Growing herbs indoors transforms everyday cooking. The single most important factor for success is lighting.
## Why Light Matters
Herbs need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight equivalent per day. Most apartment windows don't provide enough intensity, especially in winter.
## Choosing the Right LED
### Full Spectrum vs. Red/Blue
- **Full spectrum (white LEDs)**: Best for herbs, looks natural
- **Red/Blue (blurple)**: More efficient but unpleasant to live with
- **Recommendation**: Full spectrum for any living space
### Wattage Guide
| Grow Area | Wattage | Coverage |
|-----------|---------|----------|
| Small (4-6 pots) | 20-30W | 12x12 inches |
| Medium (2 shelves) | 45-60W | 24x12 inches |
| Large (shelving unit) | 75-100W | 36x18 inches |
### Key Specs
- **PPFD**: 200-400 umol/m2/s at canopy
- **Color temp**: 4000-6500K
- **CRI**: 80+ for natural colors
- **Dimmable**: Useful as plants grow
## Light Placement
- 6-12 inches above canopy
- Too close: leaf burn
- Too far: leggy growth
## Timer Setup
- Basil, parsley, cilantro: 14-16 hours on
- Rosemary, thyme, oregano: 12-14 hours
- Mint: 12-14 hours
## Best Herbs for Indoor LED
### Easy
- **Basil**: Fast-growing, pinch tops regularly
- **Mint**: Nearly indestructible
- **Chives**: Tolerates lower light
### Moderate
- **Cilantro**: Bolts in heat, keep cool
- **Parsley**: Slow to germinate but long-lasting
### Challenging
- **Rosemary**: Excellent drainage essential
- **Thyme**: Prefers dry conditions
## Complete Setup
1. LED grow light panel ($30-60)
2. Wire shelving or wall bracket
3. 4-6 pots with drainage
4. Quality potting mix
5. Outlet timer ($10)
6. Drip tray
## Watering
- Water when top inch is dry
- Water from below to avoid fungal issues
- Never let herbs sit in standing water
## Troubleshooting
- Leggy stems: not enough light -> lower light or increase hours
- Brown tips: overwatering or low humidity
- Yellow leaves: nitrogen deficiency
- Slow growth: too cold (need 65-75F)
