How long herbs take to grow depends on the growing method and the type of herb. In general, herbs grow faster in hydroponic systems than in soil pots because water, nutrients, and oxygen are delivered more efficiently to the roots.

Below is a general comparison, ordered from fastest to slowest, based on typical indoor conditions.

Fast-growing herbs (quick harvest)

Mint

• Hydroponics: ~2–3 weeks
• Pots (soil): ~3–4 weeks
  Mint grows very quickly and regrows fast after cutting.

Basil

• Hydroponics: ~2–3 weeks
• Pots (soil): ~3–5 weeks
  Basil responds especially well to hydroponics and frequent harvesting.

Chives

• Hydroponics: ~2–3 weeks
• Pots (soil): ~3–4 weeks
  Chives grow steadily and tolerate indoor conditions well.

Medium-speed herbs

Parsley

• Hydroponics: ~3–4 weeks
• Pots (soil): ~4–6 weeks
  Parsley starts slowly but then produces leaves continuously.

Cilantro

• Hydroponics: ~3–4 weeks
• Pots (soil): ~4–5 weeks
  Cilantro grows quickly at first but has a short life cycle.

Slow-growing herbs

Oregano

• Hydroponics: ~4–6 weeks
• Pots (soil): ~5–7 weeks
  Oregano grows slowly but becomes more productive over time.

Thyme

• Hydroponics: ~4–6 weeks
• Pots (soil): ~6–8 weeks
  Thyme grows slowly and needs patience indoors.

Rosemary

• Hydroponics: slow and challenging
• Pots (soil): ~6–10+ weeks
  Rosemary is one of the slowest indoor herbs and takes time to establish.

Why hydroponics is usually faster

In hydroponic systems, herbs grow faster because:

• Roots receive constant access to water and nutrients
• Oxygen levels around roots are higher
• Plants spend less energy searching for resources

In pots, growth is still reliable but usually slower due to soil resistance and nutrient variability.