11 Herbs You Can Grow With Just Water All Year Round

Author

Ark
April 11, 2025

If you love cooking with fresh herbs but don’t have a garden—or even a sunny balcony—don’t worry. You can still grow your own flavorful herbs right at home using nothing more than a jar of water! That’s right—many herbs grow perfectly well in water alone. It’s simple, soil-free, and a fantastic way to have a year-round supply of greenery right on your kitchen windowsill.

Here are 11 amazing herbs you can grow in just water, all year long:

1. Basil

Basil thrives in water and loves warmth. Snip off a 4–6 inch stem just below a node (where leaves grow), remove the lower leaves, and place the stem in a glass of water. Keep it in a sunny spot and change the water every few days. Soon, you’ll see roots forming.

2. Mint

One of the easiest herbs to grow in water, mint is very forgiving and fast-growing. Use cuttings from your favorite variety—peppermint, spearmint, or chocolate mint—and place them in a jar with clean water. Watch it take off!

3. Rosemary

This woody herb takes a bit longer to root, but once it does, it grows steadily. Use young, flexible stems rather than older, woody ones. Place the cuttings in water and keep them in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.

4. Oregano

Another herb that loves water, oregano grows quickly and easily. Snip a few stems, remove the lower leaves, and place them in a cup of water. Make sure they get lots of light for the best flavor.

5. Thyme

Thyme’s tiny leaves pack a big punch, and luckily, it grows well hydroponically. Choose green, healthy stems and snip just above a node. Place the cuttings in water and enjoy fresh thyme all year.

6. Sage

Sage can be a little tricky, but with patience, it will root in water. Use soft cuttings from new growth. Keep them in a warm location and give them lots of indirect light. Once rooted, sage thrives indoors.

7. Stevia

Want a natural sweetener? Grow stevia in water! Cut fresh stevia stems and place them in water, avoiding direct sun. It’s perfect for sweetening tea or homemade desserts.

8. Lemon Balm

A cousin of mint, lemon balm loves water. Take a few fresh cuttings and place them in a glass. In a week or two, you’ll see roots. It smells divine and is great for calming teas.

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9. Chives

Chives grow quickly and don’t need much fuss. Simply place the cuttings or even leftover rooted store-bought chives in a glass of water, and you’ll have a steady supply of this onion-flavored herb.

10. Tarragon

French tarragon is a lesser-known but delightful herb for fish and poultry dishes. You can propagate it in water during spring or early summer. Just take 4–6 inch softwood cuttings and wait for them to root.

11. Cilantro (Coriander)

Cilantro grows surprisingly well in water, though it prefers cooler temperatures. Take healthy stems, submerge the bottom in a jar of water, and refresh the water often. Use fresh leaves in salsas, salads, or as garnish.

Tips for Success

  • Use glass jars or vases so you can monitor root growth.

  • Change the water every 2–3 days to prevent mold or bacteria.

  • Use filtered or room-temperature water for best results.

  • Place the jars in a bright area, such as a windowsill with indirect sunlight.

  • Trim regularly to encourage new growth and prevent legginess.

Growing herbs in water is a perfect solution for apartment dwellers, kitchen gardeners, or anyone looking to bring some green into their home. With a few cuttings, some water, and a sunny spot, you’ll have fresh herbs ready to snip and savor—no soil or stress required.

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