11 Herbs You Can Grow in Water Indoors All Year Long

Growing fresh herbs at home doesn’t require a garden, fancy equipment, or even soil. If you’re short on space, time, or experience, hydroponic herb gardening—growing plants in water—is an easy and rewarding solution.

Whether you want to flavor up your meals or add greenery to your kitchen windowsill, these herbs thrive in water and provide fresh harvests all year round.

—

Why Grow Herbs in Water?

Soil-free herb growing isn’t just for high-tech greenhouses. Many herbs adapt well to water propagation, making it ideal for apartment dwellers, busy cooks, or anyone looking to simplify their indoor gardening routine.

Benefits of growing herbs hydroponically:

No mess or soil needed

Low-maintenance and space-saving

Continuous supply of fresh herbs

Sustainable and eco-friendly

Let’s dive into the top herbs that grow well in water and how to care for each one.

—

🌿 11 Best Herbs to Grow in Water at Home

1. Mint

Keywords: grow mint in water, indoor mint plant care

Mint is one of the easiest herbs to root and grow in water. Simply snip a 4–6 inch sprig, remove lower leaves, and place it in a jar of clean water.
Light needs: Indirect sunlight
Pro tip: Mint grows quickly—harvest regularly to encourage bushier growth.

—

2. Basil

Keywords: basil hydroponic growing, how to grow basil indoors

Cut a few stems from a mature basil plant, strip the bottom leaves, and set the stems in a glass of water near a sunny window.
Light needs: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight
Tip: Change water every 2–3 days to keep it fresh and odor-free.

—

3. Sage

Keywords: grow sage indoors, sage in water method

Sage’s earthy flavor makes it a favorite for roasts and savory dishes. To grow it in water, use a fresh cutting and place it in a well-lit spot.
Light needs: Full sun (6+ hours)
Note: Sage may root slowly but will thrive once established.

—

4. Oregano

Keywords: hydroponic oregano, oregano water propagation

This Mediterranean herb grows quickly in water when given enough sunlight. Take a 4-inch cutting and place it in a bright window.
Light needs: Bright direct light
Maintenance: Prune regularly to prevent leggy growth.

—

5. Thyme

Keywords: how to grow thyme in water, thyme cuttings in water

Delicate and flavorful, thyme adds a punch to soups and stews. Place sprigs in water with leaves above the surface.
Light needs: Indirect light
Harvest tip: Pinch off tips often to encourage new shoots.

—

6. Rosemary

Keywords: rosemary in water, rooting rosemary indoors

This woody herb takes time to root, but it’s worth the wait. Strip lower leaves and immerse the stem in a glass of water.
Light needs: Bright, sunny windowsill
Tip: Be patient—it may take a few weeks for roots to appear.

—

7. Lemon Balm

Keywords: grow lemon balm at home, lemon balm hydroponics

With its citrusy scent and calming properties, lemon balm is perfect for teas and desserts.
Light needs: Bright but indirect sunlight
Growth habit: Fast-growing—clip leaves often to control size.

—

8. Chives

Keywords: grow chives indoors, chives water propagation

Chives offer a mild onion flavor and are quick to root in water. Use a bunch of fresh cuttings and watch them grow within days.
Light needs: Bright direct light
Use tip: Snip leaves close to the base for best regrowth.

—

9. Cilantro (Coriander)

Keywords: grow cilantro in water, hydroponic coriander care

Cilantro is a cool-season herb that can grow in water, though it’s a bit more delicate.
Light needs: Indirect light, cooler conditions
Care: Refresh water every few days and trim stems often.

—

10. Lavender

Keywords: indoor lavender growing, lavender hydroponic system

More known for fragrance than flavor, lavender can be grown in water with care.
Light needs: Full sun
Note: Use young softwood cuttings and expect slower rooting.

—

11. Parsley

Keywords: parsley in water, parsley kitchen herb garden

Parsley’s fresh, clean flavor makes it a staple in kitchens. Though slower to root, it grows well in a sunny jar of water.
Light needs: 5–6 hours of sunlight
Maintenance: Once rooted, trim often to stimulate leaf growth.

—

🌞 Final Tips for Growing Herbs in Water

To ensure success with your indoor hydroponic herbs, follow these quick best practices:

Change the water every 2–3 days to avoid bacteria buildup.

Use a clear glass container so you can monitor root growth.

Keep herbs near natural light—a south-facing window works best.

Trim often to encourage healthy new growth and prevent legginess.

—

🪴 Bring Your Herb Garden Indoors—No Soil Required

Growing herbs in water is one of the simplest ways to add fresh, homegrown flavor to your kitchen—all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, these low-maintenance herbs are perfect for any windowsill, countertop, or sunny corner.

Try a few cuttings today and enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting herbs from your own indoor oasis.