Growing herbs in water is an easy and space-saving way to enjoy fresh, aromatic flavors right at home. Many herbs thrive in water-based environments, making them perfect for indoor gardens, windowsills, or small spaces. Here are 8 popular herbs you can grow in water, along with some tips to help them thrive.
1. Basil
Why It Works: Basil loves warmth and sunlight. It can grow easily in water, but it requires regular water changes to prevent stagnation.
How to Grow: Place a basil cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the stem is submerged but the leaves stay above the waterline. Keep it near a bright window for at least 6 hours of indirect sunlight a day.
2. Mint
Why It Works: Mint is hardy and grows vigorously in water. It’s perfect for hydroponic cultivation.
How to Grow: Snip a healthy stem from your mint plant and place it in a jar of water. Change the water weekly and place it in indirect sunlight. Mint will quickly root and start to grow.
3. Rosemary
Why It Works: Rosemary can be challenging to grow from seeds, but it’s easy to propagate from cuttings in water.
How to Grow: Cut a 4–6 inch sprig from a healthy rosemary plant, remove the bottom leaves, and place the stem in a jar of water. Once it roots, transplant it into soil or keep it in water.
4. Thyme
Why It Works: Like rosemary, thyme can be grown in water from cuttings. It’s perfect for small spaces because it’s a low-growing plant.
How to Grow: Cut a 3–4 inch stem, remove the lower leaves, and submerge it in water. Change the water every few days for best results.
5. Oregano
Why It Works: Oregano thrives in both soil and water, making it ideal for water-based growth in small spaces.
How to Grow: Take a cutting from an established plant and place it in a container of water. Oregano will root quickly, and you can keep it in water indefinitely or transfer it to soil once it’s established.
6. Chives
Why It Works: Chives are another herb that does well in water. They’re perfect for keeping on the kitchen windowsill for easy access to fresh herbs.
How to Grow: Place chive roots in a small jar of water, ensuring the roots are submerged. Chives will quickly sprout new shoots and grow happily in the water.
7. Cilantro
Why It Works: Cilantro is an herb that can be grown in water, although it does best when it has access to both soil and water.
How to Grow: Place a cutting in water with the stem submerged and the leaves above the water. Cilantro will root in water, but for better growth and flavor, it’s best to eventually transfer it to soil.
8. Lemongrass
Why It Works: Lemongrass is a tall, aromatic herb that grows easily in water. It’s great for adding flavor to dishes or making herbal teas.
How to Grow: Cut a stalk of lemongrass and place it in a jar with water. Change the water regularly and keep it in a sunny location. It will sprout roots in about 1–2 weeks.
General Tips for Growing Herbs in Water:
- Change the Water Regularly: Fresh water prevents algae buildup and keeps your herbs healthy.
- Provide Sunlight: Most herbs need at least 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily to thrive.
- Use Clear Containers: Clear containers allow you to monitor root growth and ensure the water levels stay appropriate.
- Water Depth: Be sure the stems are submerged, but the leaves stay dry to avoid rot.
Benefits of Growing Herbs in Water:
- Space-Saving: Ideal for small spaces, apartments, or indoor gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Water-grown herbs require minimal care compared to soil plants.
- Always Fresh: You’ll always have fresh herbs at hand for cooking, teas, or garnishes.
With these 8 herbs, you can easily grow a small indoor garden in water, enhancing your space with both beauty and flavor.