Bring fresh flavor and fragrance to your kitchen year-round with easy-to-grow indoor herbs like basil, mint, rosemary, and thyme. These culinary staples thrive on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights—just give them water, light, and a little love.
Snip often to keep them growing strong, and enjoy their vibrant leaves in teas, pastas, salads, and more. Bonus: some, like mint, rosemary, and lemon balm, help repel mosquitoes naturally. Your kitchen will smell incredible, your meals will pop with flavor, and those pesky bugs won’t stand a chance.
A tender annual herb with lush, aromatic, bright green leaves and a sweet, peppery scent. Basil grows quickly in warm conditions and is a staple in Mediterranean, Thai, and Italian cuisine. It produces small white or purple flowers if left unpruned, which can reduce leaf flavor.
- Height: 18–24 inches (45–60 cm)
- Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds; may aid digestion and reduce stress.
- Light: Full sun; 6–8 hours daily.
- Soil: Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- How to Use: Add fresh to pasta, pizza, pesto, salads, soups, and infused oils. Best used raw or added at the end of cooking.
- When to Harvest: Start picking leaves once the plant reaches about 6 inches (15 cm) tall. Regular harvesting encourages bushy growth.
- How to Harvest: Use scissors or pinch off leaves or stems just above a leaf node (where leaves grow from the stem). Avoid stripping one stem entirely—harvest evenly.
- Tip: Remove flower buds early to maintain leaf production and enhance flavor.
- Warning: Non-toxic to pets.
- Bonus: Basil is known to repel mosquitoes and flies due to its pungent scent, making it useful near kitchen windows or patios
A slow-growing evergreen shrub or small tree with leathery, aromatic dark green leaves. Native to the Mediterranean, it’s prized for both culinary and ornamental use. In containers, it can be trimmed into tidy shapes or grown as a small patio tree.
- Height: In containers, it can be trimmed to maintain a height of 3–6 feet (90–180 cm), though it can grow taller when not pruned
- Benefits: Bay leaves have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, support digestion, and may help reduce anxiety due to their calming effects.
- Light: Bright light to full sun; at least 6 hours of light daily.
- Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
- Water: Water regularly but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings; do not overwater.
- How to Use: Add dried or fresh leaves to soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. Remove before serving.
- When to Harvest: Pick mature leaves throughout the year, though flavor is strongest in late summer.
- How to Harvest: Snip individual leaves or small branches with sharp scissors or pruners. Older leaves are more flavorful than new growth.
- Tip: Dry harvested leaves flat in a cool, dark place. Flavor improves after drying and lasts for months in airtight jars.
- Warning: While Bay leaves are generally safe for humans in culinary amounts, they can be toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities.
A hardy, clump-forming perennial herb with slender, hollow green leaves and globe-shaped lavender-pink flowers. Part of the onion family, it adds mild onion flavor and a pop of color to both gardens and plates. Great for borders, containers, and indoor pots.
- Height: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
- Benefits: Contains antioxidants, may help reduce inflammation and support immune health.
- Light: Full sun; 6+ hours of light daily. Tolerates some partial shade indoors.
- Soil: Chives prefer rich, well-draining soil with consistent moisture.
- Water: Keep soil moist but not soggy; do not let it dry out completely.
- How to Use: Snip leaves to top soups, eggs, salads, and baked potatoes, or mix into compound butter.
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting when leaves are about 6 inches (15 cm) tall, usually 60 days after planting.
- How to Harvest: Use scissors to cut leaves at the base, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the soil. Leave some growth to allow the plant to regrow.
- Tip: Regular harvesting encourages fresh, tender growth. You can also use the edible flowers to garnish dishes.
- Warning: Chives are toxic to dogs and cats, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset and damage to red blood cells if ingested.
A feathery, aromatic annual herb with fine, thread-like green leaves and flat clusters of yellow flowers. Dill brings a tangy, fresh flavor to dishes and is especially popular in pickling, salads, and seafood recipes. It adds height and texture to herb gardens and grows well indoors in bright light.
- Height: 3-5 feet (90-150 cm)
- Benefits: Aids digestion, may reduce bloating, and has mild antimicrobial properties.
- Light: Full sun; 6+ hours of direct light per day.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil enriched with organic matter.
- Water: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering.
- How to Use: Use fresh leaves in salads, dips, soups, and pickling; seeds are also used as a spice.
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting leaves once the plant reaches 8 inches (20 cm) tall. Harvest seeds when flower heads turn brown and dry.
- How to Harvest: Snip fresh leaves as needed, cutting close to the stem. For seeds, cut seed heads and dry them upside down in paper bags.
- Tip: Frequent leaf harvesting encourages more growth. Avoid cutting the main stem too early to allow for flowering and seed production.
- Pets: Non-toxic to pets, but excessive consumption may cause mild digestive upset.
A tender perennial often grown as an annual in cooler climates, marjoram has soft, oval, gray-green leaves and a delicate, sweet, and slightly floral flavor. It resembles oregano but is milder and more refined. Small white or pink flowers bloom in late summer, attracting pollinators. A charming and useful herb indoors.
- Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
- Benefits: Supports digestion, may ease muscle tension, and is traditionally used to calm stress and promote sleep.
- Light: Full sun to bright indoor light; at least 6 hours of sun daily.
- Soil: Well-draining, slightly sandy soil with moderate fertility.
- Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- How to Use: Add to soups, sauces, roasted vegetables, and meat dishes. It blends beautifully with Mediterranean flavors.
- When to Harvest: Start harvesting once plants reach 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) tall. The flavor is best just before flowering.
- How to Harvest: Snip stems just above a leaf node to encourage bushier growth. Use fresh or dry the stems in small bundles in a dark, airy place.
- Tip: Harvest regularly to keep the plant producing fresh, tender growth throughout the season.
- Warning: Marjoram is toxic to dogs and cats and may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
Fast-growing, spreading perennial with square stems and bright green, serrated leaves. Mint is famously aromatic, with a refreshing, cool flavor. It comes in many varieties, including spearmint and peppermint. Indoors, it grows well in containers, where it won’t take over the garden.
- Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
- Benefits: Eases digestion, relieves headaches, and freshens breath. Known for its calming effects and ability to reduce nausea.
- Light: Bright indirect light or partial sun; tolerates some shade.
- Soil: Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Mint loves humidity.
- How to Use: Add to teas, salads, sauces, cocktails, and desserts. Great for making refreshing drinks like mojitos and mint lemonade.
- When to Harvest: Start picking leaves when the plant is 4–6 inches tall. Best harvested before flowering for peak flavor.
- How to Harvest: Snip sprigs just above a leaf pair to encourage branching. Frequent trimming helps keep plants lush and productive.
- Tip: Use fresh or hang sprigs upside down to dry. Store dried leaves in airtight jars for year-round use.
- Pets: Non-toxic to cats and dogs, though large amounts may cause mild digestive upset.
- Bonus: Repels ants, mosquitoes, flies, and spiders due to its strong menthol aroma, which overwhelms and deters common household pests.
Woody-stemmed perennial herb with small, oval, gray-green leaves and a strong, earthy aroma. Oregano is a Mediterranean staple widely used in Italian, Greek, and Mexican cuisine. Indoors, it’s compact, easy to grow in pots, and thrives on neglect.
- Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
- Benefits: Contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds. Supports immune health and aids digestion.
- Light: Needs full sun or bright light for best flavor; at least 6 hours daily.
- Soil: Well-draining soil; slightly dry, sandy soils are ideal.
- Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- How to Use: Add fresh or dried leaves to pizzas, pasta sauces, soups, and roasted vegetables. Great in Mediterranean and Mexican dishes.
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting once the plant is 4–6 inches tall. Flavor is strongest just before flowering.
- How to Harvest: Cut stems back to just above a leaf node. Frequent harvesting encourages bushier growth.
- Tip: Dry oregano by hanging small bunches upside down in a warm, dry place. Store in airtight containers for year-round use.
- Warning: While safe in culinary amounts, large quantities may cause gastrointestinal upset in pets.
- Bonus: Oregano oil is reported to repel mosquitoes, though its effectiveness can vary depending on the concentration and specific mosquito species
Biennial herb with bright green, finely divided curly or flat leaves. Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley has a stronger flavor, while curly parsley is often used for garnish. It’s easy to grow indoors and adds freshness to a wide range of dishes.
- Height: 10–18 inches (25–45 cm)
- Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Supports kidney health, freshens breath and may help reduce inflammation.
- Light: Needs full sun to partial shade; 5–6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Soil: Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- How to Use: Add fresh leaves to soups, stews, salads, tabbouleh, and sauces. Can also be blended into pestos and dips.
- When to Harvest: Start picking once the plant has several sets of mature leaves, usually 6–8 weeks after planting.
- How to Harvest: Snip outer stems at the base to allow inner shoots to keep growing. Avoid cutting more than one-third at a time.
- Tip: Regular harvesting encourages continuous leaf production and helps prevent bolting in warm weather.
- Warning: Parsley is generally safe for dogs and cats in small amounts, but large quantities—especially of certain types like spring parsley—can be toxic.
Woody perennial with needle-like, evergreen leaves and a bold, pine-like fragrance. Rosemary thrives indoors in containers with good airflow and plenty of light. It’s prized for both its ornamental value, culinary uses, and healing properties.
- Height: 18–36 inches (45–90 cm) indoors
- Benefits: Supports memory and concentration, has anti-inflammatory properties, and promotes healthy digestion.
- Light: Needs full sun; at least 6–8 hours of bright light daily.
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil; avoid heavy, wet soil.
- Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings; rosemary hates soggy roots.
- How to Use: Add sprigs to roasted meats, potatoes, breads, soups, and infused oils. Also used in herbal teas and aromatherapy.
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting once the plant is well-established, usually after 8–10 inches of growth.
- How to Harvest: Snip young stems with scissors, taking no more than one-third of the plant at a time to avoid stress.
- Tip: Frequent light harvesting encourages bushier, healthier growth and better flavor development.
- Pets: Non-toxic to cats and dogs, but large amounts may cause digestive upset.
- Bonus: Its aromatic, needle-like leaves are rich in camphor and cineole, compounds that naturally deter mosquitoes.
Woody perennial herb with soft, gray-green, velvety leaves and a strong, earthy aroma. It’s easy to grow indoors and brings bold flavor and texture to your herb garden. Also produces spikes of purple-blue flowers when mature.
- Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
- Benefits: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; supports memory, digestion, and oral health.
- Light: Needs full sun; at least 6–8 hours of bright light per day.
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with good airflow around the roots.
- Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- How to Use: Perfect for seasoning meats, stuffing, roasted vegetables, and herbal teas. Also used in natural remedies and essential oils.
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting once the plant is established and has enough mature leaves, typically after it reaches 6 inches tall.
- How to Harvest: Snip individual leaves or cut stems just above a leaf node. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
- Tip: Regular harvesting helps maintain shape and encourages bushy, vigorous growth.
- Pets: Generally safe for pets in small amounts, but excessive consumption can cause digestive upset.
- Bonus: Sage repels mosquitoes and other flying insects thanks to its strong aroma, which act as a natural bug deterrent
Slender perennial herb with narrow, aromatic green leaves and a slightly bittersweet, licorice-like flavor. Often grown as French tarragon indoors for its superior taste. Ideal for small pots on sunny windowsills.
- Height: 18–36 inches (45–90 cm)
- Benefits: Aids digestion, helps stimulate appetite, and has mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Light: Requires full sun; at least 6 hours of direct light daily.
- Soil: Well-draining soil with moderate fertility; avoid overly rich or wet soils.
- Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Tarragon prefers slightly dry conditions over soggy roots.
- How to Use: Excellent in sauces, chicken, fish, eggs, and vinegars. A key ingredient in Béarnaise sauce and French cuisine.
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting once the plant is at least 6 inches tall and has several leafy stems.
- How to Harvest: Cut young shoots or snip off leaves in the morning when oils are most concentrated. Always leave some growth to allow the plant to recover.
- Tip: Frequent trimming encourages fresh, bushy growth and prevents flowering, which can reduce flavor intensity.
- Warning: Tarragon is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested in significant amounts.
Hardy, low-growing perennial herb with tiny, aromatic leaves and woody stems. Forms dense mats, making it great for containers, windowsills, or as an indoor edging plant. Known for its earthy, savory flavor.
- Height: 6–12 inches (15–30 cm)
- Benefits: Antibacterial, antifungal, and rich in antioxidants. Supports respiratory health and boosts the immune system.
- Light: Full sun; needs at least 6 hours of direct light per day.
- Soil: Light, well-draining soil; slightly sandy or gritty mix preferred.
- Water: Water sparingly. Allow soil to dry between waterings—thyme dislikes soggy roots.
- How to Use: Ideal for seasoning meats, stews, soups, roasted vegetables, and infused oils. Adds depth to Mediterranean dishes.
- When to Harvest: Pick thyme just before it blooms, when flavor is most intense. You can harvest throughout the growing season.
- How to Harvest: Snip 4–6 inch sprigs using clean scissors, ideally in the morning after dew has dried. Avoid cutting more than a third of the plant at a time.
- Tip: Regular harvesting keeps the plant compact, encourages fresh growth, and delays flowering.
- Pets: Non-toxic to cats and dogs when used in small amounts. Excessive ingestion may cause mild GI upset.
- Bonus: Thyme repels mosquitoes with its aromatic oil rich in thymol, a natural insect deterrent.
Aromatic, bushy perennial herb with gray-green, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of small white to pale purple flowers. Known for its euphoric effect on cats and its calming properties for humans.
- Height: 18–36 inches (45–90 cm)
- Benefits: Calms nerves, eases anxiety, promotes sleep, and helps with digestion. Often used as a gentle tea for stress relief.
- Light: Full sun to partial shade; needs at least 4–6 hours of light daily indoors.
- Soil: Well-draining, average-quality soil. Tolerates poor soils but prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Water: Water moderately. Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
- How to Use: Brew leaves into herbal tea, add to calming blends, or dry for use in cat toys.
- When to Harvest: Harvest just before flowering for the highest essential oil content and strongest aroma.
- How to Harvest: Use scissors to cut stems 3–4 inches above the base. You can cut the whole plant back to encourage regrowth.
- Tip: Dry harvested leaves in a shaded, ventilated space. Store in sealed jars for cat toys or tea use.
- Warning: Non-toxic to pets. Cats may become overly excited or aggressive when exposed to fresh or dried leaves, so monitor use.
- Bonus: Catnip contains nepetalactone, which repels mosquitoes, flies, and other pests.
Delicate annual herb with lacy, fern-like leaves and a mild flavor similar to parsley with a hint of anise. Often called “gourmet’s parsley.”
- Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
- Benefits: Aids digestion, has mild diuretic properties, and may help with skin inflammation.
- Light: Bright indirect light; avoid intense sun, which can cause bolting.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.
- Water: Keep evenly moist; avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- How to Use: Finely chop and use in egg dishes, soups, sauces, and French cuisine. A staple in fines herbes blends.
- When to Harvest: Harvest young, tender leaves before the plant bolts or flowers.
- How to Harvest: Snip leaves as needed from the outside of the plant. Harvest often to delay flowering.
- Tip: Chervil is best used fresh—it loses its delicate flavor quickly when dried.
- Pets: Non-toxic to cats and dogs. No known concerns.
Woody perennial with gray-green foliage and fragrant purple flowers. Known for its soothing aroma and ornamental appeal, lavender can also be grown indoors and offers calming health benefits.
- Height: 12–36 inches (30–90 cm), depending on variety
- Benefits: Promotes relaxation, eases anxiety, supports sleep, and has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Light: Full sun; needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil: Sandy, well-draining soil with low fertility; avoid rich or wet soil.
- Water: Water sparingly. Let the soil dry between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- How to Use: Use in sachets, teas, lemonades, syrups, baked goods, skincare, and oils. Great for sleep pillows and potpourri.
- When to Harvest: Harvest flower spikes when about half the buds have opened for best fragrance and oil content.
- How to Harvest: Cut stems above the foliage using clean shears. Gather into bundles and hang to dry in a dark, airy spot.
- Tip: Regular harvesting encourages reblooming and keeps plants tidy.
- Warning: Mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Can cause nausea or drowsiness if ingested in large amounts.
- Bonus: Lavender is known for its natural insect-repelling properties, deterring pests like moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitoes
Bushy perennial with soft, crinkled green leaves and a refreshing lemon scent. Part of the mint family and spreads easily.
- Height: 18–36 inches (45–90 cm)
- Benefits: Calms anxiety, supports sleep, aids digestion, and soothes cold sores. Also has antiviral and antioxidant properties.
- Light: Bright light to partial sun; avoid intense afternoon sun indoors.
- Soil: Moist, rich, well-draining soil; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.
- Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch feels dry.
- How to Use: Use fresh in teas, salads, fruit dishes, and desserts. Also great in balms and tinctures for stress relief.
- When to Harvest: Pick just before flowering when essential oil levels are highest.
- How to Harvest: Snip stems or pinch off leaves in the morning after dew dries. Avoid harvesting more than a third of the plant at once.
- Tip: Frequent harvesting prevents flowering and keeps the flavor fresh and citrusy.
- Pets: Non-toxic to cats and dogs. May cause mild drowsiness in large doses.
- Bonus: Lemon Balm repels mosquitoes thanks to its high content of citronellal and lemony compounds that naturally deter these pests.
Tall, clumping perennial grass with slender, arching stalks that emit a strong lemon aroma when crushed. Popular in Asian cuisine and herbal remedies.
- Height: 24–36 inches (60–90 cm) indoors
- Benefits: Aids digestion, relieves stress, supports detoxification, and has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Light: Full sun; needs at least 6 hours of direct light daily. A sunny windowsill or grow light works well indoors.
- Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with added compost or organic matter. Slightly sandy soil is ideal.
- Water: Water consistently to keep soil moist but not soggy. Do not let it dry out completely.
- How to Use: Use the lower stalks in soups, curries, teas, stir-fries, and marinades. Leaves can be steeped for tea or infused into oils.
- When to Harvest: Harvest stalks once they are at least ½ inch thick near the base. Typically ready after 3–4 months of growth.
- How to Harvest: Cut stalks near the base with a sharp knife or scissors. Harvest outer stalks first and allow inner ones to continue growing.
- Tip: Regular trimming encourages new shoots and keeps the plant compact. Save leaves for tea or drying.
- Warning: Non-toxic to cats and dogs in small amounts, but excessive ingestion may cause stomach upset.
- Bonus: Lemongrass contains citronella, a natural insect repellent, which helps deter mosquitoes and other insects.
Fast-growing annual herb with bright green, lacy leaves, and a sharp, citrusy aroma. Widely used in Latin American, Indian, and Asian cuisine.
- Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
- Benefits: Supports digestion, helps detox heavy metals, and offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Also rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
- Light: Bright light or partial sun; at least 4–6 hours daily. Prefers cooler temperatures indoors.
- Soil: Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with compost mixed in. Slightly acidic to neutral pH.
- Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Avoid letting it dry out completely.
- How to Use: Use fresh in salsa, guacamole, soups, curries, and chutneys. Add at the end of cooking to preserve flavor.
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting once plants are about 6 inches tall. Best harvested before flowering for optimal flavor.
- How to Harvest: Snip the outer leaves with scissors, allowing the center leaves to continue growing. Harvest frequently to delay bolting.
- Tip: Cilantro bolts quickly in warm temps. Grow in cooler spots or succession plant every few weeks for a steady supply.
- Pets: Non-toxic to pets, but large amounts may cause mild stomach upset in sensitive animals.
Woody, evergreen perennial herb with narrow, dark green leaves and a peppery, pine-like flavor. Compact and tidy, perfect for pots or edging.
- Height: 12–18 inches (30–45 cm)
- Benefits: Aids digestion, relieves flatulence, and has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Also used to ease sore throats and mild coughs.
- Light: Full sun; needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flavor and growth.
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. Tolerates poor soils but prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Water: Water moderately. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- How to Use: Great in bean dishes, stuffing, sausages, roasted meats, and herbal vinegars. Pairs well with thyme and rosemary.
- When to Harvest: Harvest sprigs throughout the growing season. Best flavor is before flowering in mid to late summer.
- How to Harvest: Snip 4–6 inch sprigs with clean scissors. Regular trimming helps maintain shape and encourages fresh growth.
- Tip: Winter savory is hardy and long-lived. Trim back after flowering to keep it bushy and productive.
- Pets: Non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to grow indoors or outdoors around pets.
Clump-forming perennial herb with flat, grass-like green leaves and a mild garlic flavor. Produces edible white flowers and thrives indoors in containers.
- Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
- Benefits: Supports digestion, boosts the immune system, and contains antioxidants. Also has mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Light: Full sun to partial shade; at least 4–6 hours of bright light daily. A sunny windowsill works well indoors.
- Soil: Loose, well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter. A neutral to slightly acidic pH is ideal.
- Water: Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially during active growth. Avoid soggy soil to prevent root issues.
- How to Use: Snip leaves to garnish soups, stir-fries, noodles, omelets, and savory pancakes. Flowers are edible and add a mild garlicky bite to salads.
- When to Harvest: Harvest once plants reach about 6 inches tall. Best flavor is in early to mid-season before flowering.
- How to Harvest: Cut leaves with scissors about 1 inch above the base. Leave some growth so the plant continues to produce.
- Tip: Trim regularly to prevent flowering and promote tender new growth. Divide clumps every couple of years to keep them vigorous.
- Warning: Garlic chives are toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion may cause vomiting, lethargy, and damage to red blood cells.
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
