Introduction
I used to think growing herbs was hard. I live in a small apartment, and most of my windows barely get light. But I love to cook with fresh herbs.
So I tried growing a few indoors.
And guess what? It worked.
You don’t need a garden or even much sun. You just need the right indoor herbs to grow year-round—and a simple setup.
This guide is for people like me: regular folks who want kitchen herbs to grow inside, without turning the living room into a jungle.
The Problem: Why Store-Bought Herbs Don’t Cut It
Here’s what I hated about store-bought herbs:
- They wilt in days
- They’re overpriced
- They lack flavor
- They come wrapped in plastic
I needed something better. I wanted herbs for cooking that were always fresh, right in my kitchen.
So I started looking into indoor herb gardening for beginners.
Why Indoor Herb Gardening Works
Even with low light and no yard, some herbs thrive inside.
Here’s why it’s worth it:
- Herbs don’t need much space
- They grow fast
- They’re low maintenance
- You can trim as needed
- It saves money and food waste
Most of all, fresh herbs taste better.
What Herbs Grow Well Indoors Year-Round?
I’ve tested many. These are my top picks for herbs that grow indoors without sunlight, grow fast, and don’t need much care.
🌱 1. Basil
- Light: Medium to bright (LED works too)
- Water: Every 3–4 days
- Flavor: Sweet, peppery
- Use for: Pasta, sauces, salads
If you’re thinking how to grow basil indoors, it’s the easiest to start with. Use cuttings or starter pods.
🌿 2. Mint
- Light: Low to medium
- Water: 2–3 times per week
- Flavor: Cool and sharp
- Use for: Tea, chutneys, mocktails
Mint is tough. It grows like a weed and does well in shady corners. It’s perfect for low light herbs indoor.
🌼 3. Parsley
- Light: Moderate
- Water: Steady moisture
- Flavor: Fresh, grassy
- Use for: Garnish, soups, sauces
Takes longer to sprout but grows well with consistent care.
🍃 4. Chives
- Light: Low to medium
- Water: Keep moist
- Flavor: Mild onion
- Use for: Eggs, soups, potatoes
Chives need little light and bounce back fast after cutting.
🌸 5. Thyme
- Light: Bright (near window or grow light)
- Water: Let soil dry between waterings
- Flavor: Strong, earthy
- Use for: Roasted meats, bread, marinades
Good in small pots. A must for flavor lovers.
🪴 6. Cilantro (Coriander)
- Light: Medium to bright
- Water: Regular, moist soil
- Flavor: Sharp and citrusy
- Use for: Indian, Mexican, Thai food
It bolts fast. Replant every 2–3 weeks for constant supply.
🧄 7. Oregano
- Light: Bright
- Water: Minimal
- Flavor: Warm, slightly bitter
- Use for: Pizza, pasta, grilled dishes
Doesn’t mind dry soil. Needs trimming to stay bushy.
Best Setup for Indoor Herbs
💡 You’ll Need:
- Small pots or jars (with drainage)
- Herb seeds or cuttings
- Potting mix or pre-seeded pods
- Water tray or plate
- Sunlight or LED grow light
I started with a countertop herb garden near my kitchen window. Later, I added a grow light for basil and thyme.
You can also use indoor herb growing kits. They’re great if you want a clean, automated option.
My Weekly Routine
- Monday: Check soil moisture
- Wednesday: Harvest small leaves
- Friday: Rotate pots for even growth
- Sunday: Top up water and wipe pots
It takes less than 10 minutes. And now I always have something fresh to toss into dinner.
Tips for Beginners
- Use deep pots for cilantro and parsley
- Keep herbs close to your cooking space
- Avoid overwatering—check with your finger
- Snip leaves regularly to encourage growth
- Use filtered water if tap water is harsh
Herbs That Don’t Need Much Care
If you’re lazy or just starting out, go with these first:
- Mint
- Chives
- Thyme
- Oregano
They’re tough, forgiving, and perfect for apartment herb gardens.
Best Kits for Indoor Herb Gardens
If you’re too busy to DIY, try these kits:
| Kit | Best For | Price Range |
| Click & Grow Garden 3 | Auto watering, basil | $90–$120 |
| AeroGarden Harvest | LED grow light setup | $120–$160 |
| iDOO Indoor Herb Kit | Larger families | $70–$110 |
Search indoor herb garden beginner kits on Amazon for deals.
🙋 FAQ – Growing Herbs Indoors
Q1. What are the easiest herbs to grow indoors?
Mint, basil, chives, and oregano. They need little care and grow fast.
Q2. Can herbs grow indoors without sunlight?
Yes. Use a grow light or place near a bright window.
Q3. How often should I water indoor herbs?
Usually 2–3 times a week. Check the soil first.
Q4. Can I grow herbs indoors all year?
Yes. Most herbs do great year-round with steady light and care.
Q5. Do I need a hydroponic kit?
Not necessarily. Pots and soil work fine, but kits are cleaner and easier.
Final Thoughts
I never thought I could grow food in my apartment. Now I have basil for pizza, mint for tea, and parsley for garnish—whenever I want it.
You don’t need experience or fancy tools. Just pick the best herbs for indoor gardening, give them a spot near light, and water them a few times a week.
You’ll taste the difference in every meal.
And it feels amazing to snip something fresh that you grew yourself.
