Growing herbs indoors is easy. With a sunny spot, some soil, and water, you can have fresh herbs like basil, mint, or parsley right in your kitchen all year.
How to Grow Herbs Indoors from Seed:
Choose Easy Herbs
Start with herbs that grow well inside: basil, chives, parsley, cilantro, thyme, oregano, sage, and mint (keep mint in its own pot).
Containers & Soil
Use small pots 4-6 inches) with drainage holes and a light potting mix (not garden soil). Moisten the mix before planting.
Sowing Seeds
Sow lightly—most herbs need just a thin cover of soil. Mist gently. If house is very dry cover with clear plastic until sprouts appear. Keep soil damp but not soggy.
Light & Temperature
Herbs need 12–16 hours of bright light daily. A sunny south window works, or use grow lights about 6 inches above plants. Keep temperatures 65–75°F and avoid drafts.
Water & Feeding
Water when the top inch feels dry. If potting mix has a slow release fertilizer don’t use any more fertilizer. If herbs look weak or yellow early: They might need a small feeding sooner, especially fast growers like basil.
Harvesting
Pinch and trim often to keep herbs bushy. Never cut more than one-third at a time. Reseed quick growers like basil or dill every couple of months.
Quick Fixes
Problem | Fix |
Leggy plants | More light |
Yellow leaves | Less water |
Mold on soil | Better airflow |