When you first start indoor gardening, seeing something sprout quickly can feel magical — especially if you’re doing it with kids. The excitement of a tiny green shoot encourages you to keep going. That’s why many beginners look for the easiest and fastest plants to grow indoors, so results come fast and everyone stays motivated.
Whether you’re teaching a child the joy of nature or just want to get your own garden going without a long wait, the right plant choice makes all the difference. Let’s explore the best options and how to get them thriving quickly.
Why choose fast-growing, easy plants?
Seeing results early keeps motivation high. Quick-germinating herbs and greens build confidence, help you understand plant care faster, and give you that “I grew something!” feeling within days. Extension resources often recommend leafy greens and basic herbs as starter plants because they respond well to indoor conditions.
Top easiest and fastest plants to grow indoors
- Cress – Germinates in 2–3 days; harvestable in about a week. Excellent microgreen or garnish.
- Radish greens – The root takes longer, but the greens sprout fast and can be harvested in 10–14 days.
- Lettuce (baby leaves) – Thrives indoors; baby leaves are ready in 2–3 weeks.
- Basil – Sprouts in 5–7 days and gives ongoing harvests with good light and water.
- Spinach – Germinates quickly; baby leaves ready in a few weeks.
- Chives – Resilient, low-maintenance, and can be cut repeatedly.
Best pick for beginners
If speed is your priority, cress is a clear winner — almost foolproof, very fast, minimal care. But if you want flavor + longevity, basil and baby lettuce balance both speed and utility.
How to grow these indoors easily
No big space or experience needed — just these steps:
- Use a Smart Gardens system for automatic lighting and watering.
- Start with fresh Herb Seeds for reliable germination.
- Choose stylish and functional Planters to suit your space.
Tips & tricks for faster growth
- Harvest baby leaves early to encourage continuous growth.
- Place the plants near bright light or use grow LEDs for consistency.
- Keep the growing medium evenly moist — not soggy, not dry.
- Rotate plants occasionally so all sides get light.
Conclusion
The fastest indoor plants are cress, radish greens, lettuce, basil, spinach, and chives. For instant results, start with cress. For ongoing use, try basil or baby lettuce. Once you taste success, you’ll be eager to expand your indoor garden!
Want to dive deeper? Check out What indoor plant has the most benefits?. Ready to start growing? Browse our Smart Gardens, Herb Seeds, and Planters.
