From tulsi to methi: 8 must-have herbs for your kitchen garden
Fresh herbs not only add bursts of flavor to your meals but also offer health benefits and natural aroma to your space. The best part? Many herbs are incredibly easy to grow right at home—even in small balconies or kitchen window sills. Here's a guide to 8 versatile herbs that thrive in Indian homes and how to care for them.advertisement1. BASIL (TULSI)A staple in both Italian and Indian cuisine, basil is one of the most popular herbs to grow at home. In India, holy basil or Tulsi is also revered for its medicinal and spiritual value.How to growRequires 4–6 hours of sunlightWater regularly but avoid overwateringPinch off flower buds to encourage leaf growthUsesPerfect for pastas, herbal teas, soups, and Ayurvedic remedies.2. MINT (PUDINA)Cool and refreshing, mint is a fast-growing herb that can spread quickly if not contained. It's perfect for chutneys, teas, and summer drinks.How to growBest in partial sunlightKeep soil moistUse containers to control spreadUsesIdeal for mojitos, raitas, chaats, and digestive teas.3. CORIANDER (DHANIYA)No Indian kitchen is complete without coriander. It grows fast and yields both flavorful leaves and seeds.advertisementHow to growGrows well in moderate sunlightNeeds well-drained soilSow seeds directly into the potUsesGarnish curries, make chutneys, and enhance dals.4. CURRY LEAVES (KADIPATTA)A South Indian essential, curry leaves add depth and aroma to any tempering. The plant is low-maintenance and grows into a small tree over time.How to growNeeds full sunlightWater when soil is dryGrows best in large potsUsesGreat for tadkas, rasam, sambhar, and even hair oil preparations.5. THYMEThyme is a hardy herb used extensively in Western cooking. It has a subtle, earthy flavor and grows well in containers.How to growPrefers full sunMinimal watering requiredPrune regularly to keep it bushyUsesAdd to roasts, soups, and infused oils.6. OREGANOOregano thrives in Indian climates and is a favourite for pizza and pasta lovers. It's aromatic and easy to grow.How to growNeeds bright sunlightWater only when soil driesHarvest by snipping sprigsUsesPerfect for Italian dishes, seasoning, and herb mixes.7. PARSLEYParsley is a nutritious herb rich in iron and vitamins. It's often used as garnish but also adds flavor to salads and dips.How to growRequires partial to full sunlightadvertisementKeep soil slightly moistGrows well in deep potsUsesIdeal for hummus, tabbouleh, and pasta sauces.8. FENUGREEK (METHI)Methi leaves are rich in iron and antioxidants. They're commonly used in Indian cooking and are very easy to grow from seeds.How to growNeeds moderate sunlightWater regularlyGrows from soaked methi seeds in 5–7 daysUsesUse in parathas, curries, and as microgreens.TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL KITCHEN HERB GARDENUse organic, well-draining soil and compost.Harvest leaves regularly to encourage growth.Avoid overcrowding pots—give each plant space to breathe.Use neem spray to keep pests away naturally.Label your pots if growing multiple herbs together.Growing your own herbs is a simple way to step into sustainable living. Not only do they reduce your dependency on store-bought greens, but they also infuse your food with unbeatable freshness, aroma, and nutrition—all from the comfort of your home.- Ends
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