If you’ve ever dreamed of snipping fresh basil or mint straight into your dish, good news — you don’t need a backyard or years of gardening experience. Even in a small space, growing your own herbs is easier than you think.
Whether you live in a studio or a full-sized home, this guide will show you the best herbs to grow indoors for beginners — flavorful, low-maintenance plants that thrive even on a kitchen windowsill.
Starting your own indoor garden is incredibly rewarding, especially when you begin with the best herbs to grow indoors for beginners that adapt easily to indoor conditions and don’t demand constant care.
What Makes the Best Herbs to Grow Indoors for Beginners?
Not all herbs are equal when grown inside. The best herbs to grow indoors for beginners are those that:
- Thrive in small containers
- Tolerate partial or indirect sunlight
- Require minimal watering
- Offer reliable, edible yields
Choosing easy-care varieties helps build confidence and guarantees better results, especially if you’re short on space or new to plant care.
💡 Tip: These are also ideal if you’re looking for easy herbs to grow inside an apartment.
1. Basil – Fragrant and Fast-Growing
Why it’s great: Aromatic, flavorful, and fast to grow — basil is a top choice for beginners. (The most easy plant to grow indoors)
Light: Needs 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Tips: Regularly pinch off the tops to prevent flowering and promote fuller growth.
For more detailed tips, read our guide on how to care for basil and mint indoors.
2. Mint – Practically Unstoppable
Why it’s great: Fast-growing, hard to kill, and perfect for teas and desserts. (Best herb to grow indoors for beginners in a kitchen windowsill)
Light: Prefers indirect sunlight but adapts to moderate light.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist.
Tips: Plant in a deep container to control its spreading roots. Mint is one of the best herbs to grow indoors for beginners because it’s so forgiving.
3. Chives – Compact and Productive
Why it’s great: Hardy and grows back quickly after harvesting.
Light: At least 4–6 hours of sun per day.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Tips: Trim often to keep growth fresh and lush.
4. Parsley – Tolerates Low Light
Why it’s great: Easy to grow and doesn’t demand strong sunlight.
Light: Indirect light or partial shade is enough.
Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist.
Tips: Harvest from the outer stems first for continuous growth.
5. Thyme – Small but Mighty
Why it’s great: Aromatic and drought-tolerant.
Light: Needs full sun — a sunny windowsill works great.
Watering: Let soil dry out between waterings.
Tips: Don’t overwater; thyme prefers slightly dry soil.
6. Oregano – Flavorful and Tough
Why it’s great: Hardy and flavorful, perfect for beginners.
Light: 6+ hours of sunlight daily.
Watering: Water only when soil is dry to the touch.
Tips: Trim back regularly to avoid legginess.
7. Cilantro – Fast Grower
Why it’s great: Grows quickly and is great in many cuisines.
Light: Needs direct sunlight for 4–5 hours.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist.
Tips: Harvest leaves often for best flavor — great for short-term growing.
8. Rosemary – Great Aroma, Minimal Care
Why it’s great: Strong scent, adds flavor to dishes, and loves dry air.
Light: Bright sunlight — at least 6 hours.
Watering: Allow soil to dry between waterings.
Tips: Avoid overwatering and ensure good airflow.
9. Sage – Great for Forgetful Waterers
Why it’s great: Drought-tolerant and robust.
Light: Full sunlight is ideal.
Watering: Let soil dry out fully before watering again.
Tips: Prune regularly to prevent woodiness.
10. Lemongrass – Unique and Easy
Why it’s great: Regrows from kitchen stalks and adds citrusy flavor.
Light: Needs bright, direct light.
Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy.
Tips: Start stalks in water until roots form, then transfer to soil.
How to Care for the Best Herbs Indoors
Light & Placement
Most of the best herbs to grow indoors for beginners need bright light. A sunny windowsill is ideal. Rotate pots every few days to ensure even growth.
Smart Watering
Avoid overwatering — it’s one of the most common mistakes. Use the finger test: if the top inch of soil is dry, it’s time to water. For more, read our watering tips.
Fertilize Occasionally
Use a gentle, organic fertilizer once a month. Overfeeding can reduce flavor. Check our best indoor plant fertilizers for beginners Best Guide how to start and choose correct fertilizers for your plants
Choose the Right Containers
Drainage holes are a must. Herbs don’t like sitting in water. A breathable pot (like terracotta) helps prevent root rot.
These tips will help support healthy growth for the best herbs to grow indoors for beginners, even in small apartments.
Quick Picks: Easy Herbs to Grow Inside Apartment Living
If you’re short on space, don’t worry. Easy herbs to grow inside apartment settings include mint, chives, parsley, and basil. These herbs thrive in small containers and limited light — ideal for urban kitchens or windowsills.
Trusted External Resource
Looking for more data-driven advice? The University of Illinois Extension offers a reliable beginner’s guide to growing herbs indoors.
Final Thoughts
Starting a herb garden indoors is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to green up your space. With just a little effort, even beginners can enjoy fresh, aromatic plants at their fingertips.
Whether you’re a home cook, tea lover, or just someone who loves a splash of green indoors, these best herbs to grow indoors for beginners are a great place to start. Try a few, experiment, and enjoy the journey — no green thumb required.
👉 Ready to build your indoor garden? Start with our beginner’s indoor gardening guide to plan your space and pick the right plants.
🌿 Ready to begin? Start with basil, mint, or chives — they’re the best herbs to grow indoors for beginners and require almost no experience.
Pingback: 7 Easy Steps to Start an Indoor Garden for Beginners