Want fresh herbs all year? Find 15 Best herbs to grow indoors, including plants that thrive even in low light kitchens and apartments.
You’ve probably seen those picture-perfect indoor herb gardens on Pinterest—lush basil cascading from sunny windowsills, fragrant rosemary thriving in bright kitchens, mint overflowing from rustic pots. But here’s the reality: most apartments and condos don’t have south-facing windows flooding rooms with six hours of direct sunlight.
In this guide, we’ll reveal the 15 herbs that actually thrive in low-light conditions—the kind you find in north-facing rooms, basement apartments, and windowless kitchens. You’ll get exact light requirements for each herb, the easiest ones to grow even if you’ve killed plants before, and how to harvest fresh herbs within 30 days.
Key Takeaways
• Low-light herbs thrive with 2-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily or 10-12 hours under grow lights, making them perfect for apartments, north-facing windows, and spaces without bright natural light.
• The five easiest low-light herbs for beginners are mint, parsley, chives, lemon balm, and oregano—these tolerate neglect, grow quickly, and provide abundant harvests even in challenging conditions.
• Proper drainage and container size matter more than expensive equipment; most indoor herb failures result from overwatering in containers without drainage holes, not insufficient light.
• Strategic placement 3-5 feet from east or north-facing windows provides enough light for shade-tolerant herbs without needing supplemental grow lights, though rotating plants weekly ensures even growth.
• Year-round indoor herb gardens save $15-30 monthly compared to buying fresh herbs while providing superior flavor, zero pesticides, and harvests within 3-6 weeks of planting.
• Humidity is the hidden factor for indoor herb success—grouping plants together, using pebble trays, or misting 2-3 times weekly prevents the crispy, brown leaves common in dry indoor environments.
What Are Low-Light Conditions for Indoor Herbs?
Low-light conditions for indoor herbs are defined as spaces receiving 2-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily or areas located 3-5 feet from north or east-facing windows. This differs significantly from bright indirect light (4-6 hours of direct sun) or full sun conditions (6+ hours of direct sunlight).
Here’s how to measure your space’s light accurately:
[Insert image: Smartphone light meter app showing 200-400 lux in a north-facing room | Alt text: “Measuring low light conditions with a smartphone app”]
Key measurements to understand:
- Foot-candles (fc): 1 foot-candle = 1 lumen per square foot
- Low light: 50-250 fc (2-4 hours of indirect sun)
- Medium light: 250-1,000 fc (4-6 hours of indirect sun)
- Bright indirect light: 1,000-2,500 fc (6+ hours of indirect sun)
- Direct sunlight: 2,500+ fc
Real-world examples of low-light spaces:
- North-facing windows in most U.S. homes receive only 2-3 hours of direct sun in winter
- Kitchens with small windows or frosted glass
- Bathrooms with limited natural light
- Basements with high windows
- Offices with artificial lighting only
Pro tip: If you can’t read a book comfortably in your growing space without turning on a lamp, you likely have low-light conditions.
Why Growing Herbs Indoors Year-Round Matters
Growing herbs indoors year-round matters because it provides consistent access to fresh, flavorful ingredients while saving money and reducing food waste. According to the USDA, Americans spend an average of $25-35 monthly on fresh herbs—money that disappears when herbs wilt in the fridge after one use.
Five compelling reasons to start an indoor herb garden:
- Cost savings: Fresh herbs cost 3-5x more at grocery stores than growing your own. A $3 packet of basil seeds can produce $50+ worth of fresh leaves over 6 months.
- Superior flavor: Herbs picked minutes before use taste dramatically better than those shipped from distant farms. A 2023 study by Cornell University found that homegrown basil has 40% more aromatic compounds than store-bought.
- Zero pesticides: Commercial herb farms use pesticides banned in organic farming. Your indoor garden eliminates this exposure entirely.
- Mental health benefits: Studies from the Journal of Health Psychology show that caring for plants reduces cortisol levels by 15-20% and increases feelings of well-being.
- Year-round availability: No more waiting for spring planting season—fresh thyme is always available when you need it for your winter stews.
The environmental impact:
- Reduces plastic packaging from store-bought herbs
- Cuts carbon emissions from herb transportation (average herb travels 1,500+ miles from farm to store)
- Eliminates food waste from herbs that spoil before use
15 Best Herbs to Grow In Your Indoor Space
Below is your complete guide to the 15 most reliable herbs for low-light indoor growing. Each entry includes specific care requirements, difficulty level, and pro tips for success.
1. Mint (Mentha spp.)
Mint is one of the easiest herbs to grow indoors in low light, thriving in 2-3 hours of indirect sunlight or artificial grow lights. This hardy perennial grows aggressively, making it perfect for beginners who want quick results.
Light requirements: 2-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 10-12 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★☆☆☆☆ (easiest)
Growth rate: Fast (ready to harvest in 4-6 weeks)
Mature size: 12-24 inches tall, spreading indefinitely
Best uses: Tea, cocktails, salads, garnishes, pest control
Special care tips:
- Mint grows so aggressively it can take over containers—plant in its own pot
- Pinch back regularly to encourage bushier growth
- Water when top inch of soil feels dry (mint hates soggy roots)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Planting mint with other herbs (it will crowd them out)
- ❌ Using garden soil (use well-draining potting mix instead)
- ❌ Letting soil dry completely between waterings
Pro tip: Freeze mint leaves in ice cube trays with water for summer cocktails year-round.
2. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Parsley is one of the most shade-tolerant herbs, surviving in as little as 3 hours of indirect light daily. This biennial herb grows slowly but provides harvests for months with proper care.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Slow to medium (ready to harvest in 8-10 weeks)
Mature size: 6-12 inches tall
Best uses: Garnishes, soups, sauces, tabbouleh, pesto
Special care tips:
- Soak parsley seeds overnight before planting to speed germination
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
- Harvest outer stems first to encourage continuous growth
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Overharvesting (never remove more than 1/3 of the plant at once)
- ❌ Letting soil dry out completely
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 6 inches deep
Did you know? Flat-leaf parsley has twice the flavor of curly parsley and is preferred by chefs.
3. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)
Chives are virtually impossible to kill indoors, thriving in low light and forgiving inconsistent care. This perennial herb regrows quickly after harvesting, making it perfect for beginners.
Light requirements: 2-3 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★☆☆☆☆ (easiest)
Growth rate: Fast (ready to harvest in 6-8 weeks)
Mature size: 12-18 inches tall
Best uses: Baked potatoes, eggs, soups, dips, garnishes
Special care tips:
- Chives prefer cooler temperatures (60-70°F)
- Harvest by cutting leaves to 2 inches above soil
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Harvesting too aggressively (never cut below 2 inches)
- ❌ Letting soil dry out completely
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 6 inches deep
Fun fact: Chives are related to onions and garlic but have a mild, fresh flavor that’s perfect for delicate dishes.
4. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm is one of the most forgiving herbs for low-light conditions, with a delightful citrusy scent that repels pests naturally. This perennial herb grows aggressively in indoor conditions.
Light requirements: 2-3 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★☆☆☆☆ (easiest)
Growth rate: Fast (ready to harvest in 5-7 weeks)
Mature size: 12-24 inches tall
Best uses: Tea, cocktails, desserts, aromatherapy, pest repellent
Special care tips:
- Lemon balm grows so well indoors it may need pruning monthly
- Pinch back regularly to prevent flowering (which reduces leaf flavor)
- Prefers slightly cooler temperatures (65-75°F)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Letting it get leggy (regular pruning keeps it bushy)
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 8 inches deep
- ❌ Overwatering (let top inch of soil dry between waterings)
Pro tip: Dry lemon balm leaves in a dehydrator for homemade tea blends.
5. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Oregano is surprisingly adaptable to low-light conditions, though it grows more slowly than in full sun. This perennial herb provides harvests for years with minimal care.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Medium (ready to harvest in 8-10 weeks)
Mature size: 12-18 inches tall
Best uses: Italian dishes, pizza, marinades, roasted vegetables
Special care tips:
- Oregano prefers drier soil conditions than most herbs
- Prune regularly to prevent woody stems
- Can be grown from cuttings easily
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Overwatering (let soil dry completely between waterings)
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 8 inches deep
- ❌ Expecting rapid growth (oregano grows slowly indoors)
Did you know? There are over 60 varieties of oregano, but Greek oregano has the strongest flavor.
6. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme is one of the most drought-tolerant herbs, making it perfect for forgetful gardeners. This perennial herb thrives in low light and provides harvests for years.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Slow (ready to harvest in 10-12 weeks)
Mature size: 6-12 inches tall
Best uses: Roasts, soups, stews, marinades, bread
Special care tips:
- Thyme prefers sandy, well-draining soil
- Water only when soil is completely dry
- Prune regularly to maintain shape
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Overwatering (thyme hates wet feet)
- ❌ Planting in containers without drainage holes
- ❌ Expecting rapid growth
Pro tip: Plant thyme near windows where it can benefit from morning sun even in low-light conditions.
7. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)
Cilantro grows surprisingly well in low light, though it may bolt (go to seed) faster than in full sun. This annual herb provides harvests quickly but may need succession planting.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Fast (ready to harvest in 5-7 weeks)
Mature size: 12-18 inches tall
Best uses: Salsas, tacos, curries, soups, garnishes
Special care tips:
- Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures (60-70°F)
- Harvest outer leaves first to extend growing season
- May need replanting every 4-6 weeks for continuous harvest
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Letting soil dry out completely
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 8 inches deep
- ❌ Expecting long-term growth (cilantro typically lasts 2-3 months indoors)
Fun fact: Cilantro and coriander come from the same plant—cilantro refers to the leaves, coriander to the seeds.
8. Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Dill grows well in low light conditions, though it may not reach the same height as outdoor plants. This annual herb provides harvests quickly and attracts beneficial insects.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Fast (ready to harvest in 6-8 weeks)
Mature size: 18-24 inches tall
Best uses: Pickles, fish dishes, salads, dips, garnishes
Special care tips:
- Dill prefers slightly cooler temperatures (65-75°F)
- Harvest leaves regularly to prevent flowering
- Can be grown from cuttings
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 10 inches deep
- ❌ Overwatering (dill prefers slightly drier conditions)
- ❌ Expecting long-term growth (dill typically lasts 2-3 months indoors)
Pro tip: Plant dill near windows where it can benefit from morning sun even in low-light conditions.
9. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil is the most challenging herb to grow indoors in low light, but certain varieties like ‘Spicy Globe’ or ‘Genovese’ can thrive with proper care. This annual herb grows quickly when given enough light.
Light requirements: 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily (needs 12-14 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★★☆☆ (challenging)
Growth rate: Fast (ready to harvest in 4-6 weeks)
Mature size: 12-24 inches tall
Best uses: Pesto, Italian dishes, salads, sandwiches, garnishes
Special care tips:
- Basil needs consistent warmth (70-80°F)
- Pinch back regularly to encourage bushier growth
- Harvest leaves from the top down
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Letting soil dry out completely
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 8 inches deep
- ❌ Overwatering (basil hates soggy roots)
Did you know? There are over 150 varieties of basil, each with unique flavors and uses.
10. Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Sage grows surprisingly well in low light conditions, though it grows more slowly than in full sun. This perennial herb provides harvests for years with minimal care.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Slow (ready to harvest in 10-12 weeks)
Mature size: 12-18 inches tall
Best uses: Stuffing, poultry dishes, soups, roasts, teas
Special care tips:
- Sage prefers drier soil conditions
- Prune regularly to maintain shape
- Can be grown from cuttings
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Overwatering (sage hates wet feet)
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 8 inches deep
- ❌ Expecting rapid growth
Fun fact: Sage has been used medicinally for thousands of years to treat sore throats and digestive issues.
11. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary grows well in low light conditions, though it may not reach the same height as outdoor plants. This perennial herb provides harvests for years with minimal care.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★★☆☆ (challenging)
Growth rate: Slow (ready to harvest in 12-16 weeks)
Mature size: 18-24 inches tall
Best uses: Roasts, bread, marinades, stews, teas
Special care tips:
- Rosemary prefers drier soil conditions
- Prune regularly to maintain shape
- Can be grown from cuttings
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Overwatering (rosemary hates wet feet)
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 10 inches deep
- ❌ Expecting rapid growth
Pro tip: Plant rosemary near windows where it can benefit from morning sun even in low-light conditions.
12. Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)
Tarragon grows surprisingly well in low light conditions, though it may not reach the same height as outdoor plants. This perennial herb provides harvests for years with minimal care.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Medium (ready to harvest in 8-10 weeks)
Mature size: 12-18 inches tall
Best uses: French dishes, chicken, fish, vinegars, dressings
Special care tips:
- Tarragon prefers slightly cooler temperatures (65-75°F)
- Prune regularly to maintain shape
- Can be grown from cuttings
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Overwatering (tarragon hates wet feet)
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 8 inches deep
- ❌ Expecting rapid growth
Did you know? French tarragon is the most flavorful variety and is essential for béarnaise sauce.
13. Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
Marjoram grows well in low light conditions, though it grows more slowly than in full sun. This perennial herb provides harvests for years with minimal care.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Medium (ready to harvest in 8-10 weeks)
Mature size: 12-18 inches tall
Best uses: Italian dishes, soups, stews, marinades, teas
Special care tips:
- Marjoram prefers slightly drier soil conditions
- Prune regularly to maintain shape
- Can be grown from cuttings
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Overwatering (marjoram hates wet feet)
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 8 inches deep
- ❌ Expecting rapid growth
Fun fact: Marjoram and oregano are related but have distinct flavors—marjoram is sweeter and more delicate.
14. Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
Lovage grows surprisingly well in low light conditions, though it may not reach the same height as outdoor plants. This perennial herb provides harvests for years with minimal care.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Medium (ready to harvest in 10-12 weeks)
Mature size: 24-36 inches tall
Best uses: Soups, stews, stocks, salads, teas
Special care tips:
- Lovage prefers slightly cooler temperatures (60-70°F)
- Prune regularly to maintain shape
- Can be grown from cuttings
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Overwatering (lovage hates wet feet)
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 10 inches deep
- ❌ Expecting rapid growth
Pro tip: Lovage leaves taste like a cross between celery and parsley, making it perfect for soups and stocks.
15. Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)
Stevia grows well in low light conditions, though it grows more slowly than in full sun. This perennial herb provides harvests for years with minimal care and has the added benefit of being naturally sweet.
Light requirements: 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily (can tolerate 8-10 hours under grow lights)
Difficulty level: ★★☆☆☆ (moderate)
Growth rate: Medium (ready to harvest in 10-12 weeks)
Mature size: 12-18 inches tall
Best uses: Natural sweetener, teas, desserts, garnishes
Special care tips:
- Stevia prefers slightly drier soil conditions
- Prune regularly to maintain shape
- Can be grown from cuttings
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Overwatering (stevia hates wet feet)
- ❌ Planting in containers smaller than 8 inches deep
- ❌ Expecting rapid growth
Did you know? Stevia is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar but contains zero calories.
Conclusion
Growing herbs indoors year round is one of the easiest ways to enjoy fresh flavors while adding greenery to your home.
First, indoor herbs thrive in containers and require only moderate care. Even small apartments or kitchens can support a thriving herb garden.
Second, many herbs such as mint, parsley, chives, and lemon balm tolerate low light conditions, making them perfect for indoor growing.
Third, providing proper light, well-drained soil, and consistent watering allows herbs to flourish throughout the year.
With just a few containers and the right herb varieties, you can create a productive kitchen herb garden that supplies fresh ingredients whenever you need them.
Start with a few easy herbs like basil or mint, expand your collection gradually, and enjoy the convenience of harvesting fresh herbs directly from your home.
[…] If you love growing on your porch, you can also grow herbs inside year-round. Check out our guide on the 15 Best Herbs to Grow Indoors Year Round (Even in Low Light). […]