Fresh herbs and vegetables at hand all the time – without the need for a garden, balcony troughs or a whole catalogue of gardening tools? It almost sounds too good to be true, doesn't it? It is. In fact, in a few days you can turn your kitchen into a veritable green laboratory of flavours and aromas, where everything grows – from fragrant basil to tender garlic leaves – with just the help of water, sun and good will.
Herbs and vegetables right in the water? Forget about muddy boots and hours-long trips to garden. Urban living doesn't have to mean giving up nature - it just means transforming it. With a little ingenuity and a lot of charm, you can create your own hydroponic mini garden, which will bring you not only fresh ingredients for cooking, but also satisfaction and – why not – Instagram-worthy momentsReady for a little magic in a glass?
6 x herbs and vegetables that grow great in water - without soil
Rosemary – the king of aromas that thrives even on the shelf above the sink
Rosemary is one of those plants that combines utility with aesthetics. Not only is it useful in the kitchen, where a few leaves can elevate a roast or fries to the heights of culinary delight, but it is also incredibly grateful for hydroponic growing. Cut off a few healthy branches, remove the lower leaves and place them in a glass of water in a bright place. After a few days you will notice the first roots starting to form. And when there are enough of them, you can leave it in the water or plant it in the ground – if you are seriously ambitious about gardening.
Onions – a humble but reliable roommate for always fresh green shoots
If you've ever forgotten an onion in the pantry, you know how quickly it sprouts green tops. Instead of feeling guilty about it, take advantage of its natural enthusiasm for growth. Simply cut off the top of the onion or use the whole bulb., place it in a shallow dish of water (so that the bottom is in contact with it) and leave it in a bright place. Every day it will grow taller, greener and more useful. These sprouts are great for sauces, salads and soups – and some say they have a more delicate, slightly sweeter taste than regular spring onions.
Mint – a hyperactive plant that only needs a glass and a little sun
The goal is almost too simple. Place a few sprigs in water, remove the lower leaves, and within a few days, it will start to sprout new roots. In addition to being versatile – useful for teas, cocktails, syrups, refreshing baths and even homemade cosmetics – it also visually adds a sense of freshness to the kitchen. Its hardiness makes it a great choice for beginners and forgetful people. If you can hold out long enough, you can also propagate it and give it to friends – or simply enjoy more mojitos without a guilty conscience.
Basil – the tall lady of herbs who loves admiration (and fresh water)
Not every plant is as temperamental as basil. It needs light, fresh water and a little more gentleness, but the result? Absolutely beautiful. Cut a few sprigs just below the leaves, remove the lower leaves and place the stems in a glass of water. Within a few days, roots will begin to form that are strong enough to sustain the basil for weeks – as long as you remember to change the water every day. The smell that will fill your kitchen will teleport you straight to sunny Italy. Another advantage? Fresh basil leaves in a salad or on a pizza are more convincing than any gourmet sauce.
Garlic – the secret weapon of every mini garden
Surprising but true: garlic can be grown in water. Take a clove, remove the papery skin and place it in a jar with the bottom in the water. It will start to sprout green leaves, which you can use as a gentle alternative to classic garlic - less intense, but still full of character. They are also ideal for quickly adding variety to pasta, risotto or omelets. And because garlic doesn't like competition, you can let it grow on its own - like a true herbal hermit.
Spinach – the silent winner of the green experiment
When it comes to perseverance and reward, celery has no competition. Simply cut off the bottom (about a 2-inch-high “base”), place it in a container of water, and watch it. Every day, you’ll notice little leaves sprouting from the center. Give it a few days, and it’ll redeem itself with refreshing, crunchy sprouts that are perfect for smoothies, soups, or as a healthy afternoon snack. And bonus: it thrives in low light conditions, meaning it doesn’t need a windowsill with a view.
What do you need to make herbs and vegetables thrive?
Ingridients:
- Fresh twigs or plant parts (following instructions above)
- Glass jars or small containers
- Clean water
- Sunlight (or good indoor lighting)
Preparation process:
- Prepare the plants – remove the lower leaves, cut the branches diagonally.
- Fill the jars with water to a level that covers the bottom of the plant.
- Place in a bright spot, but not in direct midday sun.
- Change the water every 2–3 days, and for some (basil!) even every day.
- Watch the growth and brag on social media if necessary. #zelenilevinje
Conclusion: a garden without a garden is more than just a fad
Herbs and vegetables in water are not only saving trick or a whim of urban life – it’s a way to reconnect with nature in a world where every minute is precious. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying to simply reach out and pluck a fresh basil leaf or a sprig of mint while you’re cooking – without leaving the kitchen.
So, forget about excuses. Mini hydroponic garden It's simple, aesthetic, and incredibly useful. Let your kitchen counter become a new kind of first nature - where flavors, smells, and the feeling of being able to do more than you thought thrive.
