Growing herbs without soil in my kitchen has been such a fun (and surprisingly easy) experiment! There’s nothing better than snipping fresh basil or mint straight into a dish while cooking.
Plus, my kitchen always smells amazing. With just a little care, these herbs thrive year-round, no messy soil required. And who wouldn’t like that?
If you love fresh flavors and want a low-maintenance indoor garden, here are the herbs you’ll definitely want to grow. Along with my best tips for keeping them happy, of course!
1. Basil
My basil thrives in a jar of water right on the kitchen windowsill. It’s like having a little green friend watching over my cooking adventures. Snip a few leaves, and your pasta transforms into a gourmet delight.
Water needs to be changed weekly, and you can add a pinch of sugar for extra care. This basil keeps me company, and sometimes I think it’s whispering pasta recipes to me.
But don’t add too much water. You don’t want a soggy basil friend. Keep it happy and it’ll reward you with endless tasty leaves.
2. Mint
This plant is that cool friend that’s always welcome at the party. It grows well in water and doesn’t ask for much, just a sunny spot. Add a sprig to your lemonade and suddenly you’re a mixologist.
Change the water every few days and watch out for those roots. They like to stretch out. As it grows, it fills the kitchen with a refreshing aroma. Mint can be a bit of a wanderer, so keep it in check.
It’s perfect for mojitos, teas, and a little zing in your salads. Perfect!
3. Thyme
This one has a timeless elegance and will grow well in water if you give it the spotlight. Do you ever find yourself talking to your plants? Thyme enjoys a bit of chatter, or maybe that’s just its way of thriving.
With the right care, it might become the most reliable herb in your collection. Its subtle aroma is a lovely addition to soups and stews. Have you ever tried using thyme in a dessert?
Experimenting could lead to a delicious discovery. Thyme is forgiving, but remember, it appreciates attention, just like any good friend.
4. Parsley
The one that stands tall and proud in my kitchen, flourishing in a simple glass of water. It’s the hero of garnishes, adding a touch of class to any dish.
I find it amusing how such a small plant can elevate my culinary creations. Keep the water fresh, and parsley will reward you with continuous growth. It’s like having a little parsley parade on your countertop.
It’s easygoing and doesn’t demand much, just a sunny spot and an occasional trim. A sprig of parsley can transform a meal into something extraordinary.
5. Cilantro
Cilantro and I have a love affair. It’s always adding that extra flair to my tacos. Placed in water, cilantro grows quickly, eager to spice up my meals. I change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
The fragrance fills my kitchen, and I can’t help but smile. Though it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, cilantro is my culinary soulmate. Its zest enhances everything from guacamole to curries.
Be gentle with its delicate leaves, and it’ll stick around, gracing your dishes with a burst of flavor. It’s my little green wonder.
6. Chives
The elegant chives, standing tall in a glass of water. Their delicate onion flavor is the secret weapon in my kitchen. They snip easily, adding flair to omelets and salads. Change the water regularly, and they’ll continue to grow faithfully.
Their presence is like a green bouquet, fresh and inviting. Chives are the silent stars, never overshadowing the main dish but always enhancing it.
They don’t demand much, just a little sunlight and a change of water. It’s a lovely, understated herb that brings joy to my cooking.
7. Rosemary
This one is like having a tiny pine tree in your kitchen, sans needles on the floor. Ever wondered how a sprig could transform your roast? Its aroma is both calming and invigorating.
Rosemary loves water but doesn’t want wet feet, so keep the water level right. Have you tried using rosemary in sweet dishes? It’s a surprising twist! This herb is patient, needing just enough sunlight to thrive.
If you keep it happy, rosemary rewards you with a fragrant, evergreen presence. It’s a great companion in culinary adventures and a welcome addition to your kitchen.
8. Oregano
The reliable buddy that never lets you down. Growing in water, it’s always ready to join the culinary party. Its robust flavor stands out in sauces and pizzas.
I change its water every week, ensuring a healthy growth. Oregano doesn’t fuss over much, just a sunny spot and a little love. It’s like having an Italian chef whispering secrets into your ear.
Try pairing it with tomatoes or cheese for a culinary delight. Its adaptability makes it an essential part of my kitchen herb collection. You can’t go wrong with Oregano!
9. Sage
Sage has a wisdom about it, growing steadily in water. It brings a touch of earthiness to my dishes, seasoning meats and vegetables. Though it requires regular water changes, sage is forgiving and thrives with minimal fuss.
It sits on my kitchen shelf, adding a hint of nature indoors. Sage’s aroma is both soothing and bold, enriching my culinary endeavors. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes simplicity is best.
Whether in stuffing or tea, sage provides a comforting presence. Its resilience and flavor make it a cherished part of my kitchen.
10. Lemongrass
I have been through some flavorful adventures with this one. Growing it in water is simple, and it thrives with little effort. I love how it adds a citrusy zest to my soups and curries.
Changing its water every few days is key to keeping it fresh. It’s like having a tropical breeze right in my kitchen.
Lemongrass might seem exotic, but it’s easygoing and grows quickly. The stalks stand tall and proud, ready to bring flavors to my dishes. It’s my little piece of the tropics, brightening up my culinary creations.
11. Lavender
Lavender is more than just a pretty face. It grows great in water, bringing a calming aroma to my kitchen. Changing the water keeps it fresh and beautiful. Its gentle presence is a constant source of peace in my cooking space.
Lavender is like a fragrant hug, offering relaxation amidst culinary chaos. Though delicate, it holds its own, thriving with minimal attention.
A touch of lavender can transform ordinary dishes into something magical. It’s a delightful addition to my kitchen garden.
12. Dill
This one stands out with its feathery fronds, enjoying the water life on my windowsill. Its fresh, tangy flavor is a must for pickles and fish. I change its water regularly, ensuring it stays happy and healthy.
Dill doesn’t demand much, just a sunny spot to soak in the light. It’s like having a little green cheerleader, always ready to spice things up. Its presence is a constant reminder of summer picnics.
Dill is resilient, adapting to its watery abode with ease. It adds a delightful punch to my culinary creations.
13. Tarragon
The elegant cousin of kitchen herbs, flourishing beautifully in water. Ever considered how a touch of tarragon could elevate your meals? Its distinct anise-like flavor adds sophistication to everything.
Change its water weekly and it’ll thrive with grace. Tarragon brings a subtle touch to sauces and dressings, making every dish a little more special.
Have you tried using it in chicken dishes? Its presence is gentle yet impactful, a true culinary companion. Tarragon may require a bit more care, but the rewards are worth it. This herb is a game-changer.
14. Chervil
Chervil is like the shy sibling of parsley, quietly flourishing in water. Its delicate flavor adds a subtle touch to my soups and salads. I change the water often, keeping it crisp and fresh.
Chervil doesn’t ask for much, just a little attention and a sunny spot. It’s like a gentle whisper in the kitchen, enhancing dishes without overshadowing them. Its tender leaves are a testament to its grace.
Chervil is a humble herb, perfect for those who appreciate the finer nuances in culinary arts. It’s a lovely addition to my collection.
15. Bay Leaves
Bay leaves and I go way back. Growing them in water on my windowsill brings a rustic charm to my kitchen. Their rich aroma infuses soups and stews with depth and warmth.
I change the water regularly, keeping the bay leaves fresh. They’re like a culinary time machine, transporting me to cozy dinners and family gatherings. Bay leaves are versatile, adding a subtle complexity to every dish.
They don’t demand much, just a little care and a sunny spot. It’s like having a bit of nature indoors, enhancing my cooking adventures.
16. Marjoram
Thriving effortlessly in water, Marjoram is another must have herb. Its sweet, mild flavor is a welcome addition to soups and salads. I change its water frequently, ensuring it stays fresh and happy.
Marjoram doesn’t fuss over much, just a sunny spot and occasional attention. Its presence brings a touch of calm to my cooking adventures.
Marjoram is a versatile herb, enhancing dishes with its subtle charm. It’s an essential part of my indoor garden, bringing warmth to every meal.
17. Lemon Balm
The companion of kitchen herbs, thriving happily in water. Ever wondered how a hint of citrus could transform your tea? This herb brings a zesty twist to everything.
Changing the water weekly keeps it fresh and lively. Lemon balm’s bright flavor is perfect for desserts and drinks, adding a refreshing touch. Have you tried using it in herbal teas?
Its presence brightens up the kitchen, both in taste and aroma. Lemon balm is easygoing, requiring just a bit of light and care. It’s a delightful herb to grow.
18. Stevia
Time for a sweet revelation of my kitchen. Stevia is thriving in water with little fuss. It’s the perfect sugar substitute, adding natural sweetness to my teas and desserts.
I change its water regularly, ensuring a fresh, healthy growth. Stevia’s presence is like a sweet secret, enhancing flavors without overpowering them. It doesn’t demand much, just a sunny spot and minimal care.
Its leaves are a constant reminder that nature provides the best sweeteners. Stevia is a unique addition to my kitchen garden, offering a healthier alternative to sugar. It’s a sweet, satisfying herb.
19. Fennel
Growing this one in water is easy. Its anise-like flavor adds a unique touch to my dishes, especially salads. Changing the water every few days keeps it fresh and thriving.
Fennel’s fronds stand tall, adding a graceful presence to my kitchen. It’s like having a little piece of the Mediterranean indoors. The flavor is bold yet inviting, perfect for culinary experimentation.
Fennel is easygoing, requiring just a bit of light and attention. It’s a versatile herb that enhances my cooking with its distinct taste.
20. Horseradish
The feisty member of my kitchen garden, thriving in water. Its spicy kick is a game-changer in sauces and salads. I make sure to change its water regularly, keeping it vigorous and healthy.
It’s like having a fiery companion, always ready to add zest to my meals. Horseradish may require a bit more attention, but the reward is worth it.
Its unique flavor is perfect for those who love a little heat in their dishes. Growing horseradish is a fun, spicy adventure. It’s a great addition to my kitchen.
21. Shiso
Its unique flavor is a blend of basil, mint, and anise, adding a twist to my dishes. I change its water regularly, ensuring a healthy growth.
Shiso’s presence is like a culinary adventure, always offering something new. It’s a versatile herb, perfect for sushi, salads, and garnishes.
Shiso requires a bit of care, with ample light and attention. Growing shiso is like having a taste of Asia in my kitchen. It’s a flavorful addition to my herb collection.
22. Watercress
Ever tried adding its peppery bite to your sandwiches? It brings a lively touch to every meal. Changing the water frequently ensures its freshness and vigor.
Watercress is like a little green firecracker, always ready to spice things up. Its presence is both bold and refreshing, perfect for salads and soups.
Have you experimented with watercress in pesto? It’s a surprising twist! This herb is easy to grow, needing just light and regular water changes. Pretty cool, right?
23. Arugula
The peppery flavor from this one is a perfect match for salads and sandwiches. I make sure to change its water often, keeping it lively and fresh.
Arugula doesn’t ask for much, just a sunny spot and a bit of care. It’s like having a zesty friend, always ready to add excitement to meals. Its taste is a constant reminder of its lively character.
Arugula is a fun, easygoing herb that brings a punch to my culinary creations. It’s a must-have in my kitchen garden. And it could be yours, too!
24. Borage
Borage and I share a floral friendship, growing happily in water. Its cucumber-like flavor adds a refreshing touch to my drinks and salads. I change the water regularly to keep it thriving.
It’s like having a little piece of nature indoors, brightening up my culinary world. Borage is easygoing, needing just a bit of light and attention.
Its unique flavor and appearance make it a great addition to my garden. It’s a herb you wont regret having!
25. Ginger
The spicy one! Thriving effortlessly in water. Its flavor is a staple in my cooking, from teas to stir-fries. I change the water often, ensuring a steady growth.
Ginger’s presence is like a fiery friend, always ready to add a kick to my dishes. It’s versatile and easy to grow, requiring just light and regular care.
Ginger is a perfect addition to my indoor garden, offering both culinary and medicinal benefits. It’s a must-have for those who love a little spice in their lives.