How to Grow Herbs Indoors Using Artificial Light: A Step-by-Step Guide

Don’t have a sunny balcony or garden space? No problem. With the right LED or fluorescent grow lights, you can successfully grow herbs like basil, mint, thyme, parsley, and oregano indoors—even in winter or small spaces.

Let’s go through everything you need to set up your own productive, space-saving indoor herb garden.

Why Grow Herbs Indoors with Artificial Light?

• Grow year-round, regardless of season

• Ideal for apartments or homes with little natural light

• Better control over temperature and humidity

• Keeps herbs within reach in your kitchen

Best Herbs to Grow Under Lights

• Basil

• Mint

• Thyme

• Parsley

• Cilantro

• Oregano

• Chives

• Dill

These herbs thrive under controlled lighting if their basic needs are met.

Choosing the Right Grow Light

• LED Grow Lights: Energy-efficient, low heat, full spectrum

• Fluorescent Lights (T5 or CFL): Budget-friendly, decent spectrum

• Avoid incandescent bulbs—they’re too hot and not effective

📏 Keep the lights 6–12 inches above the tops of your plants and on for 12–16 hours per day (use a timer for best results).

Setup Tips for Indoor Herb Growing

1. Use well-draining pots with a tray or saucer

2. Use high-quality potting mix (not garden soil)

3. Rotate plants weekly so they grow evenly

4. Don’t overwater—check soil moisture regularly

5. Feed with diluted liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Lights placed too far = leggy, weak plants

• Too much water = root rot

• Not enough airflow = fungal issues

• Skipping fertilization = pale or slow-growing herbs