10 Herbs You Can Grow in Water: A Simple Guide to Indoor Herb Gardening
Growing herbs at home doesn’t require a sprawling garden or even soil. With just water, a sunny windowsill, and a few cuttings, you can create a thriving indoor herb garden. Not only does this method save space and reduce mess, but it’s also perfect for beginners or urban dwellers. Here are 10 herbs that grow well in water, along with tips to keep them healthy and flourishing.
1. Basil
How to Grow: Snip 4- to 6-inch cuttings from a healthy basil plant just below a node (where leaves grow), remove the lower leaves, and place in a jar of water.
Light Needs: Bright, indirect sunlight.
Care Tip: Change the water every few days to prevent mold and algae. Basil roots within a week or two.
2. Mint (Peppermint & Spearmint)
How to Grow: Mint is one of the easiest herbs to grow in water. Take a 4- to 6-inch cutting, strip the bottom leaves, and place it in a glass of water.
Light Needs: Partial sun to bright indirect light.
Care Tip: Mint grows rapidly. Keep it trimmed to prevent it from becoming leggy or invasive.
3. Oregano
How to Grow: Take a cutting from a healthy oregano plant and place it in water. Rooting may take a little longer than basil but is still simple.
Light Needs: Lots of sunlight, at least 6 hours per day.
Care Tip: Once roots develop, pinch back the tips to encourage bushy growth.
4. Thyme
How to Grow: Snip young, green sprigs (woody stems don’t root well), remove lower leaves, and set in a small glass of water.
Light Needs: Full sun or very bright indoor light.
Care Tip: Mist the leaves occasionally to mimic its natural humid environment.
5. Sage
How to Grow: Use soft cuttings from a fresh sage plant. Place the cutting in water and keep it in a sunny spot.
Light Needs: Bright light, 6-8 hours daily.
Care Tip: Avoid overcrowding in the jar. Sage is prone to mildew if airflow is poor.
6. Rosemary
How to Grow: Rosemary can be slow to root. Take a 5- to 6-inch cutting from new growth and strip the bottom leaves.
Light Needs: Lots of sunlight or grow lights.
Care Tip: Change the water every 2-3 days and be patient; roots can take 2-4 weeks to appear.
7. Lemongrass
How to Grow: Buy a stalk of lemongrass with the root end intact. Place it in a glass with water covering the base.
Light Needs: Bright light and warmth.
Care Tip: Lemongrass roots quickly in water and will begin growing within a week.
8. Tarragon
How to Grow: Take cuttings in spring or early summer. French tarragon is preferred for culinary use.
Light Needs: Bright, indirect sunlight.
Care Tip: Keep water fresh and give it plenty of light for flavor-packed leaves.
9. Chives
How to Grow: Use a mature clump or snip cuttings, making sure there’s some bulb attached. Place in a small jar or cup of water.
Light Needs: Bright light or a sunny windowsill.
Care Tip: Trim frequently to encourage new growth.
10. Stevia
How to Grow: Cut a 4- to 6-inch piece from a healthy stevia plant. Remove lower leaves and place in water.
Light Needs: 6 hours of sunlight or grow light exposure.
Care Tip: Stevia prefers warmth and humidity. Use distilled water if possible for best results.
General Tips for Growing Herbs in Water
- Use Clean Containers: Glass jars, bottles, or vases work well. Wash them regularly to prevent algae growth.
- Change the Water Often: Fresh water every 2–3 days keeps roots healthy.
- Sunlight Matters: Most herbs need at least 6 hours of light daily. A south-facing window or LED grow light can work wonders.
- Harvest Smartly: Always trim herbs above a node to encourage new growth.
- Rooting Hormone (Optional): Not required, but it can speed up the rooting process.
Conclusion
Growing herbs in water is a fun, sustainable way to enjoy fresh flavor all year long. Whether you’re new to gardening or just looking to bring some green indoors, these herbs are a low-maintenance and rewarding start. Happy growing!
