How to start a herb garden on a windowsill
What to plant first, what kills herbs, and how to harvest so the plant keeps producing.
Sera Mendel
February 24, 2026
The four to start with
Basil: needs warmth and lots of light. Pinches off the top leaves to encourage bushy growth.
Mint: nearly indestructible. Keep it in its own pot — it spreads aggressively.
Chives and parsley: tolerate cooler windows, less fussy about light, last for months.
What you need
South or east-facing window. 6+ hours of direct light per day. Pots with drainage holes — this is the most-skipped requirement.
Use ordinary potting soil, not garden dirt. A small bag of organic potting mix is fine.
How to harvest without killing the plant
Pinch from the top, never the bottom. Top pinches make the plant bushier; bottom pulls weaken the stem.
Take no more than a third of the plant at once. Let it recover before the next big harvest.
People also ask
From seed or seedling?+
Seedlings for beginners — way easier and faster. Seeds for those who want the full experience.
Why is my basil dying?+
Likely overwatering or not enough light. Basil wants soil dry between waterings and 6+ hours of direct sun.
Do herbs come back after winter?+
Indoors, yes — they're usually annuals outdoors but perennials inside. Mint and chives keep going years.