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8 herbs that grow better in water than in soil: completely dirt-free – just water, light and goodwill

8 zelišč
Photo: Jan Macarol / Ai Art

If the word “garden” makes you feel panicked about pots bursting at the seams, plants limping in the drought, and soil spilling all over the floor like a poorly thought-out smoothie – we have a solution for you. Urban Garden, version 2.0 – no soil, no complications, no boots. Just water, sun, and a few twigs that can’t wait to turn into your own mini herb oasis in the middle of your kitchen. 8 Herbs That Grow Better in Water Than in Soil!

Forget about muddy feats – we're talking about hydroponic herbs, where plants grow right in a glass of water. It's minimalist botany with maximum effect: your kitchen gets a green upgrade, and you feel like you're somewhere between an urban farmer and an herbal guru. So – 8 herbs that grow better in water than in soil!

1. Mint – freshness that never goes out of style

Photo: Jan Macarol / Ai Art

Mint has a Hollywood feel to it – always fresh, always ready for a close-up. When you put it in a glass of water, you can almost hear the soundtrack from a toothpaste commercial.

Usage: Mojito, iced tea, yogurt dressing with cucumber or watermelon with mint and feta – refresh the day, the meal and the brain. The most important on the list – 8 herbs.

2. Parsley – the hidden ace in your kitchen

Photo: Jan Macarol / Ai Art

An everyday hero who rarely gets the lead role. But parsley in water? That's his renaissance. Just a twig, a glass, and light – and voilà.

Usage: Soups, pasta, chimichurri, garlic butter. Tabbouleh! Parsley loves attention, but it will never let you know it.

3. Rosemary – an aromatic diva with a multi-purpose talent

Photo: Jan Macarol / Ai Art

Rosemary is a bit like an artist with a big ego – it needs a lot of light, but once it starts, it shines. It takes a while to take root, but once it goes… it goes.

Usage: Meat, potatoes, bread, teas. And if you throw it in olive oil? Instant Mediterranean luxury. Must-haves on the list – 8 herbs.

4. Oregano – Italian love in a jar

Photo: Jan Macarol / Ai Art

Oregano is like that Italian lover from a romantic comedy – aromatic, temperamental, and best on hot pizza. It doesn't mind being in water, just give it some sun.

Usage: Tomato dishes, sauces, salads, baked potatoes. And yes, it works like magic on baked zucchini too.

5. Spring onions – instant success for lazy geniuses

Photo: Jan Macarol / Ai Art

If plants were YouTubers, spring onions would be a viral sensation. You just cut them, put them in a jar – and boom, they grow like water (literally).

Usage: Ramen, soups, eggs, salads, sauces. And bonus: cutting spring onions won't make your eyes water like their grown cousins. Must-haves on the list – 8 herbs.

6. Thyme – small but mighty herb

Photo: Jan Macarol / Ai Art

Thyme is the quiet but charismatic character in the series who ultimately steals the show. It grows steadily in water if you don't neglect it.

Usage: Mushrooms, fish, lemon butter, stews. And cocktail syrup? Oh yeah, he knows that too.

7. Basil – the sunny queen of every kitchen

Photo: Jan Macarol / Ai Art

Basil is not an herb, it is aura. It thrives in water if you give it enough sun and fresh water. It's not demanding, it just - loves it.

Usage: Pesto, Caprese, pasta, bruschetta. Into lemonade? Why not, life is too short for boring drinks.

8. Sage – the aromatic Zen master

Photo: Jan Macarol / Ai Art

Often overlooked, sage thrives in water like a true yogi: calm, slow, with an herbal depth that any sommelier would appreciate. After a few days in water, it develops roots and becomes a stylish addition to your kitchen.

Usage: Butter with sage and pumpkin gnocchi – this is the level. It's also great with roasted meat or in a cough tea. Plus: it banishes bad energy (and bad taste).


Tricks for success: how to grow an herb jungle in a jar

  • Change the water every 2–3 days. No, your plant doesn't need a spa treatment, but fresh water prevents rotting.
  • Use filtered or boiled water. Chlorine in the water? Meh. Plants aren't exactly fanciful.
  • Place in a bright spot – out of direct midday sun. Sun yes, burning no.
  • Add a little liquid fertilizer once every two weeks. If your mint seems stagnant, it may be lacking in vitamins.
  • Don't overdo it with the amount of herbs in one glass. Crowds are not cool – neither in the club nor in the water.

And now? Start – today.

All you need is a couple of empty jars (the ones you've been saving "just in case"), a few fresh sprigs, and a window seat. And bonus: the next time you serve homemade pesto, yours basil or tea from yours sage, you'll sound like an herbal goddess. Green thumb or not – anyone can do this.

And if someone tells you you don't have a garden? Just show them your kitchen counter.


If you want, I can add an infographic with the most common mistakes when growing herbs in water or a suggestion for an Insta-friendly "herb corner". Would that be useful to you?

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