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Growing herbs in water is a simple, space-efficient way for indoor gardeners and those with limited outdoor space to keep fresh herbs on hand year-round. This method minimizes the need for soil, regular watering, and maintenance, making it a great option for beginners. Additionally, water-grown herbs can enhance your culinary creations, adding a burst of flavor and aroma to your favorite dishes. Here’s a look at seven herbs that thrive in water and how you can grow them at home with ease.
1. Basil

Basil is a staple in many kitchens, known for its aromatic leaves that elevate sauces, salads, and even drinks. It’s also one of the best herbs to grow in water due to its resilience and ease of propagation.
How to Grow: Begin by taking a cutting (4-6 inches long) from a healthy basil plant, ensuring it has at least two pairs of leaves. Place the stem in a glass of water, making sure no leaves are submerged to prevent rot. Change the water every couple of days, and within 2-3 weeks, you’ll see roots begin to develop. Once the roots are about 2 inches long, you can either transfer the basil to soil or keep it thriving in water.
2. Mint
Mint is incredibly easy to grow in water, making it a top choice for indoor gardeners. Its refreshing flavor is perfect for teas, desserts, and cooling summer beverages like mojitos. The best part? Mint can grow vigorously, so having it in water prevents it from overtaking your garden.
How to Grow: Snip a cutting from a healthy mint plant and strip the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Place the stem in a glass jar or bottle filled with water, changing the water every 3-4 days. Within 1-2 weeks, the roots will begin to form. Mint does well in indirect sunlight, making it a great herb to grow on a kitchen windowsill.
3. Oregano

Oregano, a Mediterranean herb, flourishes in water and is perfect for those who love adding authentic flavors to their pizzas, pasta, and grilled dishes. Its rich, aromatic flavor enhances a wide variety of dishes, making it a must-have in your kitchen.
How to Grow: Take a 5-6 inch cutting from an oregano plant. Place it in a glass of water on a sunny windowsill. Keep the water fresh by changing it every few days. After about 2-3 weeks, roots will appear, and you can either pot the plant or keep it growing in water for continuous use.
4. Thyme

Thyme is a versatile herb, commonly used to flavor meats, soups, and stews. Its small, fragrant leaves are easy to grow in water, making it a great option for indoor herb gardens.
How to Grow: Cut a 3-4 inch piece of thyme from an existing plant. Place the stem in a glass of water, ensuring the leaves are above the water line. Change the water every 2-3 days, and within 2-4 weeks, roots should begin to form. You can continue to grow thyme in water or transfer it to soil once the roots are established.
5. Rosemary

Rosemary is known for its strong aroma and distinctive flavor, making it a fantastic addition to roasted meats, vegetables, and even skincare products. Though it can take a bit longer to root, rosemary is worth the wait.
How to Grow: Take a 6-8 inch cutting from a mature rosemary plant, strip the lower leaves, and place the stem in a glass of water. Ensure the plant gets plenty of sunlight, and change the water every few days. It may take 6-8 weeks for roots to develop, but once they do, rosemary can thrive in water indefinitely.
6. Sage

Sage offers a robust, earthy flavor that’s perfect for savory dishes, especially during the fall and winter months. This herb adapts well to water-based growth, making it an excellent choice for indoor gardens.
How to Grow: Take a 4-5 inch cutting from a healthy sage plant, and place it in a container of water. Sage prefers indirect sunlight, so keep it in a well-lit area away from direct sun exposure. Regularly change the water, and within 3 weeks, roots should begin to appear.
7. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, with its lemony scent and calming properties, is a member of the mint family. It’s often used in teas, desserts, and as a garnish, and it’s known for its stress-relieving benefits.
How to Grow: Cut a 5-6 inch piece from a lemon balm plant, strip off the lower leaves, and place it in a jar of water. Lemon balm does best in indirect sunlight and should have its water changed every few days. Roots will typically develop in about 2-3 weeks, after which you can continue growing it in water.
Essential Tips for Growing Herbs in Water
- Water Quality: Use filtered or rainwater to avoid chemicals that can be present in tap water, which may harm the plants.
- Change Water Regularly: To prevent algae growth and root rot, change the water every 3-4 days.
- Sunlight: Most herbs need around 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily. If your indoor space lacks natural light, consider investing in a grow light.
- Pruning: Regularly trim the herbs to promote healthy, bushy growth and prevent them from becoming leggy.
Conclusion
Growing herbs in water is an eco-friendly, cost-effective way to keep your kitchen stocked with fresh, aromatic herbs throughout the year. Whether you have a tiny apartment or just want to save space, these seven herbs make it easy to enjoy fresh flavors without the fuss of soil. So why not give it a try? Transform your indoor space into a mini herb garden and enhance your cooking with the freshest ingredients right at your fingertips. Plus, growing herbs in water can add a touch of greenery to your home, making it a perfect solution for any aspiring gardener.
