Last updated on October 23rd, 2023 at 08:57 pm
Herbs for cooking we all need, but store-bought basil quickly shrinks. Growing herbs yourself in water is a simple method for fresh greens.
We are all familiar with herbs in pots, which are usually available in supermarkets. But the chances of success are low in the long run, especially basil unfortunately shrinks quickly. Instead, herb fans can try hydroponics, i.e. growing herbs in a container with water.
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Grow herbs in water: How hydroponics works
If even the best tip didn’t stop the basil from dying, it’s time for new growing. Water, for example, is a good way to do this, as it means herb fans don’t have to rely on summer and can grow fresh herbs all year round. Even though many herbs are hardy, this saves plant fans the trip to the cold garden.
For example, you can grow the following herbs in water:
- Basil
- Lemon balm
- Sage
- Mint
- Oregano
- Rosemary
- Stevia
- Tarragon
- Thyme
All that is needed are cuttings, a container with water and some fertilizer.
And this is how you proceed to grow herbs in water:
First cut cuttings of the plants, at least ten centimeters are suitable. Cut off in this case under a node of leaves.
Remove the leaves (or needles) of the cuttings at the bottom, only at the top they are retained
Some varieties, such as basil, should be cut before they flower
Similar to regrowing vegetables, the cuttings are now placed in a container with water, ideally allowed to stand for a day
The container can be transparent, but dark tinted jars are more similar to below ground conditions
Make sure the openings are narrow, and the herbs should stand as upright as possible
Liquid fertilizer works well, as the plants need nutrients
Place the jars by the window, most herbs like it rather warm and bright, but it depends on the individual plant
Change the water regularly
Herbs like Rosmasin, which have wooden stems, take a little longer to form roots. However, patience will be rewarded even in this case.