What's the easiest herb for beginners?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Growing herbs indoors is simple when you take the easy route with chives. This easy-to-grow allium is as tough as the breed of allium they are. Chives can flourish in the worst of conditions. You can miss a watering, and it will survive in the dimmest of apartments - like mine. Even a black thumb like me can at least grow chives.
Light Flexibility
- Grow in north-facing windows or under weak LEDs
- Tolerate 4 hours of daily light
- Avoid direct midday sun to prevent scorching
Soil Simplicity
- Flourish in basic potting mix
- Add perlite only if reusing old soil
- No fertilizer needed for first 6 months
Regrowth Magic
- Harvest 2-inch stems weekly
- New shoots emerge within 3 days
- Divide clumps annually for endless supply
Chives are more accommodating than these more finicky herbs during trips or changes in schedule. I left mine for 12 days unattended with only slight yellowing, and after I watered, they all perked up. The hollow stems of chives hold moisture for times in dry conditions, making for built-in survival tanks.
Overwatering Fix
- Let soil dry completely between waterings
- Add sand to improve drainage
- Trim mushy roots and repot
Low Light Solutions
- Use $15 LED desk lamps as supplemental light
- Rotate pots 90° daily
- Wipe dust off leaves monthly
Start with chives to build confidence then branch out with *parsley* or *thyme*. A little success builds your confidence and you will quickly want more and more varieties of herbs. Once you snip fresh chives over a baked potato or slice over eggs, you will understand why they are the ultimate gateway herb.
Read the full article: Growing Herbs Indoors: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide
