But did you know there’s more to basil than just the classic Genovese variety that stars in your pasta sauce? Yep, this herb comes in a smorgasbord of types, each with its own unique flavor, aroma, and use.

Let’s see all the different kinds of basil you can grow and cook with.

Sweet Basil: The Popular Kid

First up, we have Sweet Basil, the variety you’re most likely to encounter in your kitchen adventures. It’s the poster child for basil, with its large, green leaves and that classic, slightly sweet flavor.

Sweet Basil is like that one friend who gets along with everyone and is invited to every party. It’s versatile, great in sauces, salads, and as a garnish. If you’re making pesto, Sweet Basil is your go-to.

Thai Basil: The Exotic Twist

Next on our list is Thai Basil, which brings a bit of an exotic twist to the basil family. With its smaller, pointier leaves and a hint of licorice flavor, Thai Basil is the star in many Asian dishes. Think Thai curries, Vietnamese pho, and stir-fries.

It’s a bit sturdier when it comes to cooking, so it can stand up to heat better than its sweet cousin. If you’re looking to add a pop of color and a unique flavor to your dishes, Thai Basil has got your back.

Purple Basil: The Glamorous One

Now, let’s talk about Purple Basil, the glamorous sibling in the basil family. With its striking dark purple leaves and a slightly spicier flavor, Purple Basil is not just about looks.

It can add depth to salads, make a stunning garnish, and even work its magic in cocktails. If you’re looking to impress at your next dinner party, Purple Basil will help you dress your dishes to the nines.

Lemon Basil: The Zesty Sidekick

Lemon Basil, as you might guess from the name, brings a zesty, citrusy twist to the basil lineup. With its light green leaves and lemony scent, it’s perfect for adding a fresh, tangy flavor to salads, fish dishes, and even desserts.

If you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing, Lemon Basil is your zesty sidekick, ready to brighten up your culinary creations.

Holy Basil: The Sacred Herb

Last but not least, we have Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi. This variety holds a special place in Hindu culture and is considered sacred. Holy Basil has a slightly spicy, peppery flavor, making it more than just a culinary herb—it’s also revered for its medicinal properties.

While you might not find it in your everyday pesto, it’s a staple in Ayurvedic medicine and herbal teas.

And Many More…

The world of basil is vast and varied, with each type bringing its own unique personality to the table. From the classic Sweet Basil to the exotic Thai Basil, the glamorous Purple Basil, the zesty Lemon Basil, and the sacred Holy Basil, there’s a basil for every mood and dish.

So next time you’re in the garden or the grocery store, why not pick up a variety you haven’t tried before? Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite.

1. Basil
2. Chervil
3. Chives
4. Cilantro
5. Dill
6. Oregano
7. Parsley
8. Rosemary
9. Sage
10. Thyme

Growing herbs inside will change the way you cook; you just can’t beat fresh ingredients. Start by choosing a few herbs you know you will use most in your cooking, teas, or aromatherapy. 

For me, that is Basil, Oregano, Rosemary, Sage, and Thyme. All of these herbs are easy to start from seed or by purchasing small plants from your local nursery. 

Indoor herb garden light and water requirements

Below is a chart to help you determine which herbs are best suited for your indoor environment. Knowing how much light and water they need will help you grow big and strong herbs. 

How do you keep herbs alive indoors?

Now you know the best herbs to grow at home, here are the best tips I have for you to keep your herbs happy and healthy:

Find the sun – a south-facing window is best. Most herbs require 4-8 hours of sun a day. But not all of us are blessed with a sunny window. If you don’t have a sun-filled room, then find a grow light to help.

Good drainage – the adorable Pinterest mason jar photos are hard to resist. But your herbs need a pot with drain holes. 

Soil matters – what your herbs grow in is just as important as the seeds you start with. Try to find organic potting soil that is rich in nutrients. I found this soil works best with my indoor herb pots. 

Water sparingly – all plants need water. But overwatering can cause an array of issues including root rot, mold, and other diseases. Some herbs like to always be moist, while others like to dry out before getting a good soak. Make sure to research each herb’s water needs. 

What herbs can grow indoors without sunlight?

Growing herbs indoors without sunlight is difficult. While no plant can survive without any sunlight, there are a handful of herbs that can grow in a low-light indoor environment. Here are the top four herbs that can grow with indirect sun:

1. Mint
2. Chives
3. Parsley
4. Tarragon

If want to grow herbs inside without any sunlight, then you will need to purchase a grow light. This will enable your herbs to grow indoors year-round.

Conclusion

Now you know which herbs are best for growing inside, what are you waiting for? Pick up some organic herb seeds or small starter plants today and start your herb garden.

If you are just getting started make sure to read these articles next:

• How to start an indoor herb garden [easy 1-2-3]
• 5 Best indoor herb gardens

You have so many herb gardening questions, and we have all the answers to get you started today!

1. Decide where your herb garden will grow.
2. Choose what herbs you want to grow. 
3. Buy your herb plants or seeds.
4. Plant your herbs.
5. Grow your herbs.
6. Harvest your herbs.

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Starting your indoor herb garden (easy step-by-step instructions)

What is the best location for your new indoor herb garden?

Herbs do best with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. You need to find an area in your home that gets plenty of sun… usually a south-facing window. If you don’t get any direct sunlight, then you will need to consider purchasing a grow light. 

A windowsill, table, or bookshelf are all great options to place your herb plants. 

Keep your herbs away from drafts, most enjoy room temperature between 60°-75°

Make sure to choose an area you won’t forget about them… your herbs will require care every few days. 

Which herbs grow best indoors?

Decide what type of herbs will grow best in your home and which herbs you will use. Here are the most common herbs that do well indoors:

1. Basil
2. Chives
3. Cilantro
4. Dill
5. Mint
6. Parsley
7. Rosemary
8. Sage
9. Thyme

Think about how you will use the herbs. What herbs do you cook with? Will you use your herbs for medicinable purposes?

You can buy your herbs as plants or seeds, depending on your area and season. I recommend buying organic whenever possible. 

There are also many indoor herb garden kits to make it even easier to get started!

Planting your indoor herb garden

Decide if you want to start with planting seeds, established plants, or a herb garden kit such as the AeroGarden.

Starting from seed

If starting from seed you will want to plant the seeds according to the seed packet instructions, every herb is unique. Some seeds require soaking to help with germination. 

A great money-saving tip is to use a cardboard egg carton for your seeds until they start to sprout. Then you can transfer them to a pot that has good drainage. 

It’s best to keep different herbs in separate pots since each one may require a different root space and watering schedule. 

Having the right soil is very important too! Use a potting mix that is meant for indoor herbs gardening. The potting mix is light and best for the drainage the herbs need to grow. 

Make sure to label your seed pots! It’s easy to forget which pot has which herb. You can do this with a simple popsicle stick or get fancy with these plant markers.

Starting from an established plant

If you purchase an established plant then make sure the pot has good drainage and is large enough so the herb does not get root rot. 

Most herbs can grow in a 6” pot, again, always have holes for good drainage. Research each herb to find what type of pot works best. Some herbs have different needs.

Starting with a herb garden kit

There are so many great herb garden kits to choose from. From the popular AeroGarden to a small starter kit…. Choose what works best with your budget and space. 

If you purchase a kit, then it’s best to follow the instructions that come in the kit. 

I will be reviewing different herb garden kits in the near future!

Water and feed your indoor herb garden

Tending to your herb garden will help it grow big and strong and allow you to enjoy the fruits of your labor… literally. 

As with any plant, your herbs will need water and sun. 

Some herbs will require misting a few times a week and others a deep watering only when the soil dries out. Do not allow the soil to completely dry out, you know it’s time to water when about ¼ of the soil is dry.

You can also purchase a soil moisture meter to help you know when it’s time to water.

Feeding your herbs will help them grow more robust. Use a seaweed and/or fish-based fertilizer. During the summer you can fertilize once a week. During the winter fertilize once a month. Best to follow the instructions on the exact fertilizer you purchase.

Harvest your indoor herb garden

And the time you’ve been waiting for… enjoy those delicious herbs. Start using them in your cooking, teas, and medicinal applications. It’s as easy as cutting the tops of leaves and enjoy knowing you grew them!

You can enjoy your herbs fresh, dry them out, or share them with friends and family!

Frequently asked questions

Can herbs grow indoors?

Yes, of course, you can grow herbs inside! 

When should I start my herbs indoors?

Now! Why wait? Start your herbs inside today and enjoy.

Now if you are planning on transplanting your seedlings to your outdoor herb garden, then it’s recommended to start your seeds about 6-8 before the last frost date. Of course, this timeframe will differ depending on your planting zone.

Can herbs be frozen?

Yes! Freezing herbs is a great way to preserve the herbs you can use right away. Simply rinse and let them dry on a paper towel. Once completely dry, place them in a Ziplock bag and freeze. Don’t forget to label your baggies!

Another great idea is to blend them in a small amount of oil of your choice. Pour into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen put the cubes in a Ziplock bag and keep them in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Where can I buy herbs in the winter?

You can find seeds online all year long. Occasionally your local nursery will have live herb plants in the winter. 

Check your grocery store, most will have live herb plants. You will most likely need to transplant them into a larger pot. Some people have better luck than others with grocery store herb plants.

The best option really is seeds or starting with a herb garden kit.