Indoor herbs make any kitchen feel fresher and more alive. Many herbs are surprisingly easy to grow and don’t need fancy equipment — just a sunny windowsill and a bit of care.
Here are my top picks for the 10 Easiest Herbs to Grow Indoors.
#1 Basil
Basil grows fast in warm, sunny spots. Keep it near a bright window and pinch the tops for bushier leaves. If you run into trouble, check my guide on how to prune basil for healthy plants.
#2 Mint
Mint spreads quickly and tolerates low light. I love it for fresh tea and garnish. Just give it a roomy pot so it doesn’t take over other herbs.
#3 Chives
Chives add mild onion flavor year-round. They thrive indoors with regular trimming and plenty of indirect light. A sunny sill keeps them productive.
#4 Parsley
Parsley tolerates lower light than many herbs. It’s slow to sprout but grows well once established. Fresh parsley perks up any dish.
#5 Thyme
Thyme loves sunlight and well-drained soil. This hardy herb needs little water. Snip sprigs as needed and watch it keep coming back.
#6 Oregano
Oregano thrives in bright light and warm spots. It’s perfect for pasta nights. Harvest often to encourage bushy growth.
#7 Rosemary
Rosemary prefers full sun and good air flow. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings. Its strong aroma makes any kitchen cozier.
#8 Sage
Sage grows sturdy leaves and loves sun. It needs less water than basil or parsley. Keep it trimmed for fresh seasoning anytime.
#9 Cilantro
Cilantro needs cooler temps and steady moisture. It bolts fast, so pick leaves often. For tips, pair it with my homemade fertilizer guide.
#10 Lemongrass
Lemongrass regrows easily from store-bought stalks. Keep the roots in water until they sprout, then plant in a pot. Fresh lemongrass tea is worth it!
Ready to Start?
Even without a green thumb, these easy herbs will thrive on your windowsill. Pick a few, plant them today, and enjoy fresh flavor all year long!
FAQs
Q: Do indoor herbs need fertilizer?
A: Yes — light feeding keeps them healthy.
Q: How much light do indoor herbs need?
A: Most herbs need 4–6 hours of sunlight daily. South or west-facing windows work best.
Q: What’s the easiest herb for beginners?
A: Mint or chives are very forgiving. They grow well indoors with minimal fuss.
I'm George Brown, a passionate gardener and the founder of UrbanLeafy.com. I love helping beginners grow fresh herbs, plants and greenery, whether on a windowsill, in a garden or a tiny balcony. My practical, no-fluff tips have been featured in Homes & Gardens, Livingetc, and Best Life, and are rooted in years of real experience. If you're ready to turn your space into a thriving herb haven, you’re in the right place.
