Gardening is a rewarding activity, but not everyone has the space, time, or climate to maintain an outdoor garden.
Luckily, many herbs can be grown indoors with minimal effort—some even thrive in just water!
Hydroponic gardening, where plants grow without soil, is a simple and sustainable way to keep your kitchen stocked with fresh herbs all year round.
11 Herbs You Can Grow With Just Water All Year Round
Here are 11 herbs that you can grow with just water, making it easy to enjoy homegrown flavor no matter the season.
1. Basil
Basil is one of the most popular herbs used in cooking, known for its aromatic leaves and vibrant flavor. It’s also incredibly easy to grow in water. Simply cut a few stems from a mature basil plant, remove the lower leaves, and place the stems in a glass of water. Keep the glass in a sunny spot, and you’ll notice new roots forming within a few days. Regularly change the water to keep it fresh, and you’ll have a continuous supply of basil all year.
2. Mint
Mint is a versatile herb that can add a refreshing touch to drinks, desserts, and savory dishes. It’s also one of the easiest herbs to grow in water. Cut a sprig of mint, place it in a jar of water, and watch it thrive. Mint prefers indirect sunlight and cooler temperatures, making it perfect for indoor hydroponic growth.
3. Rosemary
Rosemary is a hardy herb with a strong, woody flavor that pairs well with meats and roasted vegetables. To grow rosemary in water, take a cutting from a healthy plant, strip the leaves from the bottom, and place the stem in water. Rosemary can be slow to root, so be patient. Once established, it will continue to grow and produce fragrant leaves throughout the year.
4. Oregano
Oregano is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, and it’s easy to grow in water. Take a cutting from an existing plant, place it in a glass of water, and position it in a sunny spot. Oregano prefers bright light, so a windowsill that gets plenty of sunlight is ideal. Keep the water fresh, and your oregano will thrive.
5. Thyme
Thyme is a delicate herb that adds depth to soups, stews, and marinades. It’s easy to propagate in water—simply place a cutting in a jar with the leaves above the waterline. Thyme grows best in indirect sunlight and can be harvested frequently, making it a great herb to keep on hand year-round.
6. Sage
Sage is a robust herb with a slightly peppery flavor, often used in stuffing and poultry dishes. Growing sage in water is simple: take a cutting from a mature plant and place it in a glass of water in a sunny location. Sage prefers plenty of light, so ensure it gets at least six hours of sunlight each day.
7. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has a bright, citrusy flavor that works well in teas and desserts. It’s also known for its calming properties. To grow lemon balm in water, cut a sprig from an established plant, place it in a glass of water, and keep it in a sunny spot. Lemon balm is fast-growing, so you’ll have plenty of leaves to harvest throughout the year.
8. Chives
Chives are an excellent addition to salads, soups, and baked potatoes, offering a mild onion flavor. Chives are easy to grow in water—place a few cuttings in a jar, and they’ll start to root within days. Chives prefer bright light, so keep them near a sunny window.
9. Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a versatile herb with a unique flavor that’s essential in many cuisines. It can be grown in water, though it does best in cooler temperatures and indirect sunlight. Regularly change the water and trim the stems to encourage growth.
10. Lavender
Lavender isn’t just for its fragrance—its floral notes can also enhance desserts and drinks. Growing lavender in water requires a bit more care, as it needs plenty of sunlight and regular water changes. However, with patience, you can enjoy this fragrant herb all year.
11. Parsley
Parsley is a mild, fresh herb that complements a variety of dishes. Growing parsley in water is simple—place a cutting in a glass of water, keep it in a sunny spot, and watch it flourish. Parsley can take a bit longer to establish roots, but once it does, it will provide a steady supply of fresh leaves.
Final Tips
Growing herbs in water is not only convenient but also a sustainable way to ensure you have fresh ingredients on hand. Be sure to change the water every few days to prevent stagnation and encourage healthy growth. With a bit of sunlight and regular care, these herbs will thrive, providing you with fresh flavors year-round. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting, these herbs are an easy way to bring the garden into your kitchen.
