You don’t need a big garden, fancy tools, or even soil to start growing food at home. In fact, your next harvest might already be hiding in your kitchen scraps. With just a bit of water and a sunny windowsill, you can regrow fruits and vegetables from what you normally toss—saving money and reducing waste in the process.
From scallions and lettuce to pineapple tops and sweet potato ends, many common foods are surprisingly easy to bring back to life. All it takes is a simple jar, cup, or shallow dish, and a few minutes of attention each day. These regrown plants not only look beautiful on a shelf—they often produce edible results in just a few weeks.
Whether you’re trying to teach kids where food comes from or you just want a fun, no-fail project to start today, these 15 regrow-from-scraps ideas are so simple anyone can do them. No garden? No problem. All you need is your kitchen counter—and a few leftovers.
Green Onions
Ever thought those leftover green onion stubs could sprout into fresh, new shoots? Simply place the white ends, with roots intact, in a glass of water. Within days, you’ll spot green shoots reaching for the sky.
Change the water every few days to keep them thriving. Snip off what you need and watch them regrow. It’s a perpetual supply of onions at your fingertips, perfect for garnishing meals or adding to salads.
Green onions are not only flavorful but also pack a punch of nutrients. Enjoy a fresh garnish straight from your kitchen.
Romaine Lettuce
A forgotten base of romaine can sprout to life in just water. Place the base in a shallow dish of water, and in a week, new leaves will emerge.
Romaine is a hearty lettuce with a crisp texture, making your salads both nutritious and delightful. Refresh the water every couple of days to encourage growth.
Not only does this practice reduce waste, but it also provides a constant supply of greens. Enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own salad toppings with minimal effort. Who knew salad could be so self-sustaining?
Celery
Transform a leftover celery base into a new plant. Sit it in a shallow bowl with a bit of water and watch the center sprout.
You’ll see new stems and leaves before long. Celery adds a lovely crunch to your dishes, and regrowing it makes it even more rewarding.
Changing the water regularly is key to healthy growth. It’s like having a mini garden on your windowsill, offering fresh celery whenever needed. A simple, sustainable way to keep your kitchen stocked with greens.
Basil
Basil is not just for pesto; it’s also a kitchen ally for regrowth. Take a few stems and place them in water, and you’ll notice roots forming.
Once rooted, pot them in soil for a continuous supply of aromatic leaves. Basil loves sunlight, so a sunny spot will do wonders.
Whether in pasta or as a garnish, fresh basil makes a difference. Growing your own ensures that you have this fragrant herb at hand, ready to elevate your dishes with its unique flavor.
Carrot Tops
Carrot tops may not produce new carrots, but they can grow lush greens. Simply place the top in a shallow dish of water.
Within days, vibrant leaves will appear, perfect for soups and salads. It’s a fun way to repurpose scraps and enjoy some greenery.
The greens are not only edible but packed with nutrients. A small effort yields a rewarding visual and culinary addition to your meals. A kitchen hack that’s both eco-friendly and delightful to witness.
Garlic
Forgotten garlic cloves can spring back to life with ease. Place a clove in a dish of water, and new shoots will emerge.
These green tops are delicious and can be used just like chives. It’s a simple way to enjoy a fresh taste without planting a full bulb.
The process is quick, and you’ll find satisfaction in seeing the transformation. Garlic’s pungent flavor is a kitchen staple, and this easy method ensures you never run out. Just a clove and water can work wonders.
Potatoes
Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they can be the start of a new plant. Cut a potato in half, ensuring each piece has eyes, and place it in water.
Soon, sprouts will appear, ready for planting. This is an engaging way to learn about plant growth and have fun in the kitchen.
With time, these sprouts can grow into full potato plants. It’s a cycle that ends with a delicious harvest, all started from a simple kitchen scrap.
Pineapple Tops
The top of a pineapple holds the key to growing a new plant. Twist it off and place it in water.
Roots will start to form, and soon you can plant it in soil. This tropical endeavor is a conversation starter in any kitchen.
While it takes time, the process is fascinating and rewarding. Who wouldn’t want a piece of the tropics growing at home? It’s a unique way to recycle and enjoy a little slice of paradise.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a favorite in many Asian cuisines, and it’s easy to regrow. Place the stalks in water and watch the roots develop.
Once rooted, transfer them to a pot for ongoing growth. It’s a fragrant addition to your culinary adventures.
Fresh lemongrass is far superior to store-bought. This method ensures a constant supply, with minimal effort. A delightful way to elevate your dishes.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes offer more than their delightful taste; they can regrow with ease. Cut in half and place partially submerged in water.
Soon, vines will appear, offering a lovely cascade of greenery. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy both the taste and aesthetics of this root.
This process is simple, bringing a touch of nature indoors. Watching them grow is as satisfying as eating them. A treat for the eyes and the palate.
Avocado Pits
An avocado pit can transform into a beautiful plant with patience. Suspend it over water using toothpicks and watch roots and stems emerge.
Though it takes time, the lush plant is worth the wait. It’s an exciting project for both adults and kids alike.
Not only does it recycle waste, but it also brings a tropical feel to your space. A dash of patience leads to a refreshing touch of nature indoors.
Leeks
Leeks can continue to grow with just a bit of water. Place the bulb end in a jar and let nature do the rest.
New green shoots will emerge, ready to flavor your favorite dishes. It’s an economical way to keep this ingredient on hand.
Regularly changing the water ensures healthy growth. Enjoy the convenience of having leeks at your fingertips, anytime.
Turnips
Turnips might not be the first vegetable you think of for regrowth, but their tops can sprout greens effortlessly.
Just place the tops in a shallow dish with water, and vibrant greens will follow. It’s a nifty way to enjoy turnips beyond just their roots.
These greens are a tasty addition to your culinary repertoire, offering both nutrition and flavor. A simple act of regrowth adds variety to your meals.
Mint
Mint is a breeze to regrow, making it a favorite for many herb lovers. Simply place cuttings in water and watch roots sprout.
Transplanting them to soil ensures a continual supply of this fragrant herb. Its refreshing taste brightens up any dish or drink.
With mint at your disposal, your culinary creations will always have a touch of freshness. A simple, enjoyable way to spice up your kitchen routine.
Beet Tops
Beet tops don’t just look pretty; they can be a culinary delight. Place the tops in water and watch vibrant greens unfold.
These leaves are packed with nutrients, perfect for salads and smoothies. A simple trick to make the most of what might otherwise go to waste.
It’s a colorful addition to your kitchen garden. Watching them grow is as satisfying as tasting them—an eco-friendly practice with delicious rewards.