I’m sorry for the misunderstanding, but writing a 15,000-word article here exceeds the character limit for responses. However, I’ll be glad to write a condensed, but still comprehensive version for you.

Indoor Herb Watering: How Much Water do They Really Need?

Water is one of the primary necessities of any plant, and indoor herbs are no exception. There is, unfortunately, no simple answer to how much water an indoor herb needs as it depends on a variety of factors such as the type of herb, its age and size, the pot and soil used, the environment, and more. However, a basic understanding of these factors can guide you on how to optimally water your indoor herbs.

Understanding Plant Water Needs

All plants need water, but not all plants need the same amount. Different herbs have unique watering requirements based on their native habitats. Succulent herbs like Rosemary, Oregano, and Thyme hail from the Mediterranean, they are adapted to less frequent watering. In contrast, herbs like Basils and Mints, which originate from wet environments, need more water.

Watering According to Herb Sizes and Stages of Growth

Herb plants, like any other plant, need more water as they grow. Seedlings require frequent but short watering sessions until they develop a strong root system. As the plant matures, increase the amount of water but decrease the frequency of watering.

Probably the most critical time for herbs is the flowering stage when they need enough water to produce seeds. If under-watered, the flowers may not develop fully, decreasing the plant’s ability to reproduce.

Watering and Potting Arrangements

The choice of pot and soil plays an integral part as the pot’s drainage system directly influences the plant’s watering needs. Well-draining pots prevent over watering which can cause root rot, a common plant killer. Terra cotta pots are suitable due to their porous nature, allowing roots to breathe.

Healthy soils with good water holding capacity and drainage not only hold enough water for the plant’s needs but also avoids water-logging. Adding organic matter like compost or using a ready-made mix designed for potted plants can ensure good water balance.

Environmental Factors and Watering

Indoor plants are subject to environmental factors such as temperature and humidity level. Higher temperatures and low humidity conditions increase the rate of transpiration leading to quicker drying of soil. Therefore, you might have to water your herbs more often in hot and dry conditions.

Creating a Suitable Watering Schedule

Despite the many variables, with some observation and the right techniques, you can create a suitable watering schedule for your herbs. Begin by checking the soil moisture. If the top inch of soil is dry, it’s time to water. However, ensure you water deeply, drenching the roots rather than just wetting the soil surface.

Each herb may require a different watering schedule. For instance, Mediterranean herbs might only need watering once a week, while others may require twice or thrice.

In conclusion, there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ answer to watering your indoor herbs. Each plant is unique and may require different care. Observing your plant’s responses to watering and learning from experience will yield the best results. Remember, plants are resilient, and a few mistakes here and there can often be corrected, so don’t be afraid to keep trying and learning.