How to Grow Herbs Indoors Year-Round

Indoor herbs need a sunny window or grow light, well-draining soil, and containers with drainage holes. Start with easy herbs like basil, parsley, and chives.

1. Find Your Sunniest Spot. Find a spot that gets at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, typically a south-facing window. If natural light is limited, set up a grow light 6-12 inches above your herbs. Avoid drafty areas near heating vents or frequently opened doors.
2. Grab Drainage-Ready Pots. Use pots with drainage holes that are at least 4-6 inches deep for most herbs. Terra cotta or ceramic pots work well because they allow soil to breathe. Place saucers underneath to protect surfaces from water damage.
3. Mix Breathable Growing Medium. Fill containers with high-quality potting soil mixed with perlite or coarse sand for better drainage. Avoid garden soil which compacts indoors. The soil should feel light and crumbly when squeezed.
4. Settle Seedlings Into Soil. Start with easy varieties like basil, parsley, chives, oregano, or thyme. Plant seeds according to package directions or transplant seedlings at the same depth they were growing. Space plants according to their mature size to prevent overcrowding.
5. Wet Soil, Not Schedule. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to your finger. Pour water slowly until it drains from the bottom holes, then empty the saucer after 30 minutes. Most herbs prefer slightly dry conditions rather than constantly moist soil.
6. Pinch Often, Pinch Smart. Begin harvesting when plants have at least 6-8 leaves. Pinch off the top third of stems just above a leaf pair to encourage bushier growth. Harvest frequently to keep plants productive and prevent flowering, which makes leaves bitter.