Many herbs, including common culinary herbs such as basil and oregano, can be grown on a kitchen windowsill, as long as you have about “four to six hours of sunlight,” said Christy Wilhelmi, author of “Gardening for Geeks.”
Wilhelmi recommends annuals such as parsley, cilantro and basil, which grow well in a sunny window. Chives, thyme, tarragon, mint and other perennials will work if they have enough room to grow.
“I always recommend forgoing the cute tiny pots for something more substantial,” she said. Wilhemi prefers pots that are at least 8 inches in diameter for annuals and larger for perennials.
Although south-facing windows are best for growing herbs indoors, you can use fluorescent grow lights or LED lights for 14 to 16 hours a day.
The University of California Cooperative Extension recommends the following herbs for indoor gardens:
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Lisa Boone is a features writer for the Los Angeles Times. Since 2003, she has covered home design, gardening, parenting, houseplants, even youth sports. She is a native of Los Angeles.