These 5 herbs that thrive indoors will make long winters seem shorter, and boring meals much more exciting. Even if you don't have a lot of space indoors, these 5 herbs just don't need much except for sun! So before you begin this, make sure you have a south facing window that will receive 4-5 hours of sun every day, otherwise they may not be too happy!
Over the years, we've experimented with different plants and herbs, and finally found that these 5 herbs were simply the ones that thrived best indoors! Like I said, plenty of sun is needed, and you're good to go!
#1. Chives
Chives are one of those herbs that thrive in almost any condition, and they just grow and grow and grow! They're also a great addition to any meal starting from breakfast all the way to dinner!
Sun: 4-6 hours
Temperature: Chives will grow in average room temperature and can withstand temperature fluctuations of 55-75 F.
Soil: All purpose potting mix.
Water: Twice a week. If not getting enough water, the tips of the plant will turn yellow.
Harvest: Cut the chives once they are at least 6 inches long, leaving about 2 inches from the soil. They will then continue to grow.
#2. Oregano
Oregano, another easy herb to grow indoors, goes great on pizzas and other Italian dishes such as stews and pastas!
Sun: 6-8 hours
Temperature: Average room temperature and can withstand temperature fluctuations of 55-75 F.
Soil: Oregano likes a sandy soil mix. Mix equal parts all-purpose potting mix with sharp sand OR you can also use cactus-potting mix directly.
Water: About once a week or when soil feels dry. Oregano is susceptible to root rot, so make sure you don't over-water.
Harvest: Cut the oregano stems once it is 6 inches tall, making sure to leave at least 2 sets of leaves. The more you trim, the bushier it will become.
#3. Rosemary
Rosemary brings a great depth of flavor to any dish, especially meats!
Sun: At least 6 hours
Temperature: Average room temperature and can withstand temperature fluctuations of 45-70 F.
Soil: Just like with oregano, rosemary like a sandy soil mix. Mix equal parts all-purpose potting mix with sharp sand OR you can also use cactus-potting mix directly.
Water: Allow the top few inches to dry out before water, about once every 12 days. Rosemary likes it dry!
Harvest: Once it is 6 inches tall, cut the stems as you need them, but don't harvest more than 1/3 of the plant as rosemary is slow growing.
#4. Thyme
It's always time for thyme, especially when it comes to meats!
Sun: At least 6 hours.
Temperature: Average room temperature and can withstand temperature fluctuations of 55-75 F.
Soil: Just like oregano and rosemary, thyme like a sandy soil mix as well! Mix equal parts all-purpose potting mix with sharp sand OR you can also use cactus-potting mix directly.
Water: Allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry out before you water again. Once it is establish, thyme is actually drought resistant!
Harvest: Once fully grown, harvest as needed, making sure to leave at least 3 inches stems to continue successful growth.
#5. Parsley
Use it in soups, salads, or as a garnish, parsley always comes in handy!
Sun: At least 6 hours.
Temperature: Average room temperature and can withstand temperature fluctuations of 55-75 F.
Soil: All-purpose potting mix.
Water: Twice a week, or when soil feels dry.
Harvest: Once grown, cut the stems at the base, leaving at least 2 inches to continue growing.
For more herb planting ideas, check out our Herbs Section!
Happy Planting!
If they are so good to grow indoors, why aren’t the photos of plants that have grown indoors?
Hi Lynn,
Although these 5 herbs do VERY well indoors, once spring and summer comes, most people will move them outdoors and in bigger pots. They also photograph much nicer in natural light 🙂
Are you expierenced with vegetables as well or just herbs?
Hi Jessie,
Our articles cover ALL types of gardening including vegetables, fruits, nut trees, flowers, plants, and much more! Simply use the search bar to find what you are looking for, our check out our categories at the top of the page 🙂
I was surprised to not see basil on here. I always grow my basil indoor, in a window. It does wonderful.
You are right Mallory, we’ll have to add that to our list 🙂 Thank you!
I have a north facing apartment with no outdoor space, is there anything that I can grow inside with limit direct sunlight?
Hi Jessica,
‘
All of the 5 herbs mentioned in the article grow wonderfully indoors, but they’ll still need some indirect sunlight. Try to find a south facing window that you can place them in. If not, you can also use grow lights. Also, these 15 indoor veggies are a great option for indoor gardening!
Thanks for sharing your wonderful knowledge on indoor herbs gardening. Can you guide me for buying good quality seeds in Toronto?
Hi Romesh,
We like to use https://www.veseys.com/. They have been around for about 80 years and offer cross country shipping. Really good quality seeds and also great prices.
Unfortunately we don’t see the sun for days in the UK so will have to keep buying bunches of herbs at the store when available!!!