Stop Buying Herbs! Grow These 15 at Home All Year Long

If you’ve ever groaned at the price of a tiny bundle of herbs—or worse, thrown away a wilted bunch you barely used—this one’s for you. The truth? You can grow your favorite herbs at home, year-round, with minimal space and effort.

Whether you’ve got a sunny kitchen window, a balcony, or a few pots on the patio, these 15 herbs will save you money and boost every meal with fresh flavor. Let’s dig in!

 Why Grow Herbs at Home?

Before we get to the list, here’s why homegrown herbs are a game-changer:

• Freshness on demand – Snip what you need, no waste.

• Saves money – Herbs cost a lot at the store, especially organic ones.

• Better flavor – Freshly picked herbs pack more punch.

• Pest control – Many herbs repel unwanted bugs in the garden.

• Therapeutic – Tending to plants is good for the soul.

 Best Conditions for Year-Round Herb Growing

Most herbs thrive with:

• 4–6 hours of sunlight daily (a sunny window or grow lights will do)

• Well-drained soil (pots with drainage holes are perfect)

• Regular trimming to encourage bushy growth

• Avoiding overwatering – herbs don’t like soggy roots

 15 Herbs You Can Grow All Year Long

1. Basil

• Loves: Warmth and sun

• Tip: Pinch off flowers to keep it leafy

• Best For: Pasta, pizza, salads

2. Parsley

• Loves: Bright, indirect light

• Tip: Cut from the outside to keep it producing

• Best For: Soups, sauces, garnish

3. Mint

• Loves: Partial shade and moist soil

• Tip: Grows like crazy—keep it in a pot to contain it

• Best For: Teas, cocktails, desserts

4. Thyme

• Loves: Full sun and drier soil

• Tip: Snip frequently to prevent it from becoming woody

• Best For: Roasts, stews, marinades

5. Rosemary

• Loves: Lots of sunlight

• Tip: Let the soil dry out between waterings

• Best For: Roasted veggies, breads, meat

6. Chives

• Loves: Bright light, steady moisture

• Tip: Trim low to encourage fresh growth

• Best For: Eggs, dips, potatoes

7. Oregano

• Loves: Sun and dry conditions

• Tip: Stronger flavor when grown in poor soil

• Best For: Italian dishes, pizzas, grilled meats

8. Cilantro (Coriander)

• Loves: Cooler temps and partial sun

• Tip: Harvest often—bolts quickly in heat

• Best For: Tacos, curries, salsas

9. Lemongrass

• Loves: Warmth and moisture

• Tip: Grow from stalks bought at the store!

• Best For: Soups, teas, stir-fries

10. Sage

• Loves: Full sun, well-drained soil

• Tip: Avoid overwatering—let it dry between drinks

• Best For: Stuffings, poultry, sauces

11. Tarragon

• Loves: Bright light and moderate moisture

• Tip: French tarragon is best for cooking

• Best For: Fish, chicken, dressings

12. Dill

• Loves: Cooler temps and sun

• Tip: Grows fast—plant more every few weeks

• Best For: Pickles, dips, seafood

13. Bay Laurel (Bay Leaves)

• Loves: Bright light and good airflow

• Tip: A slow grower, but very low maintenance

• Best For: Stews, soups, braises

14. Lavender

• Loves: Sun and sandy soil

• Tip: Needs excellent drainage—don’t overwater

• Best For: Teas, baking, aromatherapy

15. Marjoram

• Loves: Full sun and light watering

• Tip: Keep it trimmed for fuller growth

• Best For: Mediterranean dishes, dressings, oils

 Growing Indoors vs. Outdoors

Indoors:
Perfect for colder months. Use south-facing windows or grow lights. Great for herbs like basil, chives, and parsley.

Outdoors:
Ideal in spring and summer. Place pots where they get plenty of sun, and bring tender herbs indoors before frost hits.

 How to Keep Herbs Thriving in Winter

• Use LED grow lights if daylight is short

• Keep them away from cold drafts

• Don’t let pots sit in water—check drainage

• Mist occasionally to add humidity

 Bonus Tip: Start with Cuttings or Grocery Herbs

Some herbs, like mint, basil, and oregano, root easily in water. Snip a stem, pop it in a jar, and let roots form. Then plant in soil. Easy peasy.

 Final Thoughts

Growing your own herbs isn’t just about saving money—it’s about flavor, convenience, and the joy of having a bit of green in your home all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a total beginner, these 15 herbs are a smart way to start.

So stop tossing wilted parsley and overpriced basil into your cart—grow your own, and enjoy fresh herbs anytime you like!

✅ Quick Herb Starter Checklist

• Pick 3–5 herbs you use often

• Get small pots with drainage holes

• Use good potting soil

• Place near a sunny window (or get a grow light)

• Water only when the top inch feels dry

• Trim regularly and enjoy!