soil

Herbs need soil that drains well. Choose a good potting mix made for herbs or indoor plants. Growers can also mix in some sand or small stones to help the soil drain better, especially for herbs like rosemary and thyme that prefer dry soil.

5. Maintain the Right Temperature

Indoor herbs grow best in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Keep herbs away from cold drafts or heat sources like air conditioners or heaters. A stable temperature helps herbs grow strong and healthy.

6. Fertilize Occasionally

Herbs need nutrients to grow, but not too much. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month in the spring and summer. Be careful not to use too much, which can cause weak growth. During the winter, herbs don’t need as much fertilizer, so stopping or using less is okay.

7. Prune Regularly

Regular pruning helps herbs grow well and stay healthy. Trim the tips of the plants to encourage new growth and remove any dead or yellow leaves. For herbs like basil, it's important to trim off any flowers, as they can affect the flavor of the leaves.

8. Repot When Needed

As herbs grow, their roots may become crowded. When this happens, they may need a larger pot. Choose a pot that’s just a little bigger than the current one, as herbs don’t need much extra space. Repotting also refreshes the soil, giving the herbs more nutrients.

How to Grow Indoor Herbs?

Growing indoor herbs is simple and can be done with just a little care. Here are the steps to successfully grow herbs indoors:

Choose the Right Herbs

Not all herbs grow well indoors, so choosing the right ones is important. Some of the best herbs for indoor gardening include basil, mint, parsley, thyme, rosemary, oregano, chives, and cilantro. These herbs thrive indoors with proper care and grow well in containers.

Grow Herbs in Separate Pots 

Ventilated pots and containers are necessary for indoor plantations. Herbs always grow better in terra cotta pots or containers, which are breathable, allowing the herbs to grow with more power and refreshment. Here are the steps to grow herbs in separate pots:

• Fill the pot halfway with a high-quality potting soil mix. Use a scoop to ensure an even layer for proper root expansion.

• Carefully remove the herb from its original plastic container.
• Place the herb in the center of the pot, ensuring the root ball is level with the top of the soil.

• Add additional soil around the herb, gently pressing down to eliminate air pockets.
• Avoid burying the herb too deep to ensure the base of the plant sits just below the pot's rim.

• Lightly tamp the soil down to secure the plant, ensuring it’s firmly in place without compacting it too much.

• Water the herb thoroughly after planting. Ensure the water drains from the bottom to prevent waterlogging and moisten the soil.

Grow Herbs with Seeds 

To grow herbs with seeds, here are the steps to follow: 

• Choose a container or pot with drainage holes and fill it with a well-draining potting mix, leaving a small gap at the top for easy watering.

• Sprinkle the herb seeds evenly on top of the soil. Do not overcrowd them, as they need space to grow.

• Gently add a thin layer of soil over the seeds, just enough to cover them lightly. Avoid packing the soil too tightly, as seeds need airflow to germinate.

• Water the pot gently to moisten the soil without washing away the seeds. Keep the soil damp but not soggy throughout the germination process.

• Cover the pot with plastic wrap or a clear plastic dome to maintain moisture and warmth, encouraging seed germination.

• Once the seeds begin to sprout and seedlings appear, remove the plastic cover to allow the young plants to acclimate to the air.

Challenges and Solutions to Grow Herbs Indoors

When growing herbs indoors, there are common mistakes to avoid to help keep the plants healthy:

• Not Enough Light: Most herbs need a lot of light to grow well. They can become weak if placed in a dark area or near a window with little sunlight. A south-facing window or grow lights can provide the needed light.
• Overwatering: Overwatering is a common mistake. Herbs like well-drained soil and should not sit in water. It is important to check the soil before watering. If the soil is dry, it’s time to water, but never let the pots sit in excess water.
• Underwatering: While overwatering is a problem, not watering enough can also harm the plants. Regular watering is needed, especially in dry indoor conditions, but not letting the plants dry out completely is important.
• Poor Drainage: Excess water can cause root rot without good drainage. The pots should have drainage holes, and the soil should be well-draining.
• Wrong Temperature: Most herbs grow best in temperatures between 60–70°F. If they are placed in an environment that is too hot or too cold, like near heaters or air conditioners, they can stress.
• Not Enough Air Circulation: Indoor spaces can be stuffy, which can lead to mold or pests. Good air circulation is important. Using a fan or placing the plants in a well-ventilated area can help.
• Wrong Soil: Regular garden soil is too heavy and doesn’t drain well for herbs. A light, well-draining potting mix is better, especially one made for herbs or vegetables.
• Not Fertilizing: Herbs can use up the nutrients in the soil over time. Although occasionally fertilizing with a balanced, organic fertilizer is important, it’s important not to over-fertilize because it can make the plants weak or leggy.
• Not Pruning: Herbs need regular pruning to grow better and to avoid becoming woody. Picking off the tops and trim any dead or yellowing leaves is important.
• Ignoring Pests: Even indoor plants can be attacked by pests like aphids or spider mites. Regularly checking the herbs for pests and taking action quickly will help keep them healthy.

FAQs

Can herbs grow indoors all year?

Yes, herbs can grow indoors all year if they receive enough light, water, and care. Many herbs, like basil, parsley, thyme, and mint, can thrive indoors during all seasons if placed in a spot with good sunlight or under grow lights.

What is the best soil mix for indoor herbs?

The best mix is light, well-draining, and nutrient-rich. Combine 2 parts potting soil, 1 part perlite, and 1 part coconut coir or peat moss. If desired, add a small amount of compost for extra nutrients.

Do herbs need direct sunlight?

Yes, most herbs need 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow well. If sunlight is limited, placing them near a bright window or using grow lights can help them thrive indoors.

The Bottom Line 

Herbs for indoor gardening are great for creating a healthier and fresher environment. To grow herbs at home, choosing the right climate and location is important. An indoor herb garden is easy to maintain by providing proper light, water, humidity, and temperature based on the needs of the plants. These indoor gardens not only improve air quality but also improve the look of the home.

Growcycle offers the best herbs for indoor gardening. They also provide gardening tools and equipment, such as various soil mixes, insecticides, and pots, to support indoor gardening and herb cultivation.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, where he covers the latest news, trends, and innovations in sustainable agriculture. He has a deep passion for storytelling that emphasizes ecological balance and responsible farming practices.

Before joining Growcycle, Victor worked for several agricultural and environmental publications, reporting on significant environmental issues and interviewing key figures in the sustainability sector. His work has been featured in various industry journals and online platforms.