Are you tired of constantly buying expensive herbs from the grocery store every time you want to add some flavor to your meals? If so, why not consider starting your own indoor herb garden?
Not only is it a cost-effective way to have access to a variety of herbs year-round, but it’s also a rewarding and enjoyable hobby that can bring a little touch of nature into your home.
The truth is, under the right conditions you can grow herbs both indoors and outdoors to extend the growing season. I love to have an herb garden outdoors in the warmer months, but when it’s cooler, being able to grow some herbs right on your windowsill at any time of year can be really handy.
How nice would it be to grow your favorite herbs right on the window sill over your kitchen sink? It’s a great way to beat those winter blues!
There are so many herbs to pick from, though. How do you know which ones can grow indoors well? Well, let’s talk about which herbs are a good option for indoors.
Herbs you can grow Indoors
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The following herbs are excellent choices for indoor herb growing:
- Thyme
- Mint
- Rosemary
- Chives
- Sage
- Oregano
- Lemon Balm
- Parsley
- Cilantro
- Bay Laurel
Selecting the Right Herbs
it’s crucial to choose the right herbs that will thrive in an indoor environment. While many herbs can be grown indoors, some are better suited to this setting than others. Consider starting with perennial herbs such as mint, parsley, and chives, as these are relatively low-maintenance and can provide you with fresh flavors year-round.
You can find herb starter plants or seeds at your local garden center or nursery, or even propagate them from cuttings if you have access to outdoor plants. Propagate your herbs from your outdoor garden before the cold temperatures appear to enjoy your best herbs all year long!
Creating the Ideal Growing Environment
Creating the perfect environment for your indoor herb garden is essential for ensuring the health and vitality of your plants. Herbs thrive in a sunny location, so be sure to place your herb garden near a south-facing or west-facing window where they can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day.
You want to find the brightest window in your home where they will get enough light and grow your pots of herbs there. If you don’t have access to a sunny windowsill, don’t worry—supplemental LED grow lights can provide your herbs with the light they need to flourish. I’m a fan of this supplemental light for indoor growing.
But, if you have a window you can place them at, remember, a windowsill herb garden can look so lovely as part of your home decor!
In addition to adequate lighting, proper drainage is also critical for the success of your indoor herb garden. Make sure your pots have drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom, which can lead to root rot and other moisture-related issues.
Terra cotta or clay pots are ideal choices for indoor herb gardening, as they allow for better airflow and help regulate soil moisture levels. Good drainage is an absolute must for your indoor herbs to be a success.
What to plant your Herbs in
Picking the right pots for your herbs is super important. For an indoor garden it’s better to plant each herb in a separate pot. Look for pots that let water drain out so your herbs don’t get too wet.
Terra cotta pots are great because they let air in and keep moisture balanced. You can also use ceramic or plastic pots as long as they have holes in the bottom. Get creative with stuff you already have like jars or cans.
Just make sure the pot is big enough for your herbs to grow well. With the right pots, your indoor herb garden will look awesome and keep your kitchen smelling fresh!
Caring for Your Herbs
Proper care and maintenance are essential for keeping your indoor herb garden thriving. Water your plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Harvesting your herbs regularly not only encourages new growth but also ensures that your plants remain healthy and productive. When harvesting, snip the leaves or stems from the plant, leaving some behind to promote regrowth. Freshly harvested herbs can be used to add flavor and aroma to a wide range of dishes, from soups and salads to sauces and marinades.
Grow Your Favorite Fresh Herbs all Year Long
growing your own herb plants indoors is not only a practical way to ensure a constant supply of fresh flavors but also a fulfilling and rewarding hobby that can bring joy and beauty to your home.
By selecting the right herbs, creating an ideal growing environment, and providing proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of flavorful herbs year-round, right in your own kitchen. What could be better than enjoying a meal in the winter months with fresh, culinary herbs?
So why not start your indoor herb garden today and add another way to your life that you can be more self-sufficient?
With a little time, effort, and patience, you’ll soon be enjoying the taste of freshly harvested herbs in your favorite dishes and salad dressings, knowing that they were grown with love and care in your very own indoor garden. A diy herb garden is a great way to have some indoor plants with a purpose.
