If you are new to growing herbs indoors, the secret to not getting discouraged is starting with plants that forgive mistakes. Some herbs sulk and die the moment the light dips; others shrug it off and keep growing. Begin with the forgiving ones and build confidence first.

The seven that actually thrive - Chives are nearly unkillable. Snip what you need and they regrow. - Mint grows so eagerly it will take over any pot, which is exactly what you want indoors. - Parsley is slow to start but steady and tolerant of average light. - Oregano handles dry indoor air better than most. - Thyme stays compact and likes the same neglectful watering you probably already give it. - Green onions regrow from grocery-store scraps in a glass of water. - Basil makes the list only if you can give it the brightest window you have.

Set them up to succeed Use pots with drainage holes, no exceptions. A herb sitting in soggy soil is a herb on its way out. A south- or west-facing window is ideal; aim for at least six hours of direct light. If your light is weaker, lean on chives, mint, and parsley, which cope better.

Harvest little and often The biggest mindset shift is treating herbs as a crop you pick constantly. Regular snipping signals the plant to grow bushier. Never strip more than a third of a plant at once, and cut just above a leaf pair so it branches out instead of growing leggy.