How to grow fresh herbs indoors all winter

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Fresh basil in January is possible. Indoor herbs need two things above all: lots of light and pots that drain.

Start with the easy ones

Parsley, chives, mint, thyme and oregano are the most forgiving indoors. Basil grows well too, but it wants warmth and plenty of light. Rosemary likes bright light and soil that dries out between waterings.

Give them enough light

Most herbs want at least 6 hours of direct sun. A south-facing window is best. In the short days of winter, a grow light running 12–16 hours a day makes a huge difference, and it lets you grow herbs anywhere in the house.

Or skip the soil

An indoor hydroponic garden grows herbs in water with a built-in light and timer. It's the most hands-off way to grow herbs on a kitchen counter, and plants grow fast.

Water the right way

Use pots with drainage holes and water when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering kills more indoor herbs than anything else. Dry indoor air can stress plants, so a light misting or a tray of pebbles and water nearby helps.

Harvest often

Regular snipping keeps herbs bushy. Cut stems just above a pair of leaves, and never take more than about a third of the plant at once. Pinch off basil flower buds as soon as you see them.

Feed lightly

Herbs in pots run out of nutrients over time. Feed every few weeks with a diluted liquid fertilizer, following the label.

Gear for this job

• Indoor hydroponic garden: Herbs and lettuce all year on the counter.
• Indoor herb kit: A windowsill herb garden.
• LED grow light: A windowsill isn't enough light in late winter.
• Houseplant pots: Pots with drainage for indoor plants.
• Plant mister: Humidity for tropical houseplants.
• Harvest snips: Fast cuts for herbs and peppers.

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