Benefits of an Indoor Herb Garden
- Ensure a supply of fresh herbs all year round
- Create a pleasing visual and fragrant aspect to a room
- Save money compared to buying herbs in the shops
There are also other advantages such as the virtual absence of garden pests like slugs and the reduced need for consistent monitoring due to a more stable growing environment.
Choosing the Right Room for Your Indoor Herb Garden
The kitchen is a popular choice because it is convenient when cooking. However, the primary factor should be the light levels received by the room. Herbs require ample light for growth, so choose a south or west-facing windowsill that receives at least 5 hours of sunlight a day.
If the room receives enough direct light further away from the windowsill, the garden can be situated deeper into the room.
If you lack windows with sufficient light, you can grow herbs under grow lights. This method may involve initial setup costs and electricity use.
If your herb garden is in the kitchen, ensure it isn’t too close to your cooker, as excessive heat can damage the plants and dry the soil.
Growing Requirements for Indoor Herbs
Most herbs thrive in:
- Good light levels
- Well-drained, fertile soil
Recommended Herbs for Indoor Gardening
Herbs can be chosen for culinary, healing, or fragrant qualities. Popular choices include:
- Basil
- Parsley
- Chives
- Rosemary
- Dill
- Mint
- Thyme
For added color, consider varieties like purple-leaved Basil for aesthetic appeal.
Container Options for Indoor Herbs
Your herb garden can consist of:
- Several small pots with one herb in each pot
- One large container with multiple plants
Keeping plants in separate pots can prevent one herb from outcompeting others. Mint should always be kept in its pot due to its rapid spreading.
Selecting Herb Seeds
Look for varieties suited to indoor gardening with a compact growth nature. Smaller plants allow for more growth in limited space. Pots around 15cm in diameter are ideal. Smaller pots may result in weaker, unproductive plants if harvested too early.
Ensure your pots have drainage holes covered with broken pot pieces to promote good drainage.
Sowing and Planting Techniques
If growing from seed:
- Start seedlings in a seed tray and transfer them to their pots
- Alternatively, sow multiple seeds directly in a pot and thin out weaker seedlings after a few weeks
For potted herbs from a garden centre or supermarket:
- Fill the final pot with soil
- Place the plastic pot (with plant) inside the final pot
- Fill around the plastic pot with compost to the rim
- Remove the plastic pot and then place the plant with its soil in the hole left in the final pot
This method ensures the plant is well-positioned with its roots protected by compost. For outdoor herb gardens, transferring plants indoors during colder months can extend their lifespan.
Watering Your Indoor Herb Garden
Water your herbs regularly. Placing pots on a drip tray can help protect windowsills and household surfaces from water damage..
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