Growing herbs in water offers an easy and space-efficient way to enjoy fresh, flavorful ingredients throughout the year. Whether you’re an apartment dweller with limited space or simply looking for a low-maintenance gardening option, water-grown herbs bring the outdoors inside, offering both culinary delights and natural beauty. Here’s a guide to 18 herbs that thrive in water, along with tips for ensuring their health and vitality.
- Basil
A staple in Italian cooking, basil is rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties. Change the water every 3-5 days to keep it fresh and thriving. With regular care, basil provides a steady supply of aromatic leaves. - Mint
Known for its cooling effects and digestive benefits, mint grows quickly in water. Refresh the water every 2-3 days for healthy, abundant growth. - Oregano
Oregano boasts antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It thrives in water with a weekly water change (every 5-7 days) and provides flavorful, aromatic leaves. - Sage
Often used for its cognitive benefits and antimicrobial properties, sage adds a soothing aroma to your space. Change the water every 1-2 weeks, ensuring leaves aren’t submerged to avoid rot. - Rosemary
Rosemary enhances memory and adds a pleasant aroma. It takes longer to root in water but can last long-term with patience. Change the water every 2 weeks for steady growth. - Thyme
With immune-boosting properties, thyme is easy to grow in water. Change the water every 1-2 weeks and trim it regularly to encourage healthy growth. - Chives
Chives are a versatile herb with mild onion flavor and are rich in vitamins. Refresh the water every 4-5 days and snip the leaves often to promote healthy growth. - Lemongrass
Known for its citrusy aroma and potential anti-anxiety benefits, lemongrass thrives in water. Change the water every 1-2 weeks and enjoy its refreshing fragrance. - Cilantro
Cilantro, or coriander, is a detoxifying herb that aids digestion. While it can be a little picky, it grows well in water with frequent water changes every 3-4 days and adequate sunlight. - Parsley
Rich in vitamins K and C, parsley is more than just a garnish. Change the water every 3-4 days, and pinch off flowers to keep it growing strong. - Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has a calming effect and is used to relieve stress. It propagates easily in water; change the water every 1-2 weeks for continuous growth. - Stevia
Stevia is a natural sweetener that doesn’t impact blood sugar. Grow it in water by changing the water every 1-2 weeks, and place it in bright, indirect light for the best results. - Marjoram
Marjoram has antioxidant properties and adds a warm, aromatic flavor to dishes. Root it in water and change the water every 2 weeks to encourage healthy growth. - Spearmint
Another mint variety, spearmint supports digestion and is perfect for teas. Change the water every 2-3 days and pinch off tips to encourage branching. - Tarragon
Tarragon, with its unique flavor, may help regulate blood sugar. It takes longer to root in water but thrives with a warm environment and a water change every 2 weeks. - Lavender
Lavender promotes relaxation and better sleep. Root it in water and change the water every 2 weeks, ensuring it receives plenty of sunlight for optimal growth. - Dill
Dill has digestive benefits and is often used in pickling. Change the water every 3-4 days to keep it thriving, and pinch off flowers to encourage leaf production. - Chervil
Chervil has a mild anise flavor and is perfect for salads or garnishes. Change the water every 2-3 days to keep it healthy and vibrant.
Growing herbs in water is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy fresh, homegrown ingredients all year long. With the right care and attention, these 18 herbs can flourish in any space, offering both culinary and health benefits. Whether you’re cooking up a fresh pesto or steeping a soothing tea, having a water-grown herb garden is a satisfying, sustainable addition to your home.