Growing fresh herbs at home doesn’t have to be difficult or messy. With only a glass of water and a sunny windowsill, you can maintain a steady supply of herbs throughout the year, perfect for adding natural flavor to your meals. Water-grown herbs are not only convenient but also ideal for small spaces, making them a smart choice for any kitchen layout.
Advantages of Growing Herbs in Water
This method, often called hydroponic gardening, comes with several key benefits:
- No soil means no mess, making it neat and easy.
- It reduces the risk of pests often found in traditional soil gardening.
- Saves counter and floor space, ideal for small apartments or compact kitchens.
- Allows for year-round access to fresh herbs regardless of the season.
Here are 12 herbs that grow well in water, along with easy care tips to keep them healthy and flavorful all year long.
1. Basil
This widely-used herb is known for its aromatic leaves and thrives in water.
How to Grow: Cut a 4-inch stem just below a leaf node and place it in a jar of water, making sure the leaves stay above the surface.
Light Needs: Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Uses: Perfect for pastas, sauces, and fresh salads.
2. Mint
Popular for its cool scent and taste, mint is a favorite for drinks and desserts.
How to Grow: Submerge a 4-5 inch cutting in water, keeping the lower leaves submerged.
Light Needs: Prefers indirect sunlight.
Uses: Great in teas, mojitos, and fruit garnishes.
3. Rosemary
This woody herb can last for months in water with minimal effort.
How to Grow: Trim a 6-inch stem, remove the lower leaves, and place in water. Refresh weekly.
Light Needs: Full sunlight is best.
Uses: Works well with roasted dishes and marinades.
4. Oregano
This Mediterranean staple is easy to grow and adds depth to many meals.
How to Grow: Use a 4-inch stem and change water every 3-4 days.
Light Needs: Bright, indirect sunlight.
Uses: Ideal for sauces, pizzas, and seasoning meats.
5. Thyme
Known for its gentle aroma, thyme brings flavor to a variety of recipes.
How to Grow: Put a 5-inch cutting in water, keeping leaves above the waterline.
Light Needs: Requires around 6 hours of bright light daily.
Uses: Common in soups, stews, and roasted vegetables.
6. Lemon Balm
With a hint of lemon scent, this herb is popular in teas and sweet dishes.
How to Grow: Place a 4-inch stem in water and refresh every few days.
Light Needs: Grows well in indirect sunlight.
Uses: Perfect in herbal teas, fruit salads, and desserts.
7. Sage
Sage offers a rich, earthy taste and does well in water.
How to Grow: Use a 4-6 inch cutting and keep the leaves above water. Change water weekly.
Light Needs: Bright but indirect sunlight.
Uses: Ideal for poultry dishes, sauces, and stuffing.
8. Cilantro
Fast-growing and flavorful, cilantro is best when used fresh.
How to Grow: Submerge a fresh cutting in water and replace water often.
Light Needs: Thrives in indirect sunlight.
Uses: Found in salsa, tacos, and Asian-inspired meals.
9. Chives
These herbs are easy to manage and add a light onion taste.
How to Grow: Trim a few chive stems and place in water, changing it every few days.
Light Needs: Bright, indirect sunlight is best.
Uses: Tasty on baked potatoes, eggs, and as a garnish.
10. Stevia
A natural sweetener, stevia is a healthy sugar alternative.
How to Grow: Cut a stem and place it in fresh water, replacing weekly.
Light Needs: Requires about 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Uses: Adds sweetness to teas, smoothies, and desserts.
11. Tarragon
With a hint of licorice flavor, tarragon adds flair to many recipes.
How to Grow: Submerge a cutting in water and keep leaves above the surface. Change water weekly.
Light Needs: Needs indirect light.
Uses: Works well in chicken, fish, and egg dishes.
12. Parsley
A kitchen essential, parsley is easy to grow and use.
How to Grow: Use a 4-inch cutting in a clear container and refresh water weekly.
Light Needs: Prefers indirect sunlight.
Uses: Perfect for soups, pasta, and garnishes.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh, healthy cuttings that are 4 to 6 inches long and remove lower leaves to avoid rot.
- Clear glass containers help you see root growth and water levels.
- Refresh the water every 3 to 5 days to prevent foul smells and support healthy growth.
- Add a drop of liquid fertilizer every month or so to keep the herbs vibrant.
- Keep your jars in bright, indirect light to avoid burning the leaves while ensuring enough energy for growth.
Growing herbs in water is an easy and clean way to enjoy fresh flavors anytime. Whether you’re short on space or just want a fuss-free herb garden, these water-loving herbs are a perfect solution.