There is a joy to growing edible plants that goes beyond freshness, good flavor and knowing where your
food comes from. Tending to plants, especially those that provide food reconnects us to nature in a way
that is very satisfying. The sentiment may sound lofty but the practice is very simple particularly when
the plants are herbs.
Why Grow Herbs
Herbs are incredibly easy to care for. Most just need plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil and water.
In addition to being attractive herbs offer fragrance, flavor, and in some cases health benefits. Have you
checked the price of herbs lately? You can purchase a pot of live herbs to grow for the same cost as a
bundle of cut herbs at the store and have a fresh supply at your fingertips.
Why Grow Herbs Indoors
So all this sounds good, right? But why grow herbs indoors? My answer to this question is, “Because you
can.” Don’t let cold weather or lack of a garden keep you from growing herbs. A sunny window lined with
herbs or even a single pot of rosemary will liven up your home and help satisfy your need to “get to
growing” when the garden is dormant.
How to Grow Herbs Indoors
Some herbs are better suited for growing indoors than others. Rosemary, scented geraniums, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, mint and chives are good candidates for your indoor herb garden.
Whichever herb you’re dealing with, you’ll want to make sure that it gets plenty of light – but not direct sunlight. And when it comes to water, keep your plants consistently moist. You never want to over water or let the soil dry out.
You’ll find that it’s not necessary to fertilize as much when the days become shorter. Unless of course you are growing them under a grow light and they still think it’s summer.
One of the hardest things on herbs in our homes is the hot, dry air. So you might try growing them in a place that has higher humidity, like the kitchen or bathroom.
Now if they begin to get a little leggy and out of hand, just prune them back. The more you harvest, the more the plants will produce.
If you have a problem with pests, I recommend you use an insecticidal soap. It is effective and safe. And this is something to keep in mind if you’re planning on using your herbs to spice up some of your favorite recipes.
Windowsill Herb Garden
These head-shaped containers are a fun way to display your herbs. I found these at a local store and similar planters are easy to find online.
Add some gravel to the bottom of the planter for drainage and then fill halfway full with potting soil.
Remove the herbs from their nursery pot and plant.
Fill in with soil, tamping down to firm and water.
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