Growing Herb Plants Indoors
Fresh Herbs, Right at Home
Growing herbs indoors keeps fresh flavor close at hand, even when the outdoor garden is resting. With the right light, careful watering, and a well-draining pot, many herbs can grow happily inside.
This guide covers the simple essentials—from choosing the right location to keeping your indoor herbs healthy, full, and ready to harvest.
Browse our herbs that grow well indoors to find varieties suited for life on a sunny windowsill.
What Indoor Herbs Need to Thrive
Most indoor herbs need at least six hours of bright light each day. A south or west facing window is usually the best location. Rotate the pots every few days so each side receives light, and watch for thin, stretched growth—a common sign that the plant needs a brighter spot. Herbs that prefer full sun may need a grow light during shorter winter days.
Choose a container with drainage holes and enough room for the roots to grow. Use a loose, well-draining potting mix instead of heavy garden soil, which can compact inside containers. Repot when roots circle the inside of the pot, emerge from the drainage holes, or the soil begins drying unusually fast. Learn more about growing herb plants in pots.
Check the soil before watering indoor herbs. If the top inch feels dry, water thoroughly until excess moisture drains from the bottom of the pot, then empty the saucer. Never leave an herb sitting in standing water. Indoor herbs usually grow more slowly during winter and may need less frequent watering. Explore our container gardening herbs for more plants suited to growing in pots.
Most indoor herbs are comfortable in normal household temperatures, but sudden extremes can cause stress. Keep pots away from heating vents, radiators, fireplaces, cold drafts, and icy window glass. If winter air becomes extremely dry, group plants together or use a nearby humidifier. Check the leaves regularly, since stressed indoor plants can be more vulnerable to houseplant pests.
Find the Best Light for Indoor Herbs
Place indoor herbs in the brightest window available. South-facing windows typically provide the strongest light, while east- or west-facing windows can also work. If plants lean toward the glass or develop long, thin stems, they need more light.
During shorter winter days, supplement natural light with a full-spectrum grow light. Position it according to the manufacturer’s directions and use a timer for 12–14 hours daily, allowing darkness overnight. Start with herbs that grow well indoors for better results.
Keep Indoor Herbs Healthy & Productive
Regular harvesting helps indoor herbs stay compact and productive. Pinch soft growing tips just above a set of leaves, remove yellow or damaged foliage, and rotate the pots regularly for balanced growth. Our guide to houseplant pests can help you identify trouble early if you notice insects, webbing, sticky leaves, or unusual damage.
Wipe dusty leaves gently with a damp cloth and inspect both sides of the foliage each week. Feed only while the plants are actively growing, using a diluted liquid fertilizer according to the label. Too much fertilizer can weaken growth and reduce the concentrated flavor and aroma of your herbs.
Start Your Indoor Herb Garden
Basil, chives, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme are among the best herbs to grow indoors. Choose varieties that match the light available in your home, then begin with a few favorites you’ll regularly use in the kitchen.
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