If you're one of those who, when you hear the word "garden," thinks of muddy fingers, cracked pots, and traumatic experiences watering plants that then died anyway—we've got something for you. There's an easier way to grow your own fresh herbs. And no, you don't need a garden. Not even pots. All you need is water, a jar, and an herb that's ready to take on a new life—right on your kitchen counter.
Welcome to the world of “water herbs”, where plants grow in water without soil, and you become urban gardener with minimal effort and maximum effect. Not only for the aesthetic moment (although it is totally Instagram-worthy), but also because you always have fresh herbs on hand – for tea, salad, pasta or just to impress. Let's take a look at seven herbs that love H₂O so much so that they will grow without a single grain of soil.
1. Mint – freshness that never goes out of style
Mint is an herb that has refreshment in its DNA. Not only does it look great in a glass of water (just like you), it's also incredibly easy to grow. All it needs is a bright spot and a glass of water to which you add a fresh sprig (preferably with a few leaves).
Usage: Mint is indispensable in summer cocktails (mojito, gin and tonic), it goes great in iced tea, lemonade, as well as in salads with watermelon or sheep cheese. Try it in a yogurt dressing for cucumber salad - you'll thank yourself.
2. Parsley – the hidden ace in your kitchen
Parsley is one of those plants that we all know but often underestimate. It's found in almost every kitchen, but it grows even easier in water than in soil - no complications, no special requirements. Just cut a sprig, dip it in water and place it in the light.
Usage: Parsley works great in almost any savory dish—from classic beef stew to pasta and baked potatoes to tabbouleh (a Lebanese salad where it's the star ingredient). Add it to garlic butter or chimichurri sauce for a great herbal kick.
3. Rosemary – an aromatic diva with a multi-purpose talent
Rosemary is a little more picky than the rest, but if you give it enough light (and respect), it will be your most loyal kitchen ally. Once you put it in a jar of water, wait a few days – roots will appear slowly but steadily.
Usage: Rosemary elevates roasted meats – especially chicken, pork and lamb. It’s a great companion to potatoes (especially those roasted with olive oil) and also goes great on focaccia or homemade bread. For the adventurous: make some rosemary tea – your digestion and memory will be delighted.
4. Oregano – Italian love in a jar
If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, oregano is a must-have. This plant loves light and water, making it ideal for your windowsill. In a matter of days, you'll have a lush, aromatic bouquet.
Usage: Oregano is a must-have ingredient for pizzas, pasta sauces, tomato dishes, and salads (like the classic Greek one). It's also great on baked potatoes or in marinades for grilled meats and vegetables.
5. Spring onions – instant success for lazy geniuses
Spring onions are so easy to grow that it's almost unfair. Just put the white part (with the root!) in a glass of water, place it on a windowsill - and within a few days you'll see new growth. You'll instantly become your own supplier of "toppings" for every dish.
Usage: Spring onions add variety to eggs in a hundred ways, they are great in ramen, Asian salads, as a sprinkle on soups or in fresh sauces (e.g. sour cream with lime and green onions - an insanely good combination).
6. Thyme – small but herbally mighty
Thyme is patient and discreet, but once it starts growing, it's a real aromatic bomb. Give it time in the water and some sun, and it'll thank you with its earthy, slightly citrusy note.
Usage: Great in soups, stews, roasts and sauces. It pairs very well with mushrooms, lemon and even butter, which you can use on bread or for baking fish. Plus point: you can make a great homemade syrup for cocktails with it!
7. Basil – the sunny queen of every kitchen
Basil loves the sun and your attention. In return, it gives you one of the most intoxicating scents there is. It thrives very well in water, especially if you change its water every few days and occasionally “tickle” it with sunlight.
Usage: Perfect for tomato salads (Caprese), homemade pesto, pasta, bruschetta and even in lemonades or cocktails. Basil is the star of any Mediterranean dish you want to elevate from “okay, this is good” to “wow, did you really make that yourself?”
And now? Start – today.
All you need are a few jars (read: an excuse to go to the market or a drawer full of jars to preserve), water (filtered or boiled), a little light, and a lot of good will. Change the water every few days and watch nature perform a little magic in your kitchen.
The best part? When you serve your guests homemade pesto or a fresh salad with “your” herbs, you’ll get exactly that satisfied smile of a confident urban gardener. And maybe a few questions for your next Insta post.
