Windowsill Gardening: What Actually Works
Windowsill gardening works for herbs, lettuce, and radishes. It doesn’t work for tomatoes or peppers without a grow light. South windows are best.
Most windowsills are dimmer than they look. Test yours before planting.
What Works
| Plant | Works? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basil | Yes | South window |
| Parsley | Yes | Any window |
| Chives | Yes | Any window |
| Mint | Yes | Any window |
| Lettuce | Yes | Loose-leaf |
| Radish | Yes | 6-inch pot |
| Spinach | Yes | Cool window |
| Tomato | No | Needs grow light |
| Pepper | No | Needs grow light |
Test Your Window
- Pick a clear day.
- Note when sun first hits.
- Note when it leaves.
- That’s your direct sun hours.
Setup
- Pots: 6-inch with drainage
- Soil: Potting mix
- Water: When top inch is dry
- Rotate: 1/4 turn daily
Common Questions
How do I know if my window is bright enough? If you can read a book without a light at noon, it’s bright enough for herbs.
North window? Mint and parsley only. Or grow light.
East window? Good morning light. Herbs do well.
West window? Hot afternoon sun. Lettuce may bolt.
South window? Best. Everything works.
Can I grow tomatoes on a windowsill? Only with a grow light.